Reverse osmosis (RO) water filters are becoming increasingly popular in New Zealand due to their effectiveness in removing impurities and contaminants from water. These filters use a process called reverse osmosis to remove dissolved solids, organic compounds, and other harmful substances from water, resulting in clean and safe drinking water.
Let’s discover what’s so great about reverse osmosis filters, and see whether they’re a good fit for your home.
What is Reverse Osmosis?
Reverse osmosis is a water purification process that uses a semi-permeable membrane to filter out unwanted particles and contaminants, resulting in clean drinking water. In this process, applied pressure is used to overcome the natural osmotic pressure, pushing water from high concentrations of contaminants to low concentrations, forcing contaminated water through the filter, and leaving only pure water behind.
The stages of filtration include sediment filter, pre-carbon block, reverse osmosis membrane, and post-carbon filter. The sediment filter removes the largest particles, pre-carbon block prevents larger particles from passing through and prevents chemical compounds from passing to the next filter, the reverse osmosis membrane removes molecules heavier than water, and the post-carbon filter polishes the water.
Benefits of Reverse Osmosis Water Filters
Removes impurities:
Reverse osmosis water filters are highly effective in removing impurities such as lead, chlorine, fluoride, nitrates, arsenic, and bacteria from the water. These impurities can be harmful to our health, and they can affect the taste, smell, and appearance of the water. RO water filters use a semi-permeable membrane to filter out these impurities and produce clean and safe drinking water. Removing these impurities can make the water safer and healthier to drink, and it can also improve the taste, smell, and appearance of the water.The impurities are discarded to the waste pipe therefore leaving you with only pure water.
Improved taste:
In addition to removing impurities, reverse osmosis water filters can also improve the taste of water by removing unpleasant odours, flavours, and chemicals. For example, chlorine is commonly used to disinfect municipal water supplies, but it can also give the water a strong and unpleasant taste and smell. RO water filters can remove chlorine and other chemicals, resulting in water that tastes and smells much better.
Convenience:
Reverse osmosis water filter systems generally require a plumber to install. Once installed, the RO system will purify your water automatically as it flows through the system. RO water filters don't require any electricity, making them very efficient and cost-effective.
Cost-effective:
Reverse osmosis water filters can be more cost-effective than other water filtration methods in the long run, especially for households that rely on bottled water. While the initial cost of an RO water filter may be higher than other types of filters, such as single carbon filters, the cost per gallon of purified water is often lower. They can produce large quantities of purified water on average up to 90 litres per day. Replacement filters intervals vary from 3 years to 6 months typically.
Who Could Benefit from Reverse Osmosis Water Filters?
People with compromised immune systems:
People with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or with HIV/AIDS, may benefit from reverse osmosis water filters as they provide an extra layer of protection against waterborne viruses.
People with allergies or sensitivities:
Those with allergies or sensitivities to chemicals such as chlorine and fluoride may benefit from RO water filters as they can remove these substances from the water.
Families with young children:
Reverse osmosis water filters can provide safe drinking water for families with young children who are more susceptible to waterborne illnesses or skin conditions.
Individuals who live in areas with poor water quality:
People living in areas with poor water quality may benefit from RO water filters as they can remove impurities and contaminants that may be present in the water supply.
Reverse Osmosis Water Filters From NZ Pump & Water Filters
Overall, reverse osmosis water filters are a great investment for anyone looking to improve the quality of their drinking water. They are cost-effective, easy to use, and can provide safe and healthy water for a wide range of people, including those with compromised immune systems, allergies or sensitivities, families with young children, and individuals living in areas with poor water quality.
If you're interested in learning more about reverse osmosis water filters, check out our full range here!