Reverse osmosis processes water by separating it into two containers of different concentrations. Each container is closed with a semi-permeable membrane. When water flows into one container, it passes through the other, and impurities are screened out. The water that is left in the system is then stored in a storage tank. When the tank is full, an automatic shut-off valve triggers to prevent any more water from entering. Another valve acts as a check valve, preventing reject water from flowing down the drain line.
Many reverse osmosis systems can recover about 75% to 80% of the feed water, and sometimes as high as 90%. But as the process scales up, the effectiveness of contaminant removal tends to decrease. As wastewater recovery increases, the cost and energy required to maintain the process increases.
A leak in the system is a warning sign that there is a problem. Check if the valve is closing properly. If it doesn’t, it means that the reverse osmosis system isn’t working properly. A dripping faucet indicates a loose component, which can easily be fixed. If the leak is coming from the faucet stem, then the stem needs to be replaced.
A reverse osmosis system removes harmful contaminants from water, reducing the risk of health complications. Unlike other water filtration systems, it is free of chlorine and fluoride, which can be toxic and dangerous to our health, and are naturally present in our water supply.
