Water for Emergencies and Survival

The Outback portable water purification bucket system eliminates harmful bacteria and viruses, including E.coli, Cholera, Hepatitis and Polio. The Outback system incorporates a Purifying Filter which can remove viruses - achieving greater than 4 log (99.99%) virus reduction rate. See Microbiological Test Results here and learn more about how the Outback works.

To use, simply pour water into the upper chamber through The Outback’s Net Filter to remove large particles of sediment and debris. The Outback system can deliver up to 24 gallons of purified water per day. Learn more about each stage of the Outback Emergency Water Filter.

Even if an earthquake-affected area (or any type of disaster for that matter) is hundreds of miles away, you will probably still feel the effects in some way.

Damage on a single interstate freeway could thwart or at least slow down shipping supply lines and cause scarcity of many commodities. We can’t all make a run for Florida and North Dakota (the parts of the country with the fewest earthquakes), but we can and should do things to prepare no matter where we live.

FEMA recommends every household create a 72-hour emergency supply kit that includes a three-day supply of food, water and other essentials. See recommended 72-hour kit items below.

Yes, the Outback Gravity Water Filter System can produce an adequate amount of drinking water for a single user or a family or group of four people or more.

The Outback system contains one of each:

• • Net Filter removes large particles.
  • Sleeve Filter removes microparticles.
  • Purifying Filter eliminates bacteria, cysts, and viruses.
  • Refining Filter removes chemicals and contaminants for improved taste.

Yes, replacement filters are available for the Outback system here.

Yes, the Outback System and filter replacement kits come with the instructions about how to assemble and use the product.

No, It takes less than five minutes from start to finish to complete the Outback assembly process. Check out the instructional video on our YouTube channel.

It is always best to use water from a fresh water source. Typical water supplies that are used with the Outback are streams, creeks, rivers, ponds and lakes. Additional water sources may be rainwater collection, water heaters, swimming pools, spas, fresh water from the toilet and untreated stored water. Note that the chemicals in swimming pool/spa water will lessen the life of the filters, and filters will need to be replaced earlier.

The Outback has a daily production rate of 20-24 gallons per day.

Yes, it is as simple as grabbing the handle and going. In the event you're forced to leave your home, we wanted to design a system that would be easy to throw in the car. The Outback emergency water purifier can also act as a source of additional storage for such items as insurance papers, extra medication, power bars. flashlight, matches etc.

Both its' effectiveness and its true portability differentiate the Outback from other 'emergency' systems. From conception, our goal was to design a utilitarian product that would function reliably in the event of an emergency or when used in undeveloped locations. The Outback was not designed to be an 'attractive kitchen appliance' - but rather a durable, portable, affordable, simple water purification system -- effective in the removal of waterborne microorganisms and chemicals. Many of the water treatment products and systems currently sold as "Emergency Preparedness Systems" or as systems to be used in undeveloped areas, were never intended for such use and/or work poorly in those applications.

Yes, with the high-capacity multimedia Outback post filters any 'off' tastes or odors are removed before the water enters the lower chamber, ensuring the water is clean and has a pleasant taste.

There are four very separate and very important stages of filtration used in the Outback system.  

First, the Net Filter removes large particles and debris from the water. It fits over the upper bucket of the Outback.

Second, the Sleeve Filter removes microparticles. This Sleeve Filter fits over the filter in the upper bucket. This soft sleeve removes finer particles such as sand and sediment.

Third, the Purifying Filter eliminates bacteria, cysts, and viruses. This Purifying Filter installed in the upper bucket achieves greater than 4 log (99.99%) virus reduction rate. The Outback Emergency Water System is one of the few gravity bucket systems that can eliminate harmful waterborne microbes, including E.coli, Cholera, Hepatitis and Polio.

Finally, the Refining Filter removes chemicals and contaminants. This Refining Filter is installed in the lower bucket and helps to improve the taste of your drinking water. This filter removes a multitude of chemicals, pesticides, organic contaminants, as well as odors and 'off tastes'.

Microbiological test results for contaminant removal available here.

A reduction in water flow is generally the easiest method of determining when the filters need to be changed. Filters should be replaced at 1,800 gallons. The pre-filter net and sleeve can be washed and reused and by keeping both items clean or replacing them on a regular basis the recommendation should work for any standard user.

We recommend using a settling bucket to pour the clearest possible water possible into the Outback, always using the Net Filter. Following these suggestions will help you extend the life of your filters as long as possible.

The Outback "Purifying Filter" is designed to effectively eliminate bacteria, cysts, and viruses from water. This advanced filter utilizes nano filtration, a highly efficient method that captures microorganisms through electrostatic charge. The filter media consists of a fibrous material with an electrostatic charge, attracting and adsorbing particles carrying an opposite charge.

In water, most particles, including pathogens, are electronegative. Therefore, the electropositive filter media is remarkably effective in attracting and retaining these electronegative particles. The fibrous filter media is composed of small filters, each with a diameter of two nanometers, dispersed throughout a matrix of cellulose, polymetric micro glass fibers with a pore size of 2 microns.

With an electro-positive charge, the Outback's "Purifying Filter" material is capable of removing waterborne pathogens. A single layer of this media can retain over 99% of 0.025-micron size MS2 viruses, providing an absolute rating of 0.03 microns. To optimize performance, the fibrous filter media is pleated, creating a high surface area filter that allows for high flow rates with minimal pressure drop. Additionally, it can be fashioned into a multilayer depth filter, enabling the filtration of virus-sized particles with a retention value exceeding 6 (LTR) log or >99.9999%.

Microbiological test results for contaminant removal available here.

The Outback buckets are made from food grade High Density Polyethylene plastic (HDPE).

The difference between the three most common pathogenic (capable of causing disease) microorganisms are: 

Bacteria: single celled organisms which lack well defined nuclear membranes and other specialized functional cell parts and reproduce by cell division or spores. Bacteria may be free living organisms or parasites. Bacteria cells range from 1 – 10 microns in length and 0.2 – 1 micron in width.

Cyst: a capsule or protective sac produced about themselves by many protozoan, as well as some bacteria and algae as preparation for entering a resting or a specialized reproductive stage. Generally, 2 - 50 micron in diameter. 

Virus:  a parasitic infectious microbe, composed almost entirely of nucleic acid, which can cause disease(s) in humans. Viruses can only reproduce within living cells. They are 0.004 – 0.1 microns in size about 100 times smaller than bacteria. Microbiological test results for contaminant removal available here.

A settling bucket is recommended when the untreated water supply contains a large amount of fine silt and sand.   By collecting the untreated water in a bucket and then allowing it to 'sit' for a period of time, sediment, dirt and fine particles will settle to the bottom of the bucket. The clear water can then be poured into the Outback System. This will minimize the amount of debris that is poured into the Outback system and help protect the Outback filter from premature clogging or 'exhaustion'.

Proven performance. To be considered a 'purifier' a water treatment system must effectively remove microorganisms to an EPA standard of 99.9999 % for bacteria, 99.9% for cysts and 99.99% for virus. The Outback's Purifying Filter microbiological test results for contaminant removal are available here.

Yes, the Outback Emergency Water Purifier effectively removes bacteria at a rate greater than 99.9999%.

Yes, all of the Outback Systems effectively remove cysts at a rate of greater than 99.99%, exceeding EPA standards. Microbiological test results for contaminant removal available here.

The Outback Purifying Filter is highly efficient in removing viruses. Utilizing advanced "Nano Filtration" technology, the Outback system effectively eliminates viruses at a rate greater than 99.99%.

Yes, the Outback System uses a mixed blend combination of carbon (multimedia) that is formulated to remove a long list of organic contaminates.

No, the Outback will not remove salt from the water.

It means it has the ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria without destroying the bacteria. For example, a bacteriostatic cartridge will reduce bacterial colonization activity on the filter but will not eliminate it.

Yes, the Outback's Purifying Filter is indeed bacteriostatic. This means that any bacteria captured by the filter cannot reproduce or multiply. This feature is crucial because by preventing bacterial growth, the filter's workload in removing bacteria as water passes through is reduced. Consequently, the lifespan of the filter is prolonged as it is not burdened with excessive bacterial accumulation.

Over the span of two decades, the original Outback Water Purifier System has primarily been supplied to relief organizations for deployment in countries beyond the borders of the United States. These systems have been effectively utilized by various organizations worldwide to facilitate the provision of safe drinking water, even in regions where water sources are contaminated. In 2001, we expanded our offerings to include the current "domestic version" of the Outback, catering to the needs of individuals within the United States.

The Outback is used on a daily basis by some of the largest relief organizations and faith-based groups in the world, as well as by a myriad of individuals and small groups. They all use the Outback as their only method of water treatment. The Outback has also frequently sold as a stand-alone emergency preparedness product due to its reliability, portability, effectiveness, ease of use, and its affordability.

Yes, multiple times. The Outback Systems have been tested multiple times by two different certified third-party independent laboratories located in both the United States and international. The Lab is accredited by NABL for Drinking Water analysis as per ISO/IEC 17025. Test results are available here.

To store the Outback system for more than a week after active use, flush the system with at least two gallons of clear water. Allow the Sleeve Filter and Purifying Filter to dry completely. Discard and replace the Refining Filter. Prior to using after the storage period, clean the Spigot and interior of the Purified Water Container and flush the system with at least two gallons of clear water.  

The Outback has a 2-gallon upper and 5 gallon lower container. Unassembled, the system measures 12” x 12” X 15”. Assembled the Outback measures 12” x 12” x 24”.

When not in use, the Outback System weighs 6 pounds and 45-48 pounds when the lower 5 gallon container is full.

The Outback System and filters have an indefinite shelf life if filters are left in original packaging, remain stored inside the Outback and the systems is not stored for long period of time in direct sunlight. Once the filters have been used, we recommend throwing them away to avoid the risk of bacteria increasing during storage.

The Outback filters were purposely designed so that they could not be cleaned. A great concern is that cleaning a filter that is contaminated with a high percentage of a pathogenic microorganism leaves the individual at high risk of contaminating themselves causing illness.

When it comes to comparing the Outback with other water treatment systems, it is challenging to make direct comparisons. However, extensive research has shown that in emergency situations, simplicity, reliability, and effectiveness are crucial factors in choosing a dependable device, whether it's a stove, water filtration system, or food supply. It is precisely these qualities that have made the Outback the preferred choice for numerous private and government organizations.

In the design of an emergency water system, the goal is to create a solution that can be operated by any member of the family, offering simplicity, effectiveness, and reliability. The Outback System fulfills these requirements exceptionally. This is evidenced by the fact that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, specifically requested the design and provision of a water treatment system that could be easily used by the average American consumer during a disaster, and the Outback was their chosen product.

The Outback's selection by the DHS further validates its ability to meet the critical needs of emergency situations and underscores its reputation as a trusted and effective water treatment system.

The Outback filters are different than a ceramic filter in several ways, both in the way that they handle various contaminants and in their use and lifespan 

VIRUS: The Outback Purifying Filter excels in virus removal, while ceramic filters fall short in this aspect. Unlike ceramic filters, which cannot be utilized in the same manner without rapid depletion, the Outback filter effectively retains its efficacy. This is primarily due to the substantial amount of media housed within the Outback's multi-media cartridge. When it comes to effectively removing viruses, the Outback filter outperforms ceramic filters.

BACTERIA: Most ceramic filters have a bacteria removal rate of 99.99 %, the Outback has a rating of > 99.9999%. The standard Outback filter has a removal rate of 99.99% - which may look the same as the ceramic removal rate however it is tested at a much higher standard than ceramics are tested. The 'real' removal rate is much higher (further discussion about this below). 

DURABILITY:  A ceramic filter is very fragile and if dropped will break, the Outback  Purifying Filter will not break or crack when dropped.  

LONGEVITY: Most ceramic filters contain a carbon core and once the carbon is exhausted the filter no longer has the ability to remove organic matter from the water supply. Exhausted carbon can become a breeding ground for bacteria and actually increase contamination in the water. The Outback uses a large capacity independent multimedia cartridge which provides a much greater capacity for the removal of organic and chemical contamination - separate and apart from the bacteria and/or virus removal filter allowing for replacement of this less expensive filter independently and as needed. 

EFFECTIVENESS: The Outback Survival System is tested using both GTW 1 and GTW 3 test water - challenges for general water filtration and purification systems simulating extreme real-world conditions. Ceramics are tested using distilled water that has been inoculated with a pre-prescribed amount of a specific microorganism. In short, the Outback is passing a much more stringent test protocol than ceramic filters and still out-performing it.

GTW (general tap water) 1 & 3 indicates the characteristics of the water used by a laboratory when it is testing a water treatment system for effectiveness. Most water treatment systems tested never face the rigid specifications of GTW 1 or GTW 3, but rather testing is conducted using distilled water inoculated with a specified microorganism. The Outback Gravity Filtration System is tested against both standards GTW 1 and GTW 3 with GTW 3 offering a much more difficult concoction of contaminates such as levels of pH, temperature variations, turbidity levels, TOC and levels of TDS than GTW 1. In addition, the Outback is cycle tested, which means at pre-determined times during the testing process the testing stops for 48 hours and the system being tested is left to rest with no water passing through the filters. During this period of rest the challenge micro-organism builds up on the filter so that when the testing is resumed does the filter allow a large amount of the micro-organism to migrate through the filter. The Outback showed no such breakthrough.

The filter design of the Outback System have very high hydrophilic properties.

Hydrophilic means the product has the characteristic of absorbing water. Example: Cotton is a hydrophilic fiber. Many filters contain hydrophobic characteristics which repel water. For them to work, there must be a certain amount of pressure to push the water through the filter media. Example: Nylon is a hydrophobic fiber. The Outback filter is hydrophillic.

The Outback needs no chemical additives to remove bacteria, cysts and virus. The standard Outback is very effective in removing bacteria and cysts without the use of any chemical additives.

These terms refer to the approximate size particle, the majority of which will pass through a filter, based upon its rating. The rating is usually in a micron size. A nominal filtration rating is generally interpreted as meaning that 85% of the particles (the size of its rating) will be retained or 'stopped' by the filter. An absolute filtration rating states that 99.9% or essentially all of the particles (larger than a specific micron rating) will be trapped on or within the filter.

Healthy urine is not toxic. However, it contains compounds eliminated by the body as undesirable, and can be irritating to skin and eyes. After suitable processing it is possible to extract potable water from urine. The US Army Field Manuals advise against drinking urine for survival. These guides explain that drinking urine tends to worsen, rather than relieve dehydration due to the salts in it, and that urine should not be consumed in a survival situation, even when there is no other fluid available. In hot weather survival situations where other sources of water are not available, soaking cloth (a shirt for example) in urine and putting it on the head can help cool the body.

Yes, the Outback System is shipped to customers throughout the world.

The Outback System is covered under a normal use one-year warranty.

All of the Outback components are made in the United States except the Net Filter and Sleeve Filter, which are made in Ontario, Canada.

Yes, there is currently a patent on the Outback system.