Reverse Osmosis Systems – Filtering Out the Gimmicks
When it comes to drinking water, Australians are particularly concerned about the quality of the water which we drink. In general, our water is safe to drink straight out of the tap but we do need to be careful since there are other contaminations that may occur whether it’s in the pipes along the way or even in the plumbing in our own homes. When looking at water filter options there is a range of different options and many have heard the term ‘Reverse Osmosis’ thrown around but don’t necessarily know what it’s all about.
What is Reverse Osmosis?
Reverse Osmosis is the process of water purification removing the presence of chemicals and particles from drinking water.
How Is This Different From a Traditional Water Filter?
Avoiding technical talk, the easiest way to describe the difference is this. Water filters as it sounds filters away the chemicals and particles as the water passes through the filter. Reverse Osmosis, on the other hand, removes the presence of the particles and chemicals then puts the good minerals back in.
Effectively this means much cleaner drinking water for the family.
Filtering Out The Gimmicks
If you’re doing your research about Reverse Osmosis water filter systems, you will already know that there is a huge range of options available all claiming to be the best for you but which one is really the best or what does it all mean? Why would they sell a 4 Stage Reverse Osmosis when they have a 10 Stage and why would I pick one or the other?
The reality is like most consumer goods it comes down to packaging and how a product is presented for sale. There are differences between the different stage reverse osmosis systems but understanding their capabilities vs your needs is the most important part of selecting the system that works best for you.
Based on the available reverse osmosis systems at Filtered Water Solutions, their range makes it easy to understand which one is best for you.
3 Stage Reverse Osmosis
If you are looking to filter drinking water for consumption, this might not be the answer for you. A 3 stage system is generally used in labs and aquariums. You can drink this water but because of the PH levels in a Stage 3 system, the water may taste a little acidic.
4 Stage Reverse Osmosis
This is a good solid system for any home or office. Where the 3 stage system may have an acidic taste, the four-stage RO system balances out the PH levels with the 4th stage filter which re-mineralizes the water.
5 Stage Reverse Osmosis
With all the benefits of the 4 Stage system, the 5 Stage RO system has a second carbon block which further reduces chemicals and smells for a better drinking water experience.
6 Stage, 7 Stage, 8 Stages and more?
After the first five stages, it becomes a bit of a grey area to what becomes a sales pitch or a gimmick. Each subsequent stage can add further filtration for specific purposes but be aware that additional components may not be necessary and also means additional maintenance or replacement costs when components naturally wear out.
Ongoing Maintenance
Another important mention is the ongoing maintenance of these reverse osmosis water filters. It is important to keep up with regular maintenance of the water filters to make sure you continue to have a good-tasting and clean drinking water. In general, maintenance is required every 12 months but there are some areas where the filters have to work a lot harder because of the quality of water through the mains.
In summary, if you are looking for good clean drinking water then a solid 4 Stage Reverse Osmosis system will treat you well. Along with regular maintenance, they will provide healthy drinking water for any home and office saving you in the long run especially compared to buying bottled water. If you have more of a budget to play with then you can consider the more expensive systems but also be aware of what you are paying for. If you end up buying a system with all the extra gimmicks, bells, and whistles, there could be unnecessary maintenance costs in the future.
