What Is an RO System? And How Does an RO System Work?
In today's life, people are paying more and more attention to having access to clean and safe drinking water. One of the most effective ways to achieve this goal is through drinking water filtration through a reverse osmosis (RO) system. RO systems are well known for their ability to remove a variety of contaminants from water, making it safe to drink. But what exactly is an RO system and how does it work? This article will delve into the details of RO technology while exploring how Ecoviva's countertop and under-sink RO systems can provide you with pure water in your home.
What is a Reverse Osmosis (RO) System?
A reverse osmosis (RO) system is a water filtration technology designed to remove impurities from water by forcing it through a semi-permeable membrane. The membrane acts as a barrier, allowing water molecules to pass through while blocking larger contaminants such as salt, bacteria, and harmful chemicals.
Because RO systems are highly efficient at purifying water, they are widely used in residential and commercial settings. They can remove up to 99% of contaminants and are one of the most reliable ways to ensure safe drinking water.
Components of an RO System
RO systems are typically made up of several basic components, each of which plays a vital role in the purification process:
Pre-filters: These are the initial filters that remove larger particles like sediment, chlorine, and other contaminants. Pre-filters protect the RO membrane from potential damage and extend its life.
RO membrane: At the heart of the system is the RO membrane, which is where the magic happens. It allows water molecules to pass through while capturing contaminants as small as 0.0001 microns.
Post-filter: After the water passes through the RO membrane, it is further polished by a post-filter (usually an activated carbon filter) to remove any remaining taste or odor.
Storage tank: Given that the RO process can be slow, many water filters on the market have a storage tank where the purified water is stored, ensuring that you always have clean water available.
How does an RO system work?
The reverse osmosis process is based on the principle of osmosis, where water naturally moves from an area of low solute concentration to an area of high solute concentration through a semi-permeable membrane. In reverse osmosis, pressure is applied to the concentrating side of the membrane, forcing the water to move in the opposite direction, and filtering out impurities.
Here is a step-by-step breakdown of how an RO system works:
Water Input: Tap water enters the system and passes through a pre-filter, which removes large particles like sediment and chlorine, protecting the RO membrane.
Pressure Application: The pre-filtered water is then pressurized and pushed through the RO membrane. This pressure is essential to driving the water molecules through the membrane and leaving the contaminants behind.
Filtration: As the water passes through the RO membrane, contaminants are blocked and flushed away as waste, while the purified water continues on its way.
Post-Filtration: The filtered water passes through a post-filter, such as activated carbon, to remove any remaining taste, odor, or contaminants, ensuring the water is clean and refreshing.
Storage: The purified water is stored in a tank and is available when needed. This storage method ensures a steady supply of clean water.
Dispensing: When you turn on the water filter, the stored water flows out, providing you with safe, pure drinking water.
Ecoviva Countertop and Under-Sink RO Systems
To meet the demand for RO water filters, Ecoviva continues to develop RO technology and offers a range of RO systems designed to meet different needs and spaces, ensuring that you always have access to pure water, whether at home or in the office.
Countertop RO System: The Ecoviva Countertop RO System is ideal for those who want the convenience of a portable water purification system, with a compact design and no installation required. Simply plug it in, press the button, and you have RO-filtered drinking water. No complicated plumbing is required to provide high-quality pure water. It is perfect for renters or anyone who needs a flexible clean water solution.
Under-Sink RO System: For a more permanent solution, Ecoviva's Under-Sink RO System is a great choice. Installed under your kitchen sink, the system is out of sight but always available, delivering purified water directly to a dedicated faucet. It is ideal for homeowners looking for a long-term water purification solution that doesn't take up counter space.
Both systems use advanced filtration technology to remove contaminants, ensuring the water you drink is safe, clean, and refreshing.