Debunking Common Myths about Reverse Osmosis Technology
Reverse osmosis (RO) technology has been around since the 1950s and has become a popular method for water purification. Despite its effectiveness, there are still many myths surrounding the technology. In this article, we will debunk some of the most common myths about RO technology and provide accurate information backed by scientific research.
Myth #1: Reverse Osmosis Removes Minerals from Water
Many people believe that RO technology removes essential minerals from water, making it unhealthy to drink. While it is true that RO technology removes minerals from water, it does not remove all minerals. In fact, RO membranes are designed to remove only certain minerals that can be harmful to human health, such as lead, arsenic, and fluoride. The minerals that are essential to human health, such as calcium and magnesium, are not removed by RO technology.
Furthermore, minerals make up a very small percentage of the total dissolved solids (TDS) in water. TDS is the measure of all the inorganic and organic substances in water, including minerals, salts, and other impurities. RO technology removes up to 99% of TDS, including harmful contaminants such as bacteria, viruses, and heavy metals. Drinking water that is free of harmful contaminants is much more important for human health than the small amount of minerals that are removed by RO technology.
Myth #2: Reverse Osmosis Wastes Water
Another common myth about RO technology is that it wastes a lot of water. It is true that RO systems do produce a certain amount of wastewater, which is used to flush out the impurities that are removed from the water. However, the amount of wastewater produced by an RO system is much lower than many people believe. In fact, modern RO systems can produce up to four gallons of purified water for every one gallon of wastewater.
Furthermore, many RO systems are designed to be more water-efficient than traditional water filters. For example, eWater‘s RO systems use a patented technology called «smart water management» that minimizes water waste by constantly adjusting the system’s water recovery rate based on the quality of the incoming water. This technology can reduce water waste by up to 80% compared to traditional RO systems.
Myth #3: Reverse Osmosis is Expensive to Maintain
Some people believe that RO systems are expensive to maintain, requiring frequent filter changes and repairs. While it is true that RO systems require regular maintenance, the cost of maintenance is relatively low compared to the benefits of having clean, purified water.
RO systems typically require filter changes every six to twelve months, depending on the quality of the incoming water and the size of the system. Filter replacements are relatively inexpensive and can be done by the homeowner in most cases. Additionally, many RO systems come with warranties that cover repairs and replacements for several years after purchase.
Myth #4: Reverse Osmosis is Slow and Inefficient
Another common myth about RO technology is that it is slow and inefficient, producing only a small amount of purified water per hour. While it is true that RO systems produce water at a slower rate than traditional water filters, they are much more efficient at removing impurities from water.
RO systems can produce up to 75 gallons of purified water per day, depending on the size of the system and the quality of the incoming water. This is more than enough water for most households, and the quality of the purified water is much higher than that produced by traditional water filters.
Myth #5: Reverse Osmosis Alters the Taste of Water
Some people believe that RO technology alters the taste of water, making it less palatable. While it is true that RO technology removes some of the minerals that give water its taste, the difference in taste is often negligible.
In fact, many people prefer the taste of RO water because it is free of the impurities that can give water an unpleasant taste or odor. Additionally, RO systems can be equipped with post-filters that add minerals back into the water after it has been purified, improving its taste and nutritional value.
Conclusion
Reverse osmosis technology is a highly effective method for purifying water, and many of the myths surrounding it are simply not true. RO systems do remove some minerals from water, but only those that can be harmful to human health. They do produce wastewater, but the amount is much lower than many people believe, and modern systems are designed to be water-efficient. Maintenance costs are relatively low, and RO systems are more efficient at removing impurities from water than traditional filters. Finally, while the taste of RO water may be slightly different than that of unfiltered water, many people prefer it because it is free of impurities that can alter its taste or odor.
If you are interested in installing a reverse osmosis system in your home or business, consider eWater as your provider. eWater’s RO systems are designed to be water-efficient, cost-effective, and easy to maintain, providing you with clean, purified water for years to come.
