FAQ - Reverse Osmosis (RO) Drinking Water Systems

 

How long do Reverse Osmosis membranes last?  
  
The longevity of an RO membrane greatly depends on feed water conditions, how well the system is maintained and whether the supply is municipal or well water. On most municipal water supplies, the average useful life of a RO membrane is 2-4 years. In well water applications, RO life may be reduced due to varied water conditions.

 

Is soft water required to install a Reverse Osmosis system?  
  
Yes, in order for the RO system to work properly - soft water needs to be fed into the RO system.

 

What factors affect my RO system's performance?  
  
The quantity and quality of water produced by a Reverse Osmosis system are affected by feed water temperature, feed water pressure and total dissolved solids. Temperature affects the performance of an RO due to the intricate design of an RO membrane. Production is improved as water temperature approaches 77 degrees Fahrenheit. *****Please Note: An RO device should only be installed on the cold water line. Reverse Osmosis systems are also affected by feed water pressure. As pressures increase so does the rate in which water is produced. Generally speaking, Reverse Osmosis systems should be operated on feed water pressures above 40 psi to provide acceptable performance. High concentrations of total dissolved solids (poor) quality of the feed water may decrease the life of the RO membranes or require additional maintenance. 

 

What is Reverse Osmosis(RO)?  
  
Reverse Osmosis(RO) is the opposite of the natural process by which moisture is taken up by living cells. In reverse osmosis, water is forced against a synthetic membrane using normal city water pressure. Only molecules of water easily diffuse through this unique membrane material, and are collected as pure water on the other side. Impurities are left behind and are rinsed away to a waste drain. 

 

What kind of maintenance is required with an RO system?  
  
The prefilter(s) and postfilter needs to be replaced every 6-12 months. It is suggested that the following are performed annually: storage tank air charge is checked; sanitize the system.

 

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