What is Reverse Osmosis and How Does It Work

Reverse Osmosis (RO) is a water treatment process that reduces contaminants in water. It helps in providing pure water for both businesses and homes. A filtration system can be installed either at the point of use or entry.

An RO system is preferably used to purify water because it reduces nitrates, pesticides, sulfates, fluoride, pharmaceuticals and arsenic contaminants.

How it Works

A reverse osmosis system uses pressure to force water molecules through a semipermeable membrane. Water impurities are blocked by the membrane ensuring pure water flows from it. There are four stages in the enhanced filtration process.

1. Sediment Filter

This is a pre-filter stage that protects the other delicate parts of the RO system. It reduces sediment, dirt and silt in the water.

2. Carbon Filter

This is designed to reduce chlorine and other impurities that interfere with the performance of the RO membrane. The taste and odor of water is also improved at this stage.

3. Reverse Osmosis Membrane

At this stage, the impurities listed above are filtered out.

4. Polishing Filter

In the fourth stage, a final post filter polishes off the water by removing any remaining taste and odor from the water.

Service and Maintenance

Generally, maintaining and servicing a reverse osmosis system is easy and relatively inexpensive. The filters are supposed to be replaced once every year and membranes every 3-5 years depending on the filter type, water quality and water usage volume.

Less electricity is used in commercial ROs, while home ROs don’t use electricity at all. This is because they solely depend on water pressure for their functionality. For a long life span, an annual sanitation and filter change is strongly recommended.

Health Benefits of Drinking RO Water

Reverse osmosis water is the best for drinking because it has very few impurities and tastes better than regular tap water. The best part is we need to drink water daily to help flush out toxins, boost our immune system and increase our energy.

To get the best water solutions, such as water softeners, drinking water and filtration systems, for both homes and businesses, please contact a Hellenbrand Authorized Dealer today.