Debunking Myths About Reverse Osmosis

Over the years, reverse osmosis (RO) filtration has evolved in different ways. 

It is powerful enough to turn wastewater and seawater into a palatable drink. It is efficient enough for domestic and daily use. 

As users and advocates of RO filtration grow, misconceptions about it have also sprouted everywhere. 

What is RO Filtration?

It would be easy to get swayed by myths when you don’t understand the real score about reverse osmosis. 

Before hashing out the most common misconceptions surrounding it, you should know what this filtration system means first. 

Reverse Osmosis (RO) water filtration is a technique that uses high pressure to drive water through semipermeable surfaces or layers to separate dirt, debris, bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and minerals from water. 

These materials contaminate water and cause a host of health issues ranging from cardiovascular diseases and high blood pressure to skin issues and developmental problems. 

RO filtered water purifies water through different stages depending on its specifications. 

For instance, Crystal Quest’s Whole House Compact Water Filter features a 6-stage water purification system. Other RO filters have a more complex system in place. 

For example, the Under Sink Water Filter - 3000MP by Crystal Quest features 16 stages of water filtration. It finishes with an Ultrafiltration membrane that removes viral, parasitic, and bacterial contaminants. 

4 Myths About RO Filtration Debunked 

Are you intimidated by the idea of getting an RO filter? Don’t be! 

Understanding what it means is half the battle. Now, debunking the misconceptions surrounding it will help you appreciate its advantages and practicality. 

Here are 4 myths about reverse osmosis uncovered: 

1. RO filters will reduce your mineral intake. RO reduces the amount of calcium and magnesium compounds in water. If this alarms you, remember that water is not the only source of these minerals.

   Your primary source of vital nutrients should still be food. Milk and leafy vegetables are better sources of calcium. Peanuts, pumpkin seeds, and spinach are great sources of magnesium.

   Drinking water without these minerals should not pose any health issue. On the contrary, water that is free from calcium and magnesium deposits may actually be better. In the long run, these minerals can damage pipes and cause blockage or corrosion.  

2. RO filtration makes the water acidic. Reverse osmosis removes alkaline minerals in the process. While this may alter the pH level of water, it is not something to be concerned about. In fact, other drinks such as citrus beverages and coffee are also acidic in nature.

   It is important to note that the body has natural mechanisms to balance your pH levels. The advantages of drinking water filtered by RO still outweigh the effects of its altered pH level.

3. RO filters can be replaced by water softeners. People who are not willing to spend on reverse osmosis filtration systems may be tempted to look for cheaper alternatives in the form of water softeners.

   While water softener is also a form of filtration, its primary function is to reduce the amount of calcium and magnesium content in water. It is best for filtering water to use in the laundry and the bathroom.

   The water you need for drinking needs a more thorough filtration system such as found in reverse osmosis. Unlike RO filters, water softeners does not remove other harmful contaminants such as disease-causing viruses, bacteria, and parasites.

   In addition, water softeners do little to improve the taste and smell of unclean water. 

4. RO filters are expensive. RO filters can range from $300 to $1000 depending on their specifications and features. If you are worried about your monthly electric bill, know that some RO filters do not even require electricity to work!

   Investing in an RO filtration system is not expensive if you consider the alternative. 

   You drink 8 glasses of water every day on average. You use water for cooking, making coffee, and preparing food. You need water for personal hygiene and to keep your home clean.

   Imagine if your only access to clean water is buying bottled ones from the supermarket. It will cause a huge dent in your budget! On the other hand, you can’t just risk consuming or using unclean water lest it will result in serious health complications.

Lots of worries about RO filtration stem from misconceptions about it. Do not let these mere misconceptions prevent you from accessing safe and healthier water.