The MSR MiniWorks EX water filter is a robust, pump-style filter designed for reliable backcountry water purification. Using it is straightforward: simply connect it to a water source and pump to get clean, potable water.
Getting Started with Your MSR MiniWorks EX
Before heading out, familiarize yourself with your filter. The MiniWorks EX is known for its durability and field-maintainable design, making it a popular choice for hikers, campers, and international travelers. It effectively removes bacteria, protozoa, and particulate matter, ensuring safer drinking water from natural sources.
Components Overview
Your MSR MiniWorks EX typically includes:
- Filter housing
- Pump handle
- Ceramic/carbon filter element
- Input hose with a prefilter screen
- Output hose (optional, or it can attach directly to a bottle)
- Scrub pad for cleaning the ceramic element
- Storage bag
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Your MiniWorks EX
Follow these steps to effectively filter water using your MSR MiniWorks EX:
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Prepare Your Collection Container:
- Ensure your clean water bottle or reservoir is ready.
- The MiniWorks EX is versatile: it can be attached directly to any standard wide-mouth bottle for convenient filtering into the container, or you can use its output hose.
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Attach the Input Hose:
- Connect the input hose firmly to the filter's intake port.
- Ensure the prefilter screen is attached to the other end of the input hose. This screen helps protect the main filter element from larger debris like leaves and sediment, prolonging its life.
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Position the Input Hose:
- Place the prefilter end of the input hose into your untreated water source. Submerge it completely, ensuring it doesn't touch the bottom where heavy sediment might be stirred up. If possible, draw water from the clearest part of the source.
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Connect to Your Output Container:
- If filtering directly into a bottle, screw the filter's base firmly onto the bottle's opening.
- If using an output hose, attach it to the nipple inside the filter base and direct the flow into your clean container.
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Begin Pumping:
- Hold the filter steady and begin pumping the handle with a smooth, consistent rhythm.
- Continue pumping until water begins to flow through the filter and into your clean container. It might take a few pumps for water to prime the filter and start flowing steadily.
- Pump slowly and steadily to avoid over-pressurizing the filter, which can reduce its lifespan.
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Filter Sufficient Water:
- Continue pumping until you have collected the desired amount of clean water.
- Monitor the flow rate; a decrease in flow often indicates it's time for maintenance.
Post-Use Care and Maintenance
Proper care extends the life and efficiency of your MiniWorks EX.
Field Cleaning
- Brush the Ceramic Element: When the flow rate slows significantly, unscrew the filter housing and remove the ceramic element. Use the provided scrub pad (or a similar non-abrasive pad) to gently brush off the accumulated contaminants from the ceramic surface under a stream of water (preferably filtered, if available). Brush until the ceramic appears white again.
- Do not use soap or harsh chemicals.
Backflushing (Rinsing)
While the MiniWorks EX doesn't typically require aggressive backflushing in the same way some hollow fiber filters do, you can flush it with clean water to help clear any internal debris. Some users pump a small amount of clean water back through the filter in reverse (from the output side), but simply cleaning the ceramic element is usually sufficient for restoring flow.
Long-Term Storage
- Disassemble and Clean: Thoroughly clean the ceramic element and all components.
- Air Dry: Allow all parts to air dry completely to prevent mold or mildew growth.
- Store Properly: Reassemble the filter or store components in a clean, dry place, ideally in its original bag or a breathable container, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Important: Never allow the filter to freeze while wet, as this can damage the ceramic element and compromise its effectiveness. If used in freezing conditions, keep it insulated (e.g., in your sleeping bag overnight).
Key Features and Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Filter Type | Ceramic Plus Carbon Core (removes bacteria, protozoa, particulate; carbon reduces taste/odor). |
| Effective Against | Bacteria (e.g., E. coli, Salmonella), Protozoa (e.g., Giardia, Cryptosporidium), Particulate. Does not remove viruses. |
| Flow Rate | Approximately 1 liter per minute (can vary based on water turbidity and filter cleanliness). |
| Filter Life | Up to 2,000 liters (ceramic element is field-cleanable to extend life). Replaceable elements are available. |
| Compatibility | Connects to standard wide-mouth bottles (Nalgene, MSR bottles), hydration reservoirs via hose, or can filter into any container. |
| Maintenance | Field-cleanable ceramic element. |
| Best Use | Backpacking, camping, hiking, international travel, emergency preparedness. |
For more detailed information and troubleshooting, always refer to the official MSR MiniWorks EX user manual.
Tips for Optimal Performance
- Pre-Filter Visually: Always aim for the clearest water source available. If the water is particularly murky, consider letting it sit for a while to allow sediment to settle, or use a cloth to pre-filter before pumping to reduce stress on your MiniWorks.
- Regular Cleaning: Don't wait for the flow to completely stop. A quick brush of the ceramic element every few liters (or daily on extended trips) will maintain an efficient flow rate.
- Cold Weather Care: In freezing temperatures, store the filter inside your jacket or sleeping bag to prevent water residue from freezing inside the filter, which can damage the ceramic.
- Test Before Trips: Always test your filter at home with clean tap water before a major trip to ensure it's functioning correctly and to practice its use.
By following these guidelines, your MSR MiniWorks EX will reliably provide you with safe drinking water on countless adventures.
