Summary: Reverse osmosis uses pressure to force water through a semi-permeable membrane, removing up to 99% of contaminants for pure drinking water.
What is Reverse Osmosis?
Reverse osmosis (RO) is a water purification process that uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove ions, molecules, and larger particles from drinking water. It's one of the most effective methods for producing clean, pure water.
How RO Systems Work
- Pre-filtration: Water passes through sediment and carbon filters
- RO Membrane: High pressure forces water through the membrane
- Post-filtration: Final carbon filter removes any remaining taste/odor
- Storage: Clean water is stored in a pressurized tank
What RO Removes
Contaminants Removed (99%+)
- Lead, mercury, arsenic
- Chlorine and chloramines
- Pesticides and herbicides
- Pharmaceuticals
- Bacteria and viruses
- Dissolved solids (TDS)
What Stays Behind
- Minerals like calcium and magnesium
- Some beneficial trace minerals
System Components
Pre-filters
- Sediment filter: Removes dirt, rust, sand
- Carbon filter: Removes chlorine, taste, odor
RO Membrane
- Semi-permeable: Allows water molecules through
- High pressure: Forces water through tiny pores
- Contaminant rejection: Blocks larger molecules
Post-filter
- Carbon polishing: Final taste improvement
- Storage tank: Holds purified water
Installation Considerations
Under-sink Systems
- Most common for residential use
- Requires dedicated faucet
- Easy maintenance access
Whole-house Systems
- Larger capacity
- More complex installation
- Higher initial cost
Maintenance Requirements
Filter Replacement Schedule
- Pre-filters: Every 6-12 months
- RO membrane: Every 2-3 years
- Post-filter: Every 12 months
System Monitoring
- Regular TDS testing
- Pressure gauge checks
- Flow rate monitoring
Water Quality Benefits
- Taste: Clean, pure drinking water
- Health: Removes harmful contaminants
- Convenience: Always available at your tap
- Cost: Cheaper than bottled water
Environmental Impact
- Reduces plastic bottle waste
- Lower carbon footprint
- Sustainable water source
- No transportation emissions