Considering buying a Reverse Osmosis System but aren't sure which one you should choose or which one would work best in your home?
With an array of options available, from traditional plumbed-in systems to advanced tankless under-sink models and even hydrogen-infused systems, making the right choice might seem overwhelming.
Read on for our expert advice on what to look for when buying a new system, the differences between the types of systems available and how to choose the right RO system for your home.
What is reverse osmosis?
Reverse osmosis is a water purification process that removes contaminants by pushing water molecules through a semipermeable membrane to separate contaminants from water.
This membrane has microscopic pores that allow water molecules to pass through while blocking larger molecules, ions, and impurities. As a result, you get purified water on one side of the membrane while impurities are flushed away.
What reverse osmosis systems can be used for
Reverse osmosis is a popular choice for purifying drinking water, which may be required in households contaminated with higher levels of heavy metals, sediment or other chemicals.
Due to its capacity to filter contaminants to provide highly purified water, health-conscious individuals tend to go for RO systems.
You may also simply be looking to improve the taste and odour of your tap water, particularly if you live in an area with hard water.
There are many industries where RO water is required, such as fishkeeping, window cleaning, dentistry, food & drink production and even desalination.
Things to Consider Before Purchasing an RO system
Before we dive into the different types of systems, it's important to understand your requirements so you can make the choice that will be most adequate for you and your home.
- Budget – with RO systems prices varying from double to triple digits, knowing how much you are willing to spend will help refine your choice. You should also consider the costs and benefits in the long term, such as regularly purchasing RO replacement filters or how much you will save if you are no longer buying bottled water, for example.
- Water Demand – How much water will you need on a daily basis? Roughly knowing how much water your family drinks in a day will help you choose a system that can keep up with your requirements.
- Water Pressure – All reverse osmosis systems have minimum 40PSI/3BAR water pressure requirements in order to function and levels at which the systems will operate. The pressure is measured in PSI (Pound per Square Inch) or Bars – a pressure gauge can be used to measure the water pressure in your house accurately. Optimal pressure to reach the stated output is around 80/100PSI, which is usually only achieved with a booster pump which are available on our Reverse Osmosis systems.
- Water Quality – Maintaining RO systems is pretty straightforward, and a key element to ensure they keep working at full capacity is to regularly replace filters. Water quality will have a big impact on how often you need to do this. This will also impact how much pre-filtration you need. You can use a TDS Meter to measure water quality.
- Space Available - Consider where you're going to install your RO system and whether you have enough space for it or you are more limited, once again helping with your choice.
- Health Benefits – Are you simply looking to improve your tap water taste, or do you want to have the added benefits that some systems provide? Make sure that the system you choose aligns with your main reasons for getting an RO system in the first place.
Wastewater in RO Systems
One important aspect to consider when choosing an RO system is the production of wastewater. During the reverse osmosis process, a significant portion of the input water doesn't pass through the membrane; instead, it's directed to the drain as wastewater.
This can be concerning from a water conservation standpoint and if you are on a water meter. However, many modern RO systems are designed to be more efficient, creating less wastewater compared to older models. It is however perfectly feasible to reuse this wastewater for non-drinking purposes, like watering plants or cleaning.
For every litre purified, 2-4 litres can be wasted. However, more efficient systems (such as tankless RO systems and countertop RO systems) can reduce this ratio.
Choosing the Best RO System for Your Home
5-Stage & 6-Stage RO Systems
If you've browsed RO Systems before, you may have noticed that systems come with either 5 or 6 stages of filtration.
5-Stage RO systems come with sediment and carbon pre-filters, a reverse osmosis membrane, and a post-carbon filter. 5-stage systems efficiently remove contaminants like chlorine, sediment, fluoride and heavy metals. However, they may strip away beneficial minerals and slightly lower pH levels.
Our 5-Stage RO system recommendations:
6-Stage RO systems do everything a 5-stage will do but incorporate an additional remineralisation/alkaline filter after the RO process. This filter restores health-essential minerals such as calcium, potassium, magnesium, and sodium to the water. Thus enhancing taste and providing potential health benefits through pH balancing.
Our 6-stage RO system recommendations:
What About 3 & 4 Stage Systems?
We currently have one 4-stage domestic RO system available that is suitable for drinking water. This more compact option only has 2 pre-filters and no pumped option.
Most 3 & 4-stage RO systems are suited for aquariums.
Different RO System Types Available
Traditional Under-Sink RO Systems
Installed under your sink, these systems connect to your home's plumbing and use a series of filters to purify water. A storage tank holds the filtered water until you need it.
- Pro: More affordable than tankless options
- Con: More complex installation and filter replacements than tankless/countertop systems. Takes up more space.
Tankless Under-Sink Systems
These compact systems also fit under the sink and produce water on demand, eliminating the need for a storage tank. They employ similar filtration stages as traditional systems but are much more space efficient.
● Pro: Compact, space-saving option. Easier filter changes, direct flow, auto flush features, filter replacement reminders.
● Con: Pricier than traditional options.
