4 Ways a Reverse Osmosis Water Filter Can Make Your Life Better

Faucet water contains dissolved minerals, metals, bacteria, viruses, and protozoans that can  damage your health and hurt your business. The reverse osmosis water filtration system  removes these water impurities.

Table of Contents

What is Reverse Osmosis?

What does reverse osmosis remove?

4 Ways a Reverse Osmosis Water Filter Can Make Your Life Better

FAQ's

 

Fun facts: 

Depending on age, body type, and gender, adult human bodies are about 55–70% water. Babies are 78% water by weight on average. 

Our organs have different moisture levels, with the lungs at 83% water and the bones at  31%. 

Conclusion? 

We need water to survive and function. 

Here is another fact: 

More people die from unsafe water than violence, including war, every year. (UNDESA) How safe is your water? 

Before drinking another glass or buy a pet fish, ask yourself, "Is this water safe or harmful?"

How can you make water safer for you, your family, and your business?

 

Water filtration 

There are different things you can do to make contaminated water clean, safe, and  drinkable. 

One of the safest, most convenient, most effective, and most sustainable ways to filter your  water is through a reverse osmosis water filtration system. 

 

What is Reverse Osmosis? 

Simply put, a reverse osmosis (RO) system is a separation technique that removes water  impurities so only clean water can pass through. 

Reverse osmosis demineralizes, deionizes, and desalinizes salt water. 

The pre-filters and post-filters in reverse osmosis make the water filtration system more  effective. 

 

How Does Reverse Osmosis Work? 

Water is pushed or forced by pressure to pass through a barrier or filter (a specialized  membrane) where the impurities are trapped. 

The contaminants are blocked, allowing only pure sparkling water into the filter.

Pump (pressure) -> Tap water -> Filter -> Drinkable water

Think of bouncers guarding the doors in a club that only allows VIPs or ticket holders to  enter. 

Or your coffee filter that lets liquid coffee flow through but traps the coffee grounds. Or an editor who removes unnecessary text or sentences before publishing a write-up. You get the picture. 

The filter used in reverse osmosis water filtration system has approximately a 0.0001-micron  pore size.

That means the membrane will discard particles larger than 100 molecular weight units. 

 

What does reverse osmosis remove? 

The types and number of water contaminants present depend on your area and water  source. 

Most cities use municipality-treated water, while wells are the primary source for rural  households. 

There could be sand, algae, lead, lime, chlorine, calcium, other minerals, some agricultural or  pharmaceutical pollutants, and salt in your water. 

Some contaminants are not visible to your naked eye, while others carry a foul odor. 

Aside from total dissolved solids (TDS) or dissolved minerals and heavy metals, sediments  are also present. They can be seen floating in the water or changing their color and turbidity. 

Pesticides can seep into your water source if you live near agricultural areas. All these contaminants are harmful to your health. 

Thankfully, there is a reverse osmosis water filter. 

It is not only beneficial to homes but also a trusted filtration system in commercial  industries. 

Here are four ways a reverse osmosis water filter can make your life better.

 

 

4 Ways a Reverse Osmosis Water Filter Can Make Your Life  Better

1. Reverse osmosis water is better for your health. 

Contaminated water will make you sick. 

Reverse osmosis is highly effective in removing contaminants and preventing health risks. How does reverse osmosis help purify water? 

A reverse osmosis water filtration system removes these common water pollutants:

 

Sodium 

Although sodium is a nutrient your body needs, excess sodium intake can be hazardous to  your health. At high levels, it can cause high blood pressure, gastrointestinal tract ulceration,  and liver and kidney problems. 

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends a sodium content of  not more than 20 mg in water sources. Reverse osmosis removes 85–94% of sodium in the  water. 

 

Chloride 

Chloride can cause corrosion and damage to your metallic piping and fixtures. It can also  impede vegetation growth. It makes the water salty. Reverse osmosis will remove 90–95% of  chlorides. 

 

Copper 

Copper gives water a metallic or bitter taste. In high concentrations, copper can cause  nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headaches. Reverse osmosis eradicates 97–98% of copper in  the water. 

 

Chromium 

In large quantities, chromium can lead to reproductive problems, kidney and liver damage,  gastrointestinal distress, and skin ulcers. The maximum contaminant level (MCL) for total  chromium is 0.1 milligrams per liter. 

 

Lead 

Even a tiny amount of lead in the water is considered dangerous. It can cause brain and  nerve damage, anemia, congenital disorders, muscle problems, and increased blood  pressure. In large amounts, it could be fatal. Reverse osmosis removes 95–98% of lead. 

 

Mercury 

Mercury is harmful to the nervous, digestive, immune systems, lungs, and kidneys. Reverse  osmosis removes 95–97% of the mercury in the water. 

Reverse osmosis can also reduce:

• Arsenic
• Nickel
• Fluoride 
• Radium
• Sulfate
• Calcium
• Magnesium
• Potassium
• Nitrate
• Phosphate
• Phosphorous
• Iron
• Manganese
• Barium

Reverse osmosis is effective in removing viruses, such as:

• Enteric
• Hepatitis A
• Norovirus
• Rotavirus

The RO water filtration system can remove parasites or protozoa like Cryptosporidium, the  most common cause of recreational water disease in the United States. 

Some patients infected by this parasite also experience fever and cramps. 

Reverse osmosis can remove Giardia, which causes intestinal infections in humans and  animals.

Giardiasis can be fatal to children if not given proper medical attention. 

Cyanobacteria or blue-green algae, Campylobacter, Salmonella, Shigella, and E. coli are all  eliminated by reverse osmosis.

 

Radionuclides 

Radionuclides are found in rocks and minerals and can seep into the water. 

Radium, uranium, alpha particles, beta particles, and photon emitters are examples of  radionuclides commonly found in the domestic well water supply. 

They can potentially cause cancer, anemia, osteoporosis, cataracts, bone growth problems,  kidney disease, and liver disease. They can weaken the immune system.

According to the EPA, reverse osmosis can remove up to 99% of radionuclides.

 

Reverse osmosis in the medical field 

The medical and pharmaceutical industries use reverse osmosis water filtration systems. 

In hospitals, doctors and staff use sterile water for disinfecting equipment and cleaning  injuries. 

Reverse osmosis water is the water of choice for dialysis.

It is safe for patients undergoing cancer treatment or those with a weak immune system  because it has no disease-causing organisms.

Pure water is best when mixing drugs, as it does not contain minerals that can cause drug  interaction.

Some cosmetics and pharmaceutical manufacturers use reverse osmosis in their processes. In dental practice, RO filter supplies water in autoclaves and other dental equipment.

Purified water from reverse osmosis is also a favorite for cleaning windows in hospitals,  homes, and other establishments.

2.Reverse osmosis makes water taste and smells better. 

Some tap waters are heavy in minerals, giving your water a distinct smell and taste. 

 

Chlorine and chloramine 

Chlorine and chloramine disinfect and kill bacteria in the water.

The disinfectant by-products in chloramine are less than in chlorine, but they have a longer staying effect in the water.

Although helpful in disinfection, these chemicals leave a nasty and powerful odor and taste  in your water.

Chloramines can cause respiratory problems such as asthma and shortness of breath.

The reverse osmosis water filtration system is more effective than activated carbon alone in removing chloramine.

 

Will reverse osmosis remove the sulfur smell in the water? 

Yes. The reverse osmosis system comes with a carbon pre-filter that adsorbs sulfur, which  causes the rotten egg smell.

In reverse osmosis, compounds and contaminants that alter the taste and smell of water are  removed, giving it a clean, fresh taste, and making it odorless.

Chef Steve Schimoler shared this in an interview:

"The water purified using reverse osmosis (RO) technology provided me with a clean canvas  which allowed the flavors and ingredients I used to shine."

3. Reverse osmosis is better for your aquarium.

How are reverse osmosis systems used in aquariums? 

Whether for home entertainment and aesthetics or commercial use, the reverse osmosis  system has proven beneficial for aquarium owners. 

Most fish species will not thrive or reproduce in an environment different from their natural  habitat. 

 

Dissolved minerals in aquarium water 

Angelfish and other tropical fish will not last in hard water or water containing a high level of  minerals and metals. 

General hardness (GH) measures calcium and magnesium ion levels. 

Depending on the species, fish prefer different levels of GH. 

Saltwater fish are not affected by the GH level compared to freshwater species. The toxic levels of lead, cadmium, and chromium are considerably higher in hard water.

Since the RO water filter removes such minerals, the aquarium water is more conducive for  this aquatic life. 

Arsenic, lead, chlorine, and chloramine in the water and dissolved solids can be toxic to fish. 

This impurity can be removed up to 99% by reverse osmosis, making your aquarium water  safer. 

 

Chlorine 

Though adding chlorine to the water can remove some viruses, protozoa, and bacteria, it is  toxic to fish and aquatic life. 

Chlorine can damage the fish's skin, gills, and internal organs. 

The prefilters remove chlorine from the water before it gets into the membrane in the RO  system and damages it. 

 

Nitrates and phosphates 

The nitrates and phosphates in the water provide fuel for algae to grow. 

Their presence will deplete the oxygen level, suffocating the fish and helpful aquatic plants.  They can interfere with coral growth. 

Reef marine life is more sensitive to nitrates than freshwater fish. 

A nitrate level of 0.25 ppm can deteriorate the health of anemones and crustaceans. An  equal amount of phosphate can hasten the growth of algae. 

Reverse osmosis removes 60–75% of nitrates and 96–98% of phosphates, ensuring the  nitrates and phosphate levels are at a minimum. 

Frequent tank cleaning, and adding mangroves, sand, and rock with nitrogenizing bacteria  can also help keep nitrate levels low. 

 

Silicates 

Gravel algae or silica algae that grow from silicates in the sandy substrate will cover your  aquarium in brown film. 

It will not only make your aquarium look dirty, but will also lower the oxygen level.

Silicates are.01 micrometers in size, so they cannot pass through the reverse osmosis  membrane. 

 

Calcium and magnesium 

Calcium and magnesium make water hard, but they are essential nutrients for aquatic  plants and animals at a healthy level. 

Fish need calcium for bone development and egg hatching. 

The magnesium helps them digest food. 

Reverse osmosis gives aquarium water a good base. It makes it easy to adjust the mineral  levels in the water so that the fish can still get a healthy dose of calcium and magnesium. 

Epsom salt or potassium magnesium sulfate is usually added. 

Crushed coral, cuttlebones, or a Wonder Shell are put in to raise the calcium level.

Reverse osmosis (RO) water pH level 

A sudden change in the water's alkalinity can shock the fish and, in some cases, may result in  their death. 

It is crucial to keep the pH level of the water stable. 

The nitrates and ammonia from the fish’s waste can change the acidity level of the water. Freshwater species thrive at pH levels between 6.5 and 8.5. 

Saltwater fish prefer a more alkaline level of 8.1. 

Most tropical fish thrive in water with a pH level of 6.8 to 7.8, while others thrive in higher or  lower pH levels. 

At a neutral pH, Blue Acara, Rainbow Cichlid, German Blue Ram, and other South American  cichlids grow. 

Fish that live in hard water (e.g., guppies, mollies, rainbow fish, cichlids, and gobies) prefer a  more alkaline environment.

Tetras, barbs, gourami, Corydoras catfish, angelfish, and other soft water-dwelling aquatic  life proliferate in more acidic water levels. 

The pH level of reverse osmosis water is in the healthy range of 5–7. 

 

Adjusting the pH level of the water 

A pH level of 5–7 makes the environment of the aquarium water steadier and more  consistent.  

It is then easy to adjust the acidity or alkalinity of the water from this level, depending on  your aquatic life needs. 

If you want to keep the water more acidic, add one or two pieces of driftwood to the water  and peat moss or pellets to the filter. 

The tannins present in these substances will help lower the pH level. 

To make the water more alkaline, use crushed coral, limestone, coral rock, calcium  carbonate rock, or dolomite gravel as substrate and decoration. 

For aquariums, farms, and other commercial industries, the Crystal Quest Commercial Mid Flow Reverse Osmosis System and Crystal Quest High-Flow Reverse Osmosis System (10,000 GPD–50,000 GPD) provide the reverse osmosis systems you require.

 

Crystal Quest Commercial Mid-Flow Reverse Osmosis System Standard Features: 

• Construction: aluminum, white powder-coated, corrosion-resistant, and lightweight. • TFC membrane in a stainless-steel membrane housing for maximum impurity  rejection and high flow. 
• The Brass Rotary Vane High-Pressure Pump is designed for continuous use and has  built-in protection for loss of feedwater protection. 
• Carbonate Motor with High-Efficiency to regulate permeate versus concentrated  water. 
• The SWP Flow. The meter shows permeate and concentrated water flow. • SWP 0-100 psi. Pre-filter pressure gauge indicator to aid in cartridge replacement on  time. 
• The SWP 0-300 psi pump pressure gauge indicator  
• Pump pressure gauge reading ranges from 120 to 200.
• Low-pressure switch: automatically shuts off the reverse osmosis system motor to  avoid the pump running dry. 
• High-Pressure Tank Switch: Automatically turns off the reverse osmosis system at a  predetermined storage tank pressure. No need for expensive "plug/play". • 1" feed solenoid valve. It automatically shuts off the feed water to the system. • Push-Pull fittings with locking safety clips 

Benefits: 

• Space-saving and compact 
• Components are easily accessible 
• Design that is expandable and lightweight 
• Customizable and fully equipped 
• Pre-plumbed, wired and assembled 
• Low Operating Costs 
• Low Maintenance Costs 
• It's simple to maintain and service 
• Factory Tested and Preserved 
• CE Compliant 
• 1-Year Limited Warranty 
• "Made in the USA" 

Crystal Quest High-Flow Reverse Osmosis System, 10,000 GPD-50,000 GPD Standard  Features: 

• Thin Film Composite Membranes 
• Stainless Steel Membrane Housings 
• A Centrifugal Pump 
• 9x48 Vessel with .5 Micron Zeolite (Turbidity/Sediment Removal) & Coconut Shell • Granulated Activated Carbon 
• Low & High-Pressure Shut-Off Switch 
• Auto Feed Shut-Off 
• Flow Control 
• Feed Pressure Gauges
• Pressure Gauges for the System 
• Cleaning Ports 
• Permeate Flowmeter 
• Concentrate Flowmeter 
• TDS Permeation Display 
• TDS Feed Display 
• Heavy Duty Coated Aluminum Frame 
• C-150 Microprocessor Controller (Ethernet is not standard, but it is available as an • upgrade) 

Benefits: 

• Space-saving and compact 
• Components Are Easily Accessible 
• Design that is expandable and lightweight 
• Customizable and fully equipped 
• Pre-plumbed, wired and assembled 
• Low Operating Costs 
• Low Maintenance Costs 
• Easy maintenance and servicing 
• Factory Tested and Preserved 
• CE Compliant 
• 1-Year Limited Warranty 
• "Made in the USA" 

Automatically Controls: 

• The Motorized Actuated Feed Valve 
• Delayed High-Pressure Pump Start-Up 
• Automatic shutdown when the tank is full 
• Low or High-Pressure Fault Shut-Down 
• Pre-Treatment Lock-Out 
• Feed Water 
• Flush at Shut-Down 
• High-Product 
• TDS Alarm Shutdown 

How much reverse osmosis water do you need for your aquarium? 

The amount of water you need for your aquarium depends on a few factors. First, how big is your aquarium? 

The number of gallons per day (GPD) you need will depend on the tank's size, and if the  reverse osmosis system connects to the storage tank. 

Get an RO system with a higher GPD rating since it can produce clean water faster and on demand. 

Dividing the size of your tank in gallons by the number of days between water changes will  give you the minimum GPD rating you need. 

More purified water comes out by connecting your RO water filtration system to a storage  tank and by pulling it from the storage container when the tank water needs to be changed. 

Consider the type of membrane in the reverse osmosis system. 

The cellulose tri-acetate (CTA) membranes are more resistant to chlorinated water. But the  thin-film composite (TFC) can better handle water pH levels of 8.5 or above. 

Check that your reverse osmosis membranes have FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and  NSF certifications. 

4. Reverse osmosis is better for the environment and your budget.

Reverse osmosis is environment-friendly. It does not require electricity to operate. 

The wastewater filtered out from reverse osmosis can be used to mop the floors, clean  dishes, flush toilets, or water plants that are not delicate. 

Reverse osmosis is sustainable. 

No less than 60 million plastic bottles are thrown in landfills and incinerators daily.  (Container Recycling Institute). 

You do not have to buy water bottles with reverse osmosis purifying your water perpetually. 

That also saves you gas from going to the store and getting a water delivery service, so you  get to reduce your carbon footprint. 

The reverse osmosis water filter system is low-maintenance. 

Most RO systems, such as the Crystal Quest Whole House Reverse Osmosis System, can last  up to 15-20 years so long as the prefilters and post-filters are changed periodically (usually  every six months to a year). 

The RO membrane can be changed every 2-4 years, depending on your usage and water  conditions. 

FAQ's

How does reverse osmosis work step by step? 

With its efficiency in removing harmful contaminants, you may be wondering how the  reverse osmosis system work. 

RO uses sediment and carbon filters that are either prefilters (where water passes through  the filter before passing the membrane) or post-filters (after passing the membrane). 

The 3-stage reverse osmosis filter is frequently used for large-scale water filtration, like in  the case of aquariums. 

For home use and drinking water, five or more stages of reverse osmosis are best. Some manufacturers add new stages to improve and ensure water quality.  

However, there are three essential stages in reverse osmosis to filter out harmful water  particulates. 

Here are the three fundamental stages of reverse osmosis: 

RO Water Filtration System Stages 

 

3-stage Reverse Osmosis 

Stage 1: The Sediment Pre-Filter 

This stage serves as the primary defense and removes the largest particles such as sand, silt,  and rust.

Water impurities eliminated at this stage could damage or clog the carbon filter (in Stage 2)  and the reverse osmosis membrane (in Stage 3). 

Sediment filters cannot remove chemicals, heavy metals, bacteria, or dissolved particulate  matter as these filters have 5-to 10-micron ratings. 

They do not improve the taste or smell of water. 

These filters remove large amounts of matter and sand that can clog your plumbing and  damage your appliances (washing machines, dishwashers, coffee makers, and water  heaters). 

They help extend the life of the whole reverse osmosis system. 

Sediment filters are replaced depending on the quality of your water and the type of water  filter system you use. 

Generally speaking, these filters should be changed every three to six months and are  inexpensive. 

A drop in water pressure is an indication that it is time to change your sediment pre-filter. 

 

Stage 2: Carbon filter 

Before entering the reverse osmosis membrane, the activated carbon in the second stage  adsorbs chlorine and chloramine. 

The first two stages are necessary to avoid damaging the reverse osmosis membrane, which  is the heart of the RO system. 

If not for stages 1 and 2, minerals and dirt can clog the membrane, while chlorine can make  the holes bigger. 

 

Stage 3: The Reverse Osmosis Membrane 

The RO semi-permeable membrane uses either a thin-film composite (TFC) or cellulose  triacetate membrane (CTA). 

This stage removes total dissolved solids (TDS) such as sodium, arsenic, lead, fluoride,  parasitic cysts, and copper. 

The lifespan of the reverse osmosis membrane is up to two years.

 

4-stage reverse osmosis 

The four-stage reverse osmosis system uses the same three filters mentioned above, adding  a carbon block post-filter as the final stage. 

After the water passes through the membrane, another carbon filter polishes the water,  removing pollutants missed in the previous stages, including any odor or taste left in the  water. 

It is recommended to change this filter every 12 months. 

 

5-stage reverse osmosis system 

The 5-stage reverse osmosis usually adds alkaline filters to reduce the acidity of the water. 

Some believe drinking alkaline water has many health benefits, including better immune  support and a slower aging process. However, there is not enough research to support this  claim. 

 

17 stages of water filtration 

The Crystal Quest Reverse Osmosis Under Sink Water Filter offers 17 stages of water  filtration to ensure you get the best quality of pure water. 

Water Travels Through 17 Stages of Filtration: 

STAGE 1 - Water travels through a 5 micron solid carbon cartridge for removing volatile organic carbon compounds (VOC's), insecticides, pesticides and industrial solvents and traps particles larger than 5 micron including sediment, silt, sand and dirt. It also helps to extend the life of the system.

STAGE 2 - Water passes through a 0.020 micron Ultrafiltration (UF) membrane. Ultrafiltration (UF) is an important purification technology used for the production of high-purity water. UF is effective for the removal of colloids, proteins, bacteria, viruses, parasites, protozoa and pyrogens (e.g., gram-negative bacterial endotoxins), other organic molecules larger than 0.020 micron, and most other water contaminants known today. 

STAGE 3 - Water flows through pre one - micron filter pads (1 micron equals 1/25,000th of an inch), which removes suspended particles such as silt, sediment, cyst (Giardia, Cryptosporidium), sand, rust, dirt, and other undissolved matter.

STAGE 4 - Water passes through granulated activated carbon (GAC). GAC is universally recognized and widely used as an effective adsorbent for a wide variety of organic contaminants, such as chlorine (99.9%), chemicals linked to cancer (THM's, benzene) pesticides, herbicides, insecticides, volatile organic compounds (VOC's), PCB's, MTBE's and hundreds of other chemical contaminants that may be present in water, bad taste, and odors from your drinking water. 

STAGE 5 - Water flows through the ion exchange resin, reducing heavy metals such as lead, copper, aluminum, and water hardness.

STAGE 6 & 7 - Water flows through 2 beds of Eagle Redox Alloy®(Oxidation/reduction process) media made of a special high-purity alloy blend of two dissimilar metals - copper and zinc. Representing a new and unique way of water processing medium which by its natural process of electrochemical oxidation/reduction and adsorption action reduces and/or removes many unwanted contaminants from water. It is a major advancement in water treatment technology that works on the electro-chemical and spontaneous-oxidation-reduction (Eagle Redox Alloy®) principles. Chlorine is instantaneously and almost inexhaustibly oxidized.

Iron and hydrogen sulfide are oxidized into insoluble matter and attach to the surface of the media. Heavy metals such as lead, mercury, copper, nickel, chromium, cadmium, aluminum, and other dissolved metals are removed from the water by the natural process of electrochemical process. They are attracted to the surface of the media, much like a magnet. The media inhibits bacterial growth throughout the entire unit. 

STAGE 8 - Water flows through another one-micron filtration pad for further reduction of undesirable particles. The end result is a great reduction or elimination of a wide variety of contaminants.

STAGE 9 - Water passes through a CRYSTAL QUEST® reverse osmosis membrane, which removes and filters particles as small as 1/10,000 of a micron as most inorganic chemicals (such as salts, metals, minerals) most microorganisms including cryptosporidium and giardia, and most inorganic contaminants. 

STAGE 10 & 15 - Water flows through another one - micron filter pads (1 micron equals 1/25,000th of an inch), which removes suspended particles such as silt, sediment, cyst (Giardia, Cryptosporidium), sand, rust, dirt, and other undissolved matter.

STAGE 11 & 12 - Water flows through another bed of media made of a special high-purity alloy blend of two dissimilar metals - copper and zinc. it is a major advancement in water treatment technology that works on the electro-chemical and spontaneous-oxidation-reduction (REDOX) principles. Chlorine is instantaneously and almost inexhaustibly oxidized.

STAGE 13 - Water flows through another ion exchange resin, reducing heavy metals such as lead, copper, aluminum, and water hardness.

STAGE 14 - Water passes through granulated activated carbon (GAC).

STAGE 16 - Water passes through an Ultraviolet Water Sterilizer System manufactured with axial flow reactors in 304 stainless steel. The hard glass germicidal lamps provide an economical way of treating water requiring a 99.99% reduction of bacteria and virus and protozoa. This process is accomplished without adding any harmful chemicals to your drinking water. CRYSTAL QUEST® Ultraviolet Water Sterilizer System is the most ecological way of treating your water.

STAGE 17 - Water travels through a 0.20 micron Ultrafiltration (UF) membrane. Ultrafiltration. UF is effective for the removal of colloids, proteins, bacteria, viruses, parasites, protozoa and pyrogens (e.g., gram-negative bacterial endotoxins), other organic molecules larger than 0.20 micron, and most other water contaminants known today.

 

Are the reverse osmosis filters any good? 

Yes. Each filter in the reverse osmosis system serves a different purpose in each water  filtration stage. The filters can be easily changed and are cost-effective. 

 

Considerations in buying a reverse osmosis system at home 

Before purchasing a reverse osmosis system for your home, you must consider a few  factors.

 

Water pressure 

How is your water pressure? Is it strong? How about your plumbing? 

The membranes and high-pressure pumps used on Crystal Quest Thunder systems require  a continuous flow of water with a minimum feed pressure of 35 psi, which does not exceed 105°F. 

 

Electrical 

The motors used on the Thunder 500, 750, 1000, 1500, 1800, and 2500 systems are  carbonator motors. They come in single-phase 110/220-volt 50/60 hertz configurations. We  recommend that a licensed electrician wire your system to meet local and national electrical  codes (NEC). 

 

Number of restrooms 

If you have 1–1.5 bathrooms, you need a reverse osmosis water system with a 200-300 GPD  flow rate. 

500–2,500 GPD is best for 1–4 bathrooms, and 4,000–7,000 GPD for 5+ bathrooms. 

 

Impurities present 

Get a water analysis test to know what contaminants you need to remove. 

Well water usually contains heavy metals such as arsenic, antimony, cadmium, chromium,  copper, lead, and selenium. 

Reverse osmosis is 95% effective in removing the arsenic in the water. Chlorine may be more prevalent in city water than you realize. 

 

Tank size 

165 gallons (31"D x 56"H) needs 200-300 GPD. 

500-2,500 GPD is suitable for 220 gallons (42" D x 44" H). 

Bigger tanks with 550 gallons (67"D x 44"H) need 4,000-7,000 GPD.

 

Filter location 

You also need to consider where to place the reverse osmosis system. 

There is the Point of Entry (POE) or whole-house water filtration treatment, and an under sink RO water filtration system. 

 

POE 

POEs are installed in the main water line to remove contaminants not only from the drinking  water but also from all water entering the house. 

They filter the water traveling through the piping system and eliminate sediments such as  sand, dust, and rust. 

To know which POE filtration is best for you, identify what kinds of substances are present in  your water. 

The cost of POE or whole-house water filtration depends on the frequency of replacing the  filter cartridge. 

Point of entry filters acts as the first line of prevention in keeping contaminants out of your  water supply. They need to be installed by professionals. 

The Crystal Quest Whole House Reverse Osmosis System is a long-lasting investment with  low operational and maintenance costs. [Link to product] 

Here are other system benefits of the Crystal Quest Whole House Reverse Osmosis Water  Filter: 

• Space-saving and compact 
• Easily accessible components 
• Design that is expandable and lightweight 
• Customizable and fully equipped 
• Low Operational Costs 
• Low maintenance costs 
• It's simple to maintain and service 
• Factory Tested and Preserved 
• CE Compliant 
• "Made in the USA"

 

Under-sink filters 

These water filters are installed directly into an existing water pipe under the sink. 

How often you need to change your under-sink filters depends on the model and your  usage. 

It is best to check the lifespan of the filter model on the label to determine the time you  need to change them. 

Some under-sink filters can remove up to 1,000 unwanted water particles, including chlorine  and bacteria. 

They can filter a large amount of water, can be easily attached, and do not require frequent  replacement. 

You need to consider the size before purchasing because an under-sink RO water filter  system can take up space under your counter. 

Under-sink filters do not need professional installation. 

The Crystal Quest Reverse Osmosis Under Sink Water Filter comes with a complete  installation kit that includes: 

• A European lead-free long-reach designer faucet 
• The CRYSTAL QUEST® 3.2-gallon stainless steel pressurized holding tank has a  capacity of 2.0 gallons and a polypropylene inner liner. 
• All interconnected by color-coded tubes. 
• Filter cartridges 
• Ultrafiltration membrane 

• The reverse osmosis membrane

• Wrenches 
• Installation hardware 

 

Which reverse osmosis system wastes less water? 

Choose a reverse osmosis water filter system with auto shut-off features to save water.

 

Which reverse osmosis system to buy? 

To know which RO system to buy, you must consider your needs (for home or commercial).  

Check your incoming water pressure, budget, water temperature, the TDS present, and the  general hardness of your water.

The reverse osmosis system will not operate well with low water pressure. Cold water also  takes longer to filter. 

 

Will reverse osmosis soften water? 

Hard water is groundwater that has passed through rocks and minerals, so this water  contains a high level of dissolved minerals such as calcium and magnesium. 

Generally speaking, hard water at a safe level is not harmful to your health but can damage  your plumbing and ruin your clothes. 

Reverse osmosis can remove dissolved minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, that  make the water "hard". 

You may need to change the filters in your RO system if you have high levels of minerals and  metals in the water. 

Or better yet, use water softeners in conjunction with an RO water filter in this case. 

 

What can reverse osmosis not remove? 

Reverse osmosis cannot remove chlorine by-products or dissolved gases like carbon dioxide,  methane, or radon. Aeration or granular activated carbon can remove radon.

 

Can reverse osmosis remove microplastics? 

Yes. Because microplastics are smaller than a sesame seed (5 mm), they cannot pass  through the reverse osmosis membrane. 

 

Can reverse osmosis make you sick? 

There is no evidence to show that reverse osmosis water will make you sick.

 

Can reverse osmosis water cause diarrhea? 

No. Reverse osmosis removes bacteria and protozoa that can cause diarrhea. 

 

Can reverse osmosis remove PFAs? 

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are synthetic chemicals. 

These chemicals are used in shampoos, dental floss, cosmetics, nonstick cookware, water resistant materials in clothes, cleaning products, grease-resistant paper, food, and candy  wrappers. 

Exposure to PFAs is linked to thyroid disease, liver damage, infertility, high cholesterol,  obesity, hormone suppression, and cancer. 

Reverse osmosis can remove more than 90% of PFAS in the water. 

 

Reverse osmosis water versus distilled water 

Distilled water lacks minerals like calcium, sodium, and magnesium. Only the hydrogen and  oxygen that make up the water are left. Reverse osmosis water still contains essential  minerals. 

 

Deionization vs. reverse osmosis water filter 

A reverse osmosis system deionizes water by trapping particular ions in its filter. Deionization, on the other hand, uses chemical reactions or ion exchange resins to replace  minerals in the water. 

 

Carbon filtration vs. reverse osmosis 

Carbon filters eliminate taste, odor, and impurities in water through adsorption. It can only 

remove particles as small as 1 micron. 

The RO water filter system can remove 99.9% of contaminants and particles as small as.001  microns.

 

Can reverse osmosis remove radiation? 

The EPA considers reverse osmosis the "best available technology" for removing nuclear  radiation. 

It can draw out alpha and beta particles, radioactive plutonium or strontium, uranium,  radium, and photon emitters. 

Reverse osmosis can filter out up to 99% of these radioactive elements. 

 

Is a reverse osmosis water filter system expensive? 

Reverse osmosis water filters are generally low-maintenance, and the filters you need to  replace regularly are cheap. 

Since they are considered one of the most effective water filtration systems in removing  contaminants, RO systems are usually a bit pricey upfront. 

But you can save more in the long run. You don’t have to keep buying bottled water and  paying for water delivery. 

The reverse osmosis system is easy to install and maintain. Provided that the prefilters and  membranes are changed occasionally, this water filter should last 15-20 years. 

 

Final thoughts 

Reverse osmosis does not guarantee 100% removal of water impurities, but it does remove  the majority of contaminants. 

It removes 95%–99% of inorganic materials and 99.9% of organic substances such as  bacteria and viruses. 

Unclean water can damage your piping and fixtures and can bring serious health risks. If you use contaminated water in your business, it can destroy your livelihood. The reverse osmosis water filter can help you save money ultimately. Don’t let dirty water stop you from getting the quality of life you deserve. Invest in a reverse osmosis water filter system. It can surely make your life better.