Frequently Asked Questions

Reverse Osmosis (RO) is a water purification method that produces high-quality drinking water. Originally developed by the US Navy to produce drinking water from high salinity seawater for submarine crews, RO technology involves membrane filter technology. The process forces water under pressure through very small pores of a semi-permeable membrane, effectively removing impurities and contaminants. Learn more about the history of reverse osmosis.

Most (RO) systems developed for use in residential applications involve processing the water through several stages of filtration to produce high-quality drinking water. There are several systems that may have anywhere from 3-stage filtration up to 6+ stage filtration. Most systems involve multiple filters that include 5-micron sediment and activated carbon prefilters prior to the water flowing through the membrane.

Our most popular 5-Stage 50 Gallon Per Day (RO) System processes the water through 3 separate pre-filtration filters that remove organic contaminants, particulates, chlorine, and its by-products. Next, the water flows through the reverse osmosis membrane, a very tightly wound sheet filter, that rejects dissolved solids and a long list of other impurities to the drain and allows purified water to pass to a storage tank.

When the dedicated faucet that is installed on the sink countertop is opened, the purified water from the storage tank flows through a final stage post-carbon filter to polish the taste. Additional stages can be added to the system to include Alkaline or Remineralization Filters and UV Light Disinfection.

Distilled water has a few parts per million more of mineral constituents removed vs. (RO) water. However, distillers don’t remove contaminants such as volatile chemicals (VOCs) with a low boiling point. For example, Chloramines, which many cities use instead of Chlorine as a disinfectant are not removed through distillation of water. Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Systems that include carbon prefiltration do a very good job at removing chemical contaminants in water.

The typical Reverse Osmosis (RO) system installed under the kitchen sink for drinking water consumption uses water similarly to other water-using appliances in the home. We use and send water to the drain every day by washing clothes, washing dishes, and flushing toilets. An RO system uses more water in its operation than is actually consumed; however, you will not suddenly see a jump in your water bill.

When the storage tank is full, the system will automatically stop the incoming water and shut down water flowing to the drain. In terms of expense, it’s like a couple of extra toilet flushes a day.

With proper maintenance and service your (RO) unit could last a very long time. Regularly replacing the prefilter and post filters is crucial to the longevity of the system and especially the (RO) membrane. Typical membrane life is 3 to 5 years, depending on the quality of the water you are processing.

While Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems are known to remove about 98% of minerals, this isn’t the full picture. This topic is one of the most frequently asked and debated questions in drinking water purification. Experts on both sides present convincing arguments, making it confusing for consumers.

Research shows that the mineral content in water, whether high or low, is less significant than you might think. The minerals found in water are inorganic and not easily absorbed by your body. Instead, you obtain the majority of essential minerals from your diet and daily supplements. The main concern with most water supplies is the presence of chemicals and other impurities, rather than the mineral content.

Reverse Osmosis remains the most efficient and cost-effective method.

No, they work on water pressure. The only instance where you would need electricity for an (RO) is if you have an added booster pump or Ultraviolet Lamp installed as part of the system.

Ultimately this depends on the quality of the water the unit is processing and how frequently the system is used. The prefilters and post filter will need to be replaced biannually to annually. Depending on the model of the (RO), the annual cost is between $0.30 to $0.60 a day. Much more cost effective than buying bottled water!

Yes, in fact we recommend it, but only if you can reach the appliance with a ⅜” tube from the under sink (RO) system. It is a good idea because you will no longer have the expense of changing the expensive and less effective filters included with most model refrigerators. If we can not reach the appliance with a line from the under the sink (RO) unit you can sometimes install an additional (RO) dedicated to the refrigerator, but it depends on the layout of your kitchen.

A water softener and other whole house filtration actually help to extend the life of the filters and membrane of the (RO) system. The calcium and magnesium present in most water supplies are 2 of the hardest minerals for the (RO) to remove. We suggest pairing up a whole house water filtration system with the (RO) unit to achieve the top water for the entire home!