Reverse Osmosis Water Filter Solutions
Reverse osmosis (RO) separates water molecules from all other substances, including calcium and magnesium, that cause hardness and can lead to limescale buildup. Hard water is not ideal for cooking and can make showering less pleasant. It can also corrode pipes, decrease water heater efficiency, and reduce the lifespan of water-using appliances.
Traditional water purifiers use multiple filtration stages to remove particulate matter, chemicals, and gases. An RO system requires just a singular semipermeable membrane, which removes dirt, heavy metals, pesticides, and much more. It can also eliminate pathogens and parasites, whereas a standard water purifier generally requires UV light for that purpose.
It’s important to have a plumber size your RO system properly. Accurate sizing will maximize your investment in both the short and long term. One important consideration is the system’s capacity, often measured in gallons per day (GPD). You need enough GPD to meet your overall daily water demands. Another consideration is the flow rate, measured in gallons per minute (GPM). If the GPM is too low, you’ll experience low water pressure and other plumbing issues.
Does RO remove beneficial minerals, too? Yes, people and pets need minerals in their water for balanced health, and RO systems remove those as well. However, RO systems for home use compensate for this with remineralization filters. Such filters improve smell, taste, and texture while adding trace minerals, natural alkalinity, and, in some cases, hydrogen antioxidants.
Is it true that RO wastes water? From a cost and water conservation perspective, it’s essential to choose an efficient system. That’s why many experts recommend looking for the U.S. EPA’s WaterSense label, as those systems use 2.3 gallons or less for every 1 gallon of clean water delivered.
Does an RO water filter require maintenance? It does, but maintenance is more convenient than that for a water purifier or water softener. You should schedule annual maintenance so that a plumber can sanitize the system and correct any wear and tear. Membranes require replacement and will usually last two to five years, depending on usage. There are no salt refills required, as with softeners, and no multiple annual filter changes, as with water purifiers.
Reverse osmosis filtration can remove many substances from your water:
- Calcium carbonate
- Cysts and other parasites
- Unpleasant tastes and smells
- Chlorine, chloramine, and fluoride
- Bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens