Osmosis occurs when molecules of a solvent, such as water, naturally pass through a semi-permeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to a place of higher solute concentration. This process occurs to equalize the solute concentration on both sides of the membrane.
Reverse osmosis, also known as RO, works opposite to naturally occurring osmosis. It is a beneficial process for water purification and is used for various household and industrial applications. It uses a semi-permeable membrane to separate contaminants from clean water. Reverse osmosis systems include a membrane, a storage tank, filters, and vessels that remove sediment, bacteria, viruses, and other impurities.
Reverse osmosis systems utilize a pump to push water through a semi-permeable membrane. They prevent specific molecules from passing through the membrane while allowing others into the purified, clean water collected in the storage tank. Reverse osmosis systems are cost-effective, durable, and flexible for multiple uses. They are applied in everything from drinking water to home aquariums, and they can even be used to desalinate ocean water. Whether you are a homeowner looking for fresh, affordable drinking water or in an industrial setting and need a reliable filtration system to treat wastewater or sewage, reverse osmosis is an efficient tool to accomplish the task.
Stages of Reverse Osmosis Systems
Reverse osmosis systems have several stages of filtration for cleaner and healthier water. The first stage is a sediment filter that catches large particles like dirt and rust. This stage provides the initial pre-treatment before water passes through the reverse osmosis membrane. According to research, sediment filters must be maintained on a regular basis to extend the life of your reverse osmosis membrane.
The next filtration stage in reverse osmosis systems is the carbon filter. These filters have pore sizes ranging from 0.0001 microns to 100 microns or larger. They remove substances like chlorine, benzene, and THMs from the water. VOCs can also be eliminated with these filters. Carbon filters are used as an initial attempt to reduce chlorine levels in water before it reaches the membrane. This process helps to extend the life of the membrane by reducing the amount of sediment or other particles it needs to filter out.
In the final filtration stage, the semi-permeable membrane performs hyperfiltration. This process reduces total dissolved solids (TDS) to create pure, high-quality drinking water. In this stage, arsenic, lead, and other substances harmful to human health are significantly reduced or eliminated from the water.
The Benefits of Using a Reverse Osmosis System
1. Removes Impurities
Depending on the specific system, reverse osmosis can remove up to 99% of contaminants from drinking water. In addition to blocking salts and minerals from drinking water, reverse osmosis systems remove unpleasant odors, tastes, and colors caused by microscopic contaminants in the water.
2. Cost-Effective
A reverse osmosis system is a simple, cost-effective way to ensure the water you and your family drink and use is clean and safe. Since these systems deliver clean drinking water, you will save money by spending less on bottled water and other costly substitutes. With durable components and no electricity required, a reverse osmosis system is a perfect investment for anyone looking to get clean water in their home on demand.
3. Customized To Fit Your Budget
A reverse osmosis system can be customized with different components to suit your budget and water purification needs. You can choose a system that uses more powerful filters, like carbon or sediment filters, in addition to the semi-permeable membrane. These stronger filters might filter impurities more effectively. You can also opt for a high-capacity system to filter large volumes of water. A professional can help you select the filters and tank size to suit your household.
How To Choose the Right Reverse Osmosis System for Your Home
Choosing the perfect reverse osmosis system for your home can seem daunting, but with a few tips, you can select one that will deliver clean water when you need it most. First, consider the amount of water you consume on a weekly basis. Doing this will help you determine if you should select a reverse osmosis system with long-term storage capabilities. Next, research the kind of contaminants detected in your local water supply. Not all reverse osmosis systems can remove every possible particulate. If your area has a high level of water contamination, consider installing a five-stage reverse osmosis system in your home. Reading reviews from trusted sources can provide extra assurance that you are selecting the right filtration system for your situation.
How To Install a Reverse Osmosis System
There are several essential points to consider when considering where and how to install a reverse osmosis system. First, know the water source that will be connected to the system because this will determine the type of filtration required. A sediment pre-filter may be necessary if the water supply has high sediment levels. In addition, the system’s location will also impact the quality and quantity of purified water it can produce.
It is highly recommended to hire a professional plumber to install a reverse osmosis system. Plumbers are experienced and knowledgeable in connecting pipes, running water lines, and setting up the system to work effectively. They also know how to select the right components for the job and properly maintain and troubleshoot the system. They will ensure that all components are properly aligned and securely fastened and that the reverse osmosis is adequately handling the water pressure for effective filtration.
How to Maintain a Reverse Osmosis System
Regular maintenance for reverse osmosis systems is essential to keep them running at peak performance and keep harmful substances from entering your water supply. Change the membranes regularly, as they capture contaminants while pushing water through the system and will eventually clog if not replaced according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Flush the system out once a year with a designated cleaning solution to reduce buildup in the lines and tank. Also, inspect all filters and hoses monthly for any debris or blockages that should be addressed immediately. By taking these simple but necessary steps, you can maintain a healthy reverse osmosis system that will deliver contaminant-free drinking water into your home.
Contact Us!
As a resident of Phoenix, AZ or the surrounding communities, you can take advantage of the many benefits of reverse osmosis systems and enjoy clean and safe drinking water. At Wyman Plumbing & Mechanical, our team of experts will work with you to find the right purification system for your home or business and provide tailored maintenance advice to keep it running effectively over time. In addition to reverse osmosis systems, we also offer standard and tankless water heaters, water softeners, gas line installation, and appliance repair services. Contact Wyman Plumbing & Mechanical and learn how a reverse osmosis system will purify your tap or well water by removing up to 99% of contaminants, including sediment, chlorine, and other unwanted elements.
