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Gear Review
MSR HyperFlow Microfilter
Not worth the frustration
By Steve Masters
Ranked #16 - Water Treatment
August 11, 2009
I had trouble with this one on the trail, even after following directions. At first it did filter quite fast, but did require some effort. At exactly 8L, this filter slowed to a dribble, obviously indicating a backflush. After fussing to reverse the valves, the backflush procedure didn't work as well as I would have hoped. It was still difficult to pump water through, and even a long back flushing would not improve it.
In addition, the intake side of the pump would often come loose during pumping, spraying water everywhere. The pre-filter float also wouldn't stay submerged enough or face down effectively in the water.
I ended up going for an extra ounce or two with the Autoflow gravity filter, and have been so much happier. No pumping, simplistic back flushing, water storage, backcountry shower, etc.
View Details: MSR HyperFlow Microfilter
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Change me.
2 Comments Last Reply: August 28, 2009 By: Phil maher
I noticed this bulletin on another retailer's site: "MSR has identified and fixed a flow rate issue affecting some cartridges in MSR HyperFlow microfilters. As of February 11, 2009, all filter cartridges sold by [this retailer] perform to flow specifications." I'd contact MSR and see about getting a free replacement on the chance that you have a defective filter cartridge. I recently used a friend's new HyperFlow without a problem, and I'll likely buy one myself.
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I reviewed this product previously, but felt that your experience warranted an update. Definitely call MSR and give them the serial # from the filter cartridge itself. They'll be able to tell you if your unit was subject to recall and they'll gladly send you a replacement. My Hyper-flow has worked flawlessly since I got mine. I've got a couple tricks for you- When backflushing, use a wide-mouth Nalgene and the attachment cap that comes with the filter. Fill the bottle completely and make sure you have the piston fully compressed. Invert the bottle so you get absolutely no air. On the first stroke, extend the piston out until you see the chamber fill completely and no longer hear the sound of suction. You may need to also do this for the second pump as well, but it will get easier. Empty the bottle, reverse the valves, done. Sounds more complicated than it really is. I try to pump the cleanest water I can find, and when possible) I'm averaging 10-12 liters before flushing. If you're pumping dirty water, then by all means, use the pre-filter. If not, bag it. Instead, tie a large, loose loop in the tubing about 8" from the end (don't kink it), then hold it under water with a small rock or between the treads on your boot (find an eddy if it's fast water). Make sure the end of the hose is elevated a bit from the bed of the water source. This should do you. Another cool trick is to get yourself one of the Granite Gear 2gal water bags, then have a seat and pump from that. You should have one of these anyway, they're awesome.
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