A Reverse Osmosis (RO) installation system is a multi-stage water purification process that uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove a vast majority of contaminants from water. This membrane has tiny pores that allow water molecules to pass through but block larger particles, including dissolved salts, minerals, chemicals, bacteria, and viruses.
Here's a summary of the typical installation and function of an RO system:
Installation:
- Water Source Connection: The system is connected to your main cold water line, usually under the kitchen sink.
- Pre-Filtration Stages: Before the water reaches the RO membrane, it typically passes through one or more pre-filters. These often include a sediment filter to remove particulate matter and a carbon filter to remove chlorine and other substances that could damage the membrane.
- RO Membrane Housing: The pre-filtered water then flows into a housing containing the RO membrane. Pressure from the incoming water forces the smaller water molecules through the membrane, leaving the contaminants behind.
- Storage Tank: The purified water is then stored in a pressurized tank, ready for use.
- Post-Filtration Stage (Polishing Filter): Before the purified water is dispensed, it usually passes through another carbon filter (post-filter) to remove any remaining tastes or odors, ensuring high-quality drinking water.
- Dedicated Faucet: A separate faucet is installed on your sink to dispense the purified RO water.
- Drain Line: The concentrated wastewater containing the rejected contaminants is flushed down a drain line.
Function:
The core of the RO system is the semi-permeable membrane. High pressure forces water across this membrane. Because the pores are so small (around 0.0001 microns), they effectively filter out a wide range of impurities, including:
- Dissolved salts and minerals (e.g., sodium, calcium, magnesium)
- Heavy metals (e.g., lead, arsenic, mercury)
- Chemicals (e.g., chlorine byproducts, pesticides)
- Sediment and rust
- Microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, cysts)
RO systems are highly effective at producing clean and pure drinking water. However, they do have some considerations:
- Wastewater: The process generates wastewater as the rejected contaminants are flushed away. The ratio of purified water to wastewater can vary depending on the system and water pressure.
- Flow Rate: The purification process is relatively slow, which is why a storage tank is necessary to provide on-demand purified water.
- Maintenance: Regular filter replacements (pre-filters, post-filter, and the RO membrane itself) are required to ensure optimal performance and water quality.
In summary, a Reverse Osmosis installation system is a powerful water filtration method that involves multiple stages, including pre-filtration, forcing water through a semi-permeable membrane under pressure, storage, and often a post-filtration stage. It effectively removes a wide array of contaminants to provide high-quality drinking water dispensed through a dedicated faucet.