Everything You Need To Know About Reverse Osmosis Filtration System

First Posted: Jun 04, 2020 04:49 PM EDT
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Everything You Need To Know About Reverse Osmosis Filtration System

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When we think about water filtration systems, we don't naturally gravitate towards reverse osmosis systems. To most people, water filtration systems are those that use more traditional filters that we replace regularly ; this isn't the case with a reverse osmosis system. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about reverse osmosis filtration system. 

What Is Reverse Osmosis 

First off, we're going to need to explain osmosis and for this we're going to need to revisit high school science lessons. Osmosis is a process where the molecules of a solvent (in this case water) move through a semipermeable membrane into a solution on the other side, which is then equalised in concentration levels. Reverse Osmosis is achieved using the same principle, but pressure is applied so that the process is reversed. Instead of the weak solvent moving through the membrane to the stronger solution to create a balance, the strong solution (which may house unwanted particles such as lead) passes through the membrane to the other side. The result is purified water that is held on one side of the membrane and the concentrated solution is held on the other and remains there. 

How Do Reverse Osmosis Systems Work?

The reverse osmosis method of treating water relies on pressure and a membrane. This membrane is a tightly packed, spiral wound element made up of multiple layers. The unit runs under pressure constantly in order to force water through this tightly wound membrane and remove unwanted particles from your water supply. The pressure is created from a pump that is running 24/7 to ensure that you always have access to clean, safe water. You can expect that 75% of the water that is passed through the system is purified and if you are in an area where you need to conserve water, you can purchase units that will save 85% of the water. 

Can Anyone Have A Reverse Osmosis Filtration System?

Yes! Anyone can have one fitted if they feel as though their water supply isn't clean enough. They are especially important in areas that may have lead in their water and RO filtration systems are one of the recommended ways to remove this particle from your water supply. It is rare that you would use this for your whole house, in reality a reverse osmosis system is used to target particular areas of trouble, such as saltwater coming through your kitchen tap. 

Do Reverse Osmosis Filtration Systems Require A Lot Of Maintenance? 

One of the big deciding factors when we are looking to install any new equipment into our home is whether or not it will require a large amount of maintenance. The idea that we will have to continually spend money on something is usually enough for us not to install it, but you'll be thankful to know that this isn't the case when it comes to the RO system. If you go for a system that has filter cartridges, you won't be replacing them very often, maybe every 12 months at the earliest. 

This is different from popular reverse osmosis systems that use 6-stage filtration as each component of the filter will need to be replaced at different intervals. The pre filters will need to be changed every 6 months, the reverse membrane will need to be replaced every 18 to 24 months and the post filters will need to be replaced every 6-12 months. The cartridge systems are a far better alternative for people who don't want to have to think about replacing items at different times throughout the year. 

Where Can You Install A Reverse Osmosis System?

There are a variety of options when it comes to installing a reverse osmosis system and an array of different products now available on the market. If you are only looking to purify your drinking water you should choose products that are designed to sit under the sink. All reverse osmosis systems come with tanks attached so that they can store the purified water, this way you always have access to clean water. However, you will need to bear in mind the size of the tank, you may be limited due to the space you have available.

If you want the entire water supply into your house treated, there are whole house RO systems. Previously we said that this wasn't practical for this type of filtration system, but they can be purchase. They work by being installed at source or 'point of entry'. In order to have a system such as this, you will need a large space to be able to install it, such as a garage. You will also find that these systems are a lot more expensive than the under the sink counterparts, so they may not be a viable option for you. 

Final Thoughts

When it comes to purifying water, reverse osmosis is one of the most effective ways to do so. The tight densely packed filters will make sure that even the smallest of particles can't pass through and leave you with purified, safe and clean water for yourself and your family. Not only are they compact, they are also easy to maintain systems and some only require once a year filter changes. Smaller systems that fit under your sink are relatively in expensive and can provide you with clean water straight away as it is stored in a tank, so it is always available.

If you have the filtration system installed under your sink, the wastewater from the filtration process will simply enter into the wastewater stream that is already available. If you are looking for an entire house filtration system, an RO system may not be the best option as they are very expensive and require a large amount of space in order to work effectively, however, if you do chose RO, you can be sure that the water you get will always be clean and safe.

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