Reverse osmosis removes contaminants from water molecules through reverse osmosis filtration. The system eliminates a molecular compound smaller than water. A reverse osmosis system uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove impurities and sediments from water, such as iron, fluorine, lead, arsenic, cadmium, chlorine, etc.
Reverse osmosis systems use osmotic pressure to force water through semi-preamble membranes with tiny pores. Water passes through these pores, but larger particles do not. This allows the water to pass through while retaining all of the dissolved solids in the water. The membrane is then placed in an area where it will collect the purified water. In some cases, the purified water may still contain small amounts of minerals; therefore, an additional polishing filter and mineral filter are required before drinking the water.
Is the RO system removes essential minerals from water?
Yes, reverse osmosis removes some essential minerals from water. These include calcium, magnesium, fluoride, etc. The removal rate of the RO system is equal to contamination and minerals. That means the RO system removes approximately 97% of contamination and minerals.
Reverse Osmosis Systems are used to desalinate saltwater; in other words, they remove the dissolved solids (salts) from the water, leaving you with fresh drinking water. A Reverse Osmosis System will not work on contaminated water or soft water as it does not filter out contaminants that may be present. So, sediment and carbon filters must be before the reverse osmosis membrane.
The most important question is, if reverse osmosis removes essential minerals, how can we recommend it? Take a look at a glance-
| Is the RO system removes essential minerals from water? | Yes |
| Is drinking water the only source of minerals for our body? | No |
| What is the main source of minerals in our body? | Food |
| How to compensate for the minerals that were filtered out? | Eating vegetables is enough for minerals |
| How can we compensate for minerals from RO water only? | Using additional mineral filters |
| Is RO removes all the contaminants from the water? | Yes |
| Is there any more effective filtration system than RO? | No |
| Can boiled water destroy heavy metals like arsenic, cadmium, lead, etc.? | No |
| Is there any filtration that provides the best taste of water than RO? | No |
| Finally, Is RO water bad for human health? | No |
Compensate minerals of RO water
RO filtration removes some important minerals from water. However, there are no perfect alternatives to RO for thorough purification. To make up for the lost minerals, two effective solutions are available:
- Mineral Filter: You can use a mineral filter to add essential minerals back into the water after it’s been purified by RO. This helps ensure you get the necessary minerals in your drinking water.
- Dietary Minerals: Another way to compensate for lost minerals is by getting them from the food you eat. A well-balanced diet can provide your body with the minerals it needs.
If you use both of these solutions, the mineral filter and a balanced diet are excellent ways to ensure you maintain the right mineral balance for your health.
RO is the most effective at removing contaminants
The main advantage of using reverse osmosis over distillation is that less energy is required to produce the same amount of water. Distillation requires more energy because the heat has to travel up the column and down again. With reverse osmosis, you only need one step to eliminate the impurities. In addition, you don’t have to worry about the temperature of your water as well. For example, a reverse osmosis system consumes electricity equal to a mobile phone charger.
Contaminated water
Contaminated water contains impurities that can cause illness. The most common contaminants in tap water are chlorine, chloramines, iron, manganese, copper, lead, arsenic, nitrates, and radon. Other contaminants include animal feces, algae, bacteria, parasites, viruses, industrial pollutants, and naturally occurring radioactive materials.
Contaminants can enter your home’s plumbing through cracks and holes in pipes, faulty faucets, drains, and toilets. They can also get into your home through leaks in your roof, walls, floors, windows, doors, sinks, tubs, showers, toilets, dishwashers, washing machines, dryers, and air conditioners.
Reverse osmosis removes all the contaminants from water and ensures the safest water to drink. The effectiveness of RO filtration is 97% to 99%. There is no filtration method that is more effective than the RO system.
Reverse osmosis has the best taste
Distilled water tastes very different from tap water. Tap water often contains chlorine which gives it a bitter taste. Chlorine also makes the water cloudy. This is because when you drink distilled water, you’re consuming chemicals. On the other hand, when you drink reverse osmosis water, you’re getting pure water that’s free of any chemical additives.
Most people will describe reverse osmosis water as slightly acidic and flat – or as having almost no taste. The reason for this is the lack of minerals in the water. Since the water is put through a semipermeable membrane, it also filters out minerals naturally occurring in drinking water.
However, reverse osmosis water is naturally slightly lower on the pH scale; thus, it can taste slightly acidic. The usual range of pH in water is 7 to 8. In contrast, purified water produced by RO may have a pH of 6 to 7.
Have you ever tasted rainwater? The taste of RO-purified water and rainwater are very similar. The question is, if the RO water is entirely safe, then why it’s taste differ from usual water? The answer is straightforward, and we are used to drinking boiled water, semi-purified water, or tap water. But these water are not entirely safe from germs and heavy impurities. That is why we feel a little different at RO water.
Reverse osmosis is more energy efficient
When you boil water, you lose a lot of energy. So if you want to boil water for tea or coffee, you’ll have to spend a lot of time heating the pot and waiting for it to boil. But if you use reverse osmosis instead, you can get hot water quickly without wasting much energy.
Distillation is another water purification system that involves heating water until vapor forms. This steam is then condensed back into liquid form. It’s also known as “deionized” water. Distilled water is used to make soap, clean glassware, sanitize food, make medicines, perfume, etc.
On the other hand, The purpose of reverse osmosis is to remove dissolved solids from water. Therefore, RO water can use for many purposes, including drinking water production, water recycling, desalination, irrigation, wastewater treatment, etc.
Both methods effectively remove impurities from water, but RO has several advantages over distillation. For example, RO is more cost-effective than distillation and produces higher-quality water. In addition, RO requires little electricity, whereas distillation requires high electricity.
RO is Environmentally Friendly. Because RO produces clean water, it reduces pollution. It also saves money on bottled water since it doesn’t require plastic bottles.
RO filters reduce TDS
TDS stands for Total Dissolved Solids. The unit of this TDS is ppm (parts per million) per milliliter of water. TDS measures how many ions are present in the water. All the solid substances are dissolved in water, which increases the TDS.
Most people think of TDS as being bad, but it isn’t necessarily so. Some people like their water to be high in TDS because they believe it helps keep them hydrated. However, too much TDS can cause problems such as kidney stones. RO filters remove TDS from the water, making it safe for drinking.
The lower the TDS, the more water is highly purified. For example, the reverse osmosis system removes the TDS up to 97% percent. That shows water is entirely drinkable.
How is TDS calculated?
RO systems generally reduce TDS by a significant percentage, typically ranging from 92% to 98%. In the example provided, we assumed a TDS reduction rate of 97% to demonstrate how an RO system can effectively reduce TDS in water. This rate is within the typical range of RO system performance.
Here’s how RO systems reduce TDS in numeric results:
- Initial TDS Level: Let’s assume the initial TDS level in the water source is 300 ppm (parts per million). This is relatively typical for tap water in many areas.
- RO Filtration Efficiency: RO systems are known for their high filtration efficiency. They can remove up to 97% of the TDS from the water.
- TDS Reduction: To calculate the reduction in TDS, you can use the following formula:
- TDS Reduction (%) = [(Initial TDS – TDS after RO) / Initial TDS] x 100
- TDS Reduction (%) = [(300 ppm – TDS after RO) / 300 ppm] x 100
TDS After RO: Using the formula, you can determine the TDS level after the RO filtration:
TDS After RO = Initial TDS x (1 – RO Removal Percentage)
- TDS After RO = 300 ppm x (1 – 0.97) = 300 ppm x 0.03 = 9 ppm
So, in this example, an RO system would reduce the TDS in the water from an initial level of 300 ppm to a final level of approximately 9 ppm. This shows that RO systems are highly effective at removing dissolved solids from water, resulting in water that is highly purified and safe for drinking.
You should note that the actual reduction in TDS may vary depending on the specific RO system and the quality of the source water. RO systems are commonly used to produce high-quality, low-TDS water for various purposes, including drinking, cooking, and industrial applications.
Reverse Osmosis (RO) keeps the devices safe
One of the key benefits of using Reverse Osmosis (RO) water is that it helps protect your appliances. RO water is free of minerals that could cause scale build-up inside your devices and other plumbing fixtures. As the scale builds up, the appliance’s efficiency can reduce, leading to a shorter lifespan and increased repair bills. When using RO water, you can be sure that your devices will be kept in top condition and last longer.
RO Water Relieves thirst quickly
One of the most significant benefits of RO water is that it quenches thirst quickly. RO water is naturally free from minerals, salts, and pollutants, making it a much purer form than most other sources. This makes the water easier for our bodies to absorb, allowing us to replenish our fluids more quickly and efficiently. Additionally, RO water has a neutral pH, making it much more pleasant to drink than other water sources.
Cook food early and safely
Do you know RO water is safe and reduces your cooking time? The water molecules that go through RO filtration are smaller, more evenly distributed, and can penetrate food more efficiently. This means that the water heats up faster, making it much easier to cook food quickly. You have already read that RO water is entirely safe. So use RO water for your cooking without any hesitation.
RO water nourishes food
RO water is much better for cooking. When you use RO water in cooking, the food flavors are just fantastic. Furthermore, because RO water is free of chlorine, it helps keep our food fresh for extended periods. Indeed, RO water improves the taste of your meals.
Maintains good oral health
The contaminated water is bad for our oral health. Dirty water can cause cavities and gum disease. At the same time, RO water reduces tooth decay and bad breath risk.
In addition to brushing and flossing regularly, drinking RO water is an excellent way to keep teeth and gums healthy. The minerals and compounds in RO water can help strengthen our tooth enamel. RO water helps protect against cavities.
Myths and facts about RO water
There are some myths about Reverse Osmosis water. But to be honest, most of the tales were not scientifically proven. Common myths about RO water-
It is often confused with distilled water, produced by a different process.
Myth: RO water is not safe for consumption
Fact: RO water is much safer than tap water, as the filtration process removes contaminants that may be present in tap water.
Myth: RO water has a bad taste
Fact: RO water does not have a bad taste; it can even improve the taste of water.
Myth: Water is the primary source of minerals
Fact: Water is not the primary source of minerals, but food is the primary source of minerals.
Myth: Demineralised water can not be mineralized
Fact: Demineralised water can be remineralized using an additional mineral filter or drop.
Myth: RO water is not safe to drink because it is Acidic
Fact: Ro water is a little acidic as a lack of pH. But it does not make water unsafe.
Do I need a RO filter to get clean drinking water at home?
Yes! A reverse osmosis water filtration system is essential for removing contaminants from your tap water. You can use a simple RO system instead of a gravity-fed water filtration. A gravity-fed system consists of a storage tank connected to a faucet. Unfortunately, these filters are unsafe enough as they can not purify water at a molecular level.
What is the best type of RO filter for my needs?
The best type of RO filter includes an additional mineral filter and Ultraviolet (UV) lights. Therefore, make sure your RO system has an option to remineralize the water also UV lights to remove bacteria from the water.
What are the significant layers of RO filtration?
The first layer of the RO system removes large particles, including sediment, rust, and soap scum. The second layer removes smaller particles, including bacteria and viruses. Furthermore, the third layer removes dissolved solids and heavy metals. Finally, the polishing and mineral filters increase the water’s taste and remineralize the water.
How do I know what size RO filter I need?
The number of gallons per day (GPD) tells how fast the water will flow through the filter. The higher the GPD rating, the faster the water will pass through the filter. The total volume of the filter determines the capacity of the RO system. For example, 50 GPD (189 Litter/Day) is enough for home use.
Is there anything else I need to consider before buying an RO filter?
It’s essential to choose a quality product. Look for a manufacturer who has been around for a long time and has a reputation for producing reliable products. Also, look for a warranty. Many manufacturers offer warranties ranging from one year to a lifetime.
Is a whole-house Reverse Osmosis system necessary?
A whole-house reverse osmosis system is not necessary for most households. Some experts recommend against using a whole-home system unless you’re planning to live in the house for more than five years. This is because the initial investment may not justify the cost of running the entire system. Instead, you might consider installing a point-of-use system. These systems provide purified water directly where it’s needed. They typically consist of a minor, portable unit that connects to your kitchen faucet.
Where can I buy Reverse Osmosis systems?
You can find reverse osmosis systems at home improvement stores and online. If you’d prefer to shop online, make sure to read reviews about the company and its products.
Can we drink RO water regularly?
Yes, you can. Reverse osmosis water has not had many side effects that anybody should avoid. Instead, it is considered the best method for drinking water filtration.
Why should I use water softeners?
Water softeners help reduce mineral buildup in your plumbing. Mineral deposits form when hard water passes through the pipes and cause them to corrode over time. When this happens, your lines become brittle and could crack or leak. Using a water softener helps prevent these problems. It also makes your water softer, so you don’t have to strain your hands while washing dishes.
Is RO water better than normal water?
Yes! RO water is cleaner and healthier than regular tap water. It contains fewer impurities, making it safer to drink. However, if you want to be extra careful, you can use bottled water instead. Bottled water is safe to drink but costs more money.
Is RO water good for the kidney?
RO water is excellent for people with kidney disease. It removes many minerals and other substances that are unhealthy for the kidneys. However, it doesn’t replace dialysis or medication. Talk to your doctor first if you think you have kidney disease.
What is the difference between distilled water and RO water?
Distilled water is free of minerals and other impurities. It comes from steam distillation, which uses heat to separate pure water molecules from other compounds. The process leaves behind only hydrogen and oxygen gas. On the other hand, RO water passes through a semi-preamble membrane to filter safe water.
Is RO water good for hair?
Yes! Many people use RO water as an alternative to shampoo. It cleanses your scalp without stripping away natural oils. You can also add a few drops of essential oil to your water to give it a pleasant scent.
Does RO water work on stains?
Yes! RO filters remove dirt and debris from your drinking water. As a result, stains will wash out more accessible and faster.
Are there any side effects of RO water?
There aren’t any known negative side effects associated with using RO water. However, you should always use a good quality RO system with remineralized filters.
Final Words
The benefits of RO water are numerous. It offers an affordable and safe way to get purified water for consumption, cooking, cleaning, and other purposes. Reverse Osmosis is more effective than other water purification methods and can help reduce the risk of many illnesses. Additionally, RO water is easy to store and transport, making it the most convenient and cost-effective water purification solution.
Reverse osmosis is not bad for human health. But RO indeed removes some essential minerals from water. But the good news is that demineralized water can be remineralized using a mineral filter. However, it is not mandatory to add a mineral filter. Fewer minerals in water are not harmful to human health.
Hasan Al Sarker is a Reverse Osmosis Specialist. He has worked for many years to ensure safe drinking water for all. His research paper has been published in several journals, including Issue, Medium, and Slideshare. He is recognized as a water doctor among specialists though he did not attend medical college.
Besides working as a researcher of reverse osmosis technology, he is also very fancy with the kitchen and cooking. His guides are reading thousands of people every day. As a head of content, he is responsible for all the published articles at RO System Reviews.