RO Water Purifiers: Separating Fact from Fiction

With countless water purification options available, it’s no wonder there’s confusion about RO water purifiers and Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems. At Alfaa UV, we’ve been in the water purification game for over two decades, witnessing firsthand the common questions and concerns surrounding RO water purifiers and RO technology. Let’s clear the air and help you make an informed decision.

Is RO purification truly the latest and best technology for water purification as some leading companies claim?

Reverse Osmosis (RO) technology is often marketed as the ultimate solution for water purification, but it’s important to understand its capabilities and limitations.

At Alfaa UV, we can affirm that RO is neither the newest technology nor a one-size-fits-all solution. RO is fundamentally a separation technology designed to remove dissolved impurities, salts, and minerals from water by forcing it through a semi-permeable membrane under high pressure. This process produces two streams: permeate (purified water) and reject (water containing the concentrated impurities).

RO is highly effective for reducing dissolved salts and minerals commonly found in hard or brackish groundwater, making it a proven method for addressing these specific issues. However, it’s crucial to note that RO alone may not effectively disinfect water from pathogens responsible for diseases like gastroenteritis, cholera, typhoid, and hepatitis A. Therefore, while RO can be an essential part of a comprehensive water treatment system, it may need to be complemented by other technologies to ensure complete purification and safety.

What types of dissolved impurities are removed by a RO water purifier?

Reverse Osmosis (RO) water purifiers are highly effective at reducing various dissolved impurities found in water. The RO membranes substantially reduce the presence of calcium and magnesium salts, as well as minerals like iron, fluorides, lead, and arsenic.

These impurities collectively contribute to the Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) level in the water. The effectiveness of a RO purifier in removing these contaminants can be quantitatively assessed through the TDS measurement. However, to determine the exact concentration of each specific dissolved impurity, a detailed water analysis conducted in a laboratory maybe necessary.

Also Read: Everything you need to know about RO water purification

What is the ideal TDS level for drinking water, and when should one consider using an RO water purifier?

The Bureau of Indian Standards recommends a maximum TDS level of 500 ppm for drinking water. RO is advised when TDS levels exceed 500 ppm. However, in regions where contaminants such as arsenic, lead, or iron are present, RO purification may be necessary even when TDS levels are below 500 ppm. Under normal circumstance a TDS level of 50-60 ppm is considered ideal.

To make an informed decision, we recommend conducting a chemical analysis of your water. This will help identify specific contaminants and determine if an RO purifier is necessary for your water supply.

Does a RO water purifier kill all germs present in water?

RO purifiers are primarily designed to separate dissolved salts from water. While RO membranes can filter out most bacteria and viruses due to their small pore size, over time, these microorganisms can form a biofilm on the membrane. This biofilm can damage the membrane, creating larger pores that allow bacteria and viruses to pass through into the purified water tank, compromising the disinfection process.

To ensure complete disinfection, it is crucial to follow the RO process with a UV disinfection stage. This combination effectively removes dissolved impurities and kills any remaining microorganisms, providing pure and safe drinking water.

Does RO purification strip the water of necessary minerals that are good for the body?

Yes, RO membranes typically reduce the TDS content by 90%. For instance, if the input water has a TDS of 200 ppm, the TDS after RO purification will be around 20 ppm. If the input water has a TDS of 600 ppm, the permeate will have a TDS of about 60 ppm.

The ideal TDS level for drinking water is 50 ppm. Water with TDS below 50 ppm may lack essential minerals that are beneficial for our bodies. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that your drinking water maintains an appropriate TDS level to retain these necessary minerals.

Is it true that RO purification wastes a lot of water?

Yes, commercial RO membranes used in domestic water purifiers are typically only 30-40% efficient. This means that for every 100 liters of water processed, 60-70 liters are wasted and form the reject stream, which usually goes down the drain.

To mitigate this wastage, RO companies often advise collecting the reject water for non-potable uses, such as watering plants or cleaning. However, this can be a tedious task requiring changes in plumbing and storage facilities. Unfortunately, many users are either unaware of this issue or reluctant to implement these conservation measures.

Does an RO water purifier require maintenance?

Absolutely! Due to the intricate nature of reverse osmosis (RO) systems—comprising components like membranes, pumps, filters, gaskets, and UV lamps—regular maintenance is essential to ensure optimal performance. Key consumable parts such as membranes, filters, and UV lamps need to be replaced periodically; otherwise, the system may struggle to provide pure water.

It’s important to note that maintaining a RO water purifier can be a significant investment, averaging around 15% of the initial capital cost each year. However, this investment is crucial for maintaining water quality and the longevity of your purifier. For a reliable source of clean drinking water, routine maintenance is a worthwhile commitment!

In conclusion, understanding the importance of water purification and the functionality of RO water purifiers is essential for ensuring access to clean and safe drinking water. Regular maintenance and proper care can significantly enhance the efficiency and lifespan of your purifier, allowing you to enjoy pure water without worry.

At Alfaa UV, we are committed to providing high-quality water purification solutions tailored to your needs. With our expertise, you can rest assured that you are making an informed choice for your health and well-being. For any further questions or to explore our range of products, feel free to reach out to us. Together, let’s make pure water a reality!