GravityWorks™ Water Filter System

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Platypus

GravityWorks™ Water Filter System

Regular price $134.95
Regular price Sale price $134.95
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High-capacity, pump-free water filtration for groups and basecamps.
  • No pumping: Just fill the dirty reservoir, hang it, and let gravity do the hard work—yep, filtering water can be as easy as fill, hang, relax.
  • Fast: Filters up to 1.75 liters per minute; microfilter lifetime up to 1,500 liters of water.
  • Effective: Every microfilter is individually tested to ensure it meets all EPA & NSF guidelines for the removal of 99.9999% of bacteria and 99.9% of protozoa*.
  • Light & Compact: System weighs 11.5 oz. (326 g) and stows smaller than most 1L bottles.
  • Group-ready: 8 or 12 liter (4.0L/6.0L filtered + 4.0L/6.0L unfiltered) total capacity easily supplies water for groups.
  • Field-cleanable: Microfilter can be easily backflushed in 4 seconds to maintain filter performance.
  • Hollow Fiber Advantage: Hundreds of tiny, hollow fibers enable the microfilter to filter water faster than traditional filter media.
  • Easy collecting & dispensing: Collecting water is easy—simply open the top, scoop water, and close; control delivery of filtered water with hose shutoff clamp.

    Comes with: Clean reservoir (4.0L or 6.0L), Dirty reservoir (4.0L or 6.0L), Hollow Fiber microfilter, hoses, shutoff clamp, and storage sack.

    *This includes Giardia, Cryptosporidium, E. coli, Salmonella and V. cholerae.

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WARNING:
Filtering up to 1.75 liters a minute without any pumping, the high-capacity GravityWorks Water Filter System filter is one of the easiest and fastest ways to get filtered water in the backcountry. With two different sizes—6.0L & 4.0L—the GravityWorks is ideal for bigger backpacking groups or basecamps. Offering an 8 or 12 liter total capacity, either model easily supplies filtered water for drinking, washing up, cooking, and cleaning. Simplify your water collection with the GravityWorks system and spend more time enjoying your group.
6.0 L 4.0 L
Weight 12.3 oz. (349 g) 11.5 oz. (326 g)
Dimensions 19.5 x 10 in (49 x 26 cm) 9.5 x 3.25 in (24 x 8 cm)
Effective Against Bacteria Yes Yes
Effective Against Chemicals/Toxins No No
Effective Against Particulate Yes Yes
Effective Against Protozoa Yes Yes
Effective Against Viruses No No
Filter Media Hollow Fiber Hollow Fiber
Filter Pore Size (Microns) 0.2 0.2
Flow 1.75 L/min 1.75 L/min
Cartridge Life 1,500 Liters 1,500 Liters
Field Cleanable Yes Yes
Water Bottle Adapter No No
Cartridge Replacement Indicator No No
Materials Polyethylene Polyethylene
Country of Origin Made in USA of US and Imported Materials Made in USA of US and Imported Materials
SKU 14241 14240

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How often should I backflush my GravityWorks filter cartridge?

Depending on the water clarity/quality, backflush a ¼ liter of water for every 6 liters filtered.

Do any of your products contain BPA, BPS, phthalates, or use polycarbonate?

No. All Platypus hydration products are 100% BPA-, BPS- and phthalate-free, and do not use polycarbonate.

Why is backflushing so important with the GravityWorks™ filter?

Backflushing regularly maintains optimal performance of the filter cartridge. This is especially true when filtering murky or very silty water. Backflushing rinses out particulate that collects on the outside of the Hollow Fiber filter media. Infrequent backflushing makes it more difficult to restore the filter’s flow rate.Based on results from our in-house water lab, we recommend backflushing a ¼ liter of water for every 6L filtered; this largely depends on the water clarify/quality. Our lab has found that with frequent backflushing, you can expect better maintenance of flow performance and longer life from your filter cartridge.

Is it okay to filter tea-colored water?

Tea-colored water typically has a high concentration of decaying vegetation adjacent to, or in, a water source, resulting in a variety of organic acids. These acids, and the accompanying water conditions, are very hard on ALL types of water filters. Get your water elsewhere if you can.

However, if no alternatives exist, we recommend backflushing/cleaning your filter more frequently, even after each use. This will help minimize the clogging of the filter.

Will the GravityWorks™ water filter remove unpleasant tastes?

No. Hollow fiber filter media does not remove tastes from water. However, you can improve taste by using an additional carbon filter, such as the GravityWorks™ Carbon Element, which helps absorb many of the unwanted flavors commonly found in backcountry water.

How do I disinfect my Platypus filtration system?

To disinfect your Platypus filtration system, fill it with a solution of unscented household bleach and water, using a concentration of 2-5 drops per liter of water. Close and swirl for 10 seconds. Leave filled overnight.

Filter solution through any filters and/or hoses, then rinse system (including filters and hoses) three times with hot water. Let air dry.

Note: for an eco-friendlier option, use a chlorine-free, hydrogen peroxide-based bleach alternative.

Are there any issues with using a GravityWorks™ filter in freezing conditions?

A used GravityWorks™ filter will have wet Hollow Fiber filter media, which can freeze and break the fibers of the filter media (permanently damaging the filter). Therefore, it is important to prevent Hollow Fiber filters from freezing.

If you are traveling in areas where you are expecting freezing or near-freezing temperatures, we recommend carrying or stowing the filter cartridge near your body (e.g., in a chest pocket) and bringing the filter cartridge with you into your tent, or even your sleeping bag. (Be sure to put the filter cartridge in a watertight bag to prevent leaks.)

If you think your filter may have been damaged by freezing, perform a filter integrity test before the next use (see instructions for your filter product). We recommend carrying a replacement filter as a backup in case of a failed integrity test.

Do I need to do anything if my filter takes a hard drop?

Hollow Fiber filters can be sensitive to hard drops. Any drops from heights over 5 feet (1.5 m) and direct drops onto cement or rocks should be avoided with GravityWorks™ filters.

If you think your filter may have been damaged from a drop, perform a filter integrity test before the next use (see instructions for your filter product). We recommend carrying a replacement filter as a backup in case of a failed integrity test.

Note: do not remove the protective bumpers on the GravityWorks filters.

Is there a way to filter water directly into my reservoir without removing it from my pack?

Yes there is! The Big Zip™ EVO Filter Connector Kit is a nifty accessory that allows you to filter directly from your GravityWorks™ into your Big Zip EVO without ever having to remove your reservoir from your pack.

To do so, you first need to remove your drink tube from your reservoir via the quick-disconnect. Then, plug the connection point on the connector kit's hose directly into the quick-disconnect port (you will hear a click). Next, attach the connector kit's hose to the base of your GravityWorks filter cartridge. Let gravity do the rest—you’re now on your way to clean, taste-free hydration.

Watch this video for a step-by-step guide on how to use this product.

The zipper tracks on my reservoir are hard to close. Can I make it easier?

Yes. Periodically adding a little Vaseline to the tracks will keep them supple and easy to close. Wipe away any excess Vaseline. In the field, a little lip balm or water can do the trick.

Can I get small replacement parts for my filter products?

Many replacement parts can be purchased directly from us online on our Accessories page or from one of our retailers. If you cannot find what you’re looking for, our customer support team can assist you:

For customers outside North America, please consult our International Distributor listings.

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No Hassle Returns

We accept returns within 30 days of purchase. All returned items must be in new condition. Please be sure no dirt, grass or pet hair is on the item you are returning. Learn More

We Believe in What We Build

At Platypus, we take pride in engineering the highest-quality outdoor gear available, and we stand behind everything we make. Platypus gear is built to be exceptionally durable and easily repaired. And we back it up with the best service in the industry, all to keep your gear performing for you—and out of landfills. Visit our Platypus warranty page for more info.

Portrait of our repair shop crew

Overall rating: 4.393617 / 5 from 188 reviews.

AI Generated Review Summary

The GravityWorks™ Water Filter System is highly regarded for its efficient filtration, large capacity, and ease of use, making it ideal for backpacking and bike touring. Customers appreciate its clean reservoir and design, though some have mixed opinions on the bottle size and flow rate.

Summary topics

  • Filter Efficiency: 41%
  • Trip Suitability: 5%
  • Design Appeal: 7%
  • Capacity Adequacy: 4%
  • System Ease of Use: 23%

Review topics: ["fit","weight","bag","problem","performance","quality","design","works","construction","capacity","volume","filter","instructions","equipment","lock","water","customer service","results","replacement","system","neck","use","flow","reservoir","buy","zippers","trips","liter","backflushing","bottle"].

Review highlights

  • "Simple setup, great labeling, and great quality fittings and filter."Chris
  • "AND it gives us great carrying capacity for dry camping when there's no nearby water source (4 liter bags)."G.S.
  • "Be sure to backwash often with clean water, and back in camp and it will continue to flow very fast."Scott R.

Reviews

Nice and reliable.

"I have used these in hunting camps in Colorado for the last 5 years. Our outfit, Halfmoon Packing and Outfitting spares no money when it comes to Backcountry packing and these units never fail. Now I am adding this to our home water inventory."

Jerry G. (5/5)

Haven't had a chance to

"Haven't had a chance to use yet but looking forward to taking it with me on hiking trips to hydrate myself and the dogs! Love that it comes with two reservoirs to start."

Aiyana O. (5/5)

Perfect tool

"Perfect tool"

Marty W. (5/5)

Awesome filter for groups and

"Awesome filter for groups and super easy to back flush. I love seeing the dirty water transition into the clean bag. I would 100% recommend."

Tory B. (5/5)

Best filter I've ever used

"I've used a GravityWorks filter for years, Maybe 10 years or so. I couldn't say enough about this filter, its one of the best back country equipment purchases I've made. Fast, easy to use, great for 2 or more people. I've used in on day hikes to supply a dozen people. If I lost it, I would buy a replacement the next day. The only weakness is the zip seal on the dirty water bag. It just doesn't work. But it turns out this is relatively unimportant."

scott c. (5/5)

Absolutely love the gravity works

"Absolutely love the gravity works filter. 5 stars. It works so smoothly, easy to operate, handle and store. It’s fast too. It’s an absolute necessity for me anywhere I go and gives me peace of mind of having basically unlimited water on any trip. I can’t go without it. My only negative is the zip seal on the dirty water bag is very easy to come apart and sometimes it’s very hard to come across fresh water source. So once I fill up the bag I wish it would hold my precious water more securely. I have definitely lost a few liters of very hard earned fresh water because of the seal coming loose so easily and spilling out. You just have to be careful with it until it all goes into your more secure clean bag. Other than that, it’s is damn near perfect! Highly recommend."

Amir A. (5/5)

Well worth the purchase

"I have used a friends for the weekend and it worked Great, so i bought one for myself the 4L bages it filtered the water in less then 5 min,, ,"

Danny W. (5/5)

Love the System--Hate the Dirty Water Bag Zipper

"I have been using my GravityWorks for almost 15 years on hundreds of miles of backpacking trips. Eventually needed a replacement filter that is still going strong. I drink scads of water and the high capacity and ease of filtering are a lifesaver for me. The only complaint, and it is actually a real pain, is the supposedly resealable zipper on the dirty water bag. It is virtually uncloseable. I have learned to deal with it, and even sometimes schlep a reservoir full of dirty water with the top gaping open making sure not to spill any. I came to the site seeing if the newer version had been improved and would have bought a new dirty water bag if available, but even today reviewers who bought the system this year are still writing about this flaw. A resealable zip lock that is actually resealable doesn't seem to me like it should be such an engineering challenge that Cascade Designs shouldn't be able to come up with a solution after all these years."

Mark W. (4/5)

Super convenient for family backpacking.

"Super convenient for family backpacking. Easy to use and reliable. I am very happy with the performance of my gravity filter system."

Erin B. (5/5)

Super easy. Was a hit on our trip whwn others had pumps

"This is the easiest and quickest water filtration system I've used. Four of us biked to Goldmyer Hotsprings for a few days and this kept all of our water bottles filled and cooking was a breeze with this easy system of using gravity."

David H. (5/5)

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