Access to safe and pure drinking water is an essential need for all households. Homeowners are investing in sophisticated filtration systems, because recognizable contaminants are beginning to show up in tap water in both municipal and well sources. One of the more reliable and efficient options available today is the reverse osmosis (RO) system. In this guide, we will discuss a reverse osmosis system for home.
At Valley Water Solutions, we will cover everything you need to know about installing and maintaining an RO system at home. This thorough overview is specifically intended for those thinking of installing an RO system. You will learn about what an RO system does, how an RO system works, and what the benefits there are to installing one. You will also get plenty of insight about installing an RO system in your home!
What is a Reverse Osmosis System?
A reverse osmosis system is a water purification method that employs a semi-permeable membrane, which is used to eliminate contaminants, unwanted molecules, and larger particles (such as sediment and chlorine) from your drinking water.
The way the system works is that you apply pressure to force water through the membrane. Any impurities, sediments, and larger contaminants are trapped on one side of the membrane while pure water goes through to the other side.
Reverse osmosis filtration technology is a common and acceptable method for point-of-use drinking water filtering in homes. RO systems filter tap water to produce fresh and clean water from your kitchen sink.
How Does a Reverse Osmosis System Work?
Pre-Filtration: The first step is the pre-filtration stage that has a sediment filter that removes dirt, rust, and other debris, followed by the second stage, which is a carbon filter that removes chlorine and organic compounds.
RO Membrane: A Reverse Osmosis (RO) is a semi-permeable membrane that filters out dissolved salts, heavy metals, bacteria, viruses, and harmful contaminants from the water.
Post-filtration: The water is filtered a second time through a carbon filter after going through the RO, removing any potential odors and/or unpleasant tastes.
Storage tank: The clean water is stored in an internal storage tank for later use.
Optional remineralization: Some systems have an optional remineralization filter which provides healthy minerals like calcium and magnesium back into the water.
Main Benefits of Reverse Osmosis for Home Use
- There are several benefits to having a reverse osmosis system at home:
Greater Filtration
RO systems remove as much as 99% of contaminants like lead, fluoride, arsenic, chlorine, nitrates, and bacteria. The quality of tap water is unpredictable and it brings peace of mind knowing what you are drinking.
Better Taste and Odor
RO systems remove chemicals and minerals that cause a metallic or chlorine taste. With reserve osmosis your water do not taste like anything but pure and fresh.
Saving Money
The price of an RO system can appear high and in long run you can save money. Drinking pure water will eliminate the necessity of buying bottled or delivered water.
Eco-Friendly
Households with RO systems can help reduce environmental pollution by eliminating plastic containers and drinking from reusable water containers.
Convenience
Having bottled quality water at your tap at a fraction of the cost encourages better hydration for the whole family.
Is Reverse Osmosis Water Safe Long-Term?
Yes! Reverse osmosis water filtered at the kitchen sink through a properly maintained system is safe and healthful for your home. Some detractors may say RO water is “too pure” with no minerals, but humans consume a high majority of necessary nutrients from food, not water. During reverse osmosis, you may have a remineralisation stage added to your reverse osmosis system to enrich it with beneficial minerals if someone wants to consume them.
Where Are Reverse Osmosis Systems Typically Located at Home?
The RO system is typically located under the kitchen sink. However, additional consideration is often taken depending on the household configuration or plumbing, including:
Whole House Reverse Osmosis System: Great for well water or extreme contamination.
Point-of-Use (POU): Thought of as drinking and cooking water, this is typically installed under the sink, sometimes in the pantry.
Countertop Systems: These compact systems are typically portable, which is helpful for renters or shorter term leases or small apartments.
How to Maintain Your Reverse Osmosis System?
Routine maintenance ensures your RO system works effectively and delivers quality water.
Filter Replacement Schedule:
- Sediment & Carbon Filters: 6–12 months
- RO Membrane: 2–3 years
- Post-Carbon Filter: annually
- Remineralization Filter (if applicable): 6–12 months
Additionally, routine sanitization and leak checks are important to prolong the life of the system and prohibit any bacterial growth.
Reverse Osmosis and Water Waste
One of the most common questions with reverse osmosis systems is water waste. Traditional reverse osmosis systems waste approximately 3 to 5 gallons for every gallon of filtered water produced. Thankfully, newer systems are much more efficient, and Valley Water Solution utilises low-waste and zero-waste technology with our advanced systems to conserve water, such as:
- Pump-assisted RO systems
- Tankless RO units
- Permeate pump systems
In addition to the water savings, you could see a potential savings on your monthly utility bill.
Who Should Consider an RO System?
RO systems are best suited for:
- Homes with hard water
- Households that use well water
- Families that have infants or the elderly
People are concerned about their health due to waterborne contaminants
Homes with high TDS in their groundwater and little or no municipal water treatment
Why Valley Water Solution?
At Valley Water Solution, we design and build individually tailored water purification systems, including the latest reverse osmosis systems. Below are several reasons why hundreds of families trust us:
- Professionally Installed
- High Quality, Certified RO Units
- Annual Maintenance Plans
- Budget-Friendly Packages and Warranty
- Outstanding Service Support
As an end-to-end solution provider, our professionally trained staff ensure your family drinks the purity and great tasting water every day! From consultation, installation and post installation service, our experienced staff support you through it all.
Conclusion
A reverse osmosis system for the home would be one of the best investments your family could make for your health. Each day, your family would enjoy safe great tasting water with no dependence on bottled alternatives, which would reduce plastic. By investing in the right reverse osmosis system for your home and maintaining it, you will have enough quality water for years to come.
At Valley Water Solution, we’re here to help you make the right decision for your home. Contact us today to set up a free water test and consultation.
FAQS – Reverse Osmosis System for Home
1. What is the cost of a home reverse osmosis system?
Basic under-sink RO systems start between AED 800–1,200. High-end models with other features like remineralisation or smart sensors can range from AED 1,500–3,000. Valley Water Solution has affordable options with professional installation.
2. Will a reverse osmosis system remove fluoride and lead?
Yes, RO systems can remove up to 99% of fluoride, lead, chlorine, and other harmful chemicals and heavy metals in tap water.
3. Is the installation process difficult?
No. Most RO systems will take a certified technician under 2 hours to install. Valley Water Solution can provide full installation services for residential applications.
4. How long does a reverse osmosis system last?
If a system is maintained and filters are changed when indicated by the system, a reverse osmosis system can last as long as 10–15 years. The filters and membranes will need to be changed regularly, depending on system use.
