There is no doubt whatsoever of the fact that reverse osmosis as a water purification technique is probably one of the best there is. So, buying a reverse osmosis purification system should be a pretty easy decision to make.
But, it is good to know a little more about such a water filter so you know exactly:
- how much you will need to pay to install it
- what would be the operational costs
- when you would need to replace the various parts and components of this system
- what would be the degree to which the water will get purified
Ideally, you should read articles such as this and stock up on information about reverse osmosis systems.
Why is an RO system popular?
If you were to look into the number of water purification technologies that people invest in, you would find that an RO system ranks pretty high in popularity. This is because it is probably one of the most effective systems that can be utilized for residential and commercial purpose. Basically, a reverse osmosis system works on nano filtration processes or the use of a semi permeable membrane which cleanses the water as it passes through. It can get rid of most of the contaminants that are contained in water.
Stages used in an RO device
Most devices have something known as a four stage purification process. Others have a five stage purification process. Depending on the device that you are looking at, these processes can include:
- use of a micron sediment filter
- a carbon block filter
- the semipermeable membrane
- other filters which continue to clean up the water on its way
Getting into the technical aspects
Most websites of companies that deal with reverse osmosis systems will give you plenty of information on the technology aspect. For instance, it would be good to know about the kind of membranes that go into the making of your water filter system. Did you know that there is something known as different grading of micron. A leading company could state that they use a 5 micron filter.
You may also like to find out whether the RO system finds certification with the NSF or National Sanitation Foundation. The specific standards that deal with drinking water purification systems are Standards 42, 53 and 58 with 58 being specific to RO water purification systems.
Interestingly, a water purification system can be called as an RO system only when they adhere to a certain pressure rating. For instance, there are some membranes that operate at a 20 psi rating and in reality this does not qualify as an RO system.
Components of a RO system
When you decide to buy a Reverse Osmosis system, it will also be worthwhile to check out the aspects pertaining to:
- the kind of contaminants and even minerals and metals that can remove
- whether the NSF has certified its storage tank
- whether it has an automatic shut-off mechanism to minimize the wastage of water
- how often you will have to replace faucets, pipes and the semipermeable membrane
- what the capacity of the RO device per day would be and accordingly decide whether it is fit for your family’s consumption.
James is a wirter and blogger with 5 years experience.