Introduction
Reverse Osmosis is arguably the most efficient method of water filtration available today. It’s useful for removing almost all types of water contaminants that may be found in home water or water from water bubblers. These range from sediment, bacteria & viruses, mineral salts and organic material to elements like chlorine and fluorine.
Most of the contaminants in the system are removed at the osmotic membrane chamber, with the application of pressure of around 35 psi. The system is reliable for providing high-quality water for water coolers and therefore is a crucial home water filtration system.
The 5 Stages
As the name suggests, the systems combine 5 filters in one unit. These filters can be grouped as pre-filters, RO Membrane and Post-filters. The pre-filter stage consists of 3 high-efficiency SED and carbon pre-filters, whose main aim, apart from taking care of large molecule water contaminants, is to protect the RO membrane.
Stage 1: 5 Micron Polypropylene Sediment filter
This is the initial stage in the system and is charged with taking care of all the solid substances that are above 5 microns in size, and removing them from the system. These are usually any sediment that is present in the water, like sand and metals. The filter can last up to 6 months.
Stage 2: Carbon Water Filter
This stage deals with most of the chemical contaminants found in water, like pesticides, herbicides, chlorine, etc. It also removes lead, aluminium, oils and various other contaminants. Chlorine quickly destroys the reverse osmosis membrane pores while oils bring about clogging in the membrane. Eliminating them in this stage effectively takes care of the RO membrane. The carbon water filter is also effective in removing any taste or odour present in your water.
Just like the sediment filter, these filters also last between 6-9 months. They are very useful in the system and therefore should not be used for longer than necessary, lest they lead to the extra cost of a damaged RO membrane.
Stage 4: Osmotic Membrane
This is the most crucial part of the system. It carries out fine filtration. When water reaches the chamber, it is forced through the semipermeable membrane, with the application of pressure. Only the tiny molecules of water can pass through this membrane, and therefore all other contaminants are left behind, together with some water.
This water that contains a significant percentage of contaminants is then piped out, and into the drain. The pure water that passes through the membrane is directed to a pressurised tank for storage. This is about 75-80% of the water fed into the system. The membrane has an approximate lifespan of 18 months.
Stage 5: Inline Activated Carbon Water Filter
This is the last step in the system. Its purpose is to provide further purification of the water, a process known as ‘polishing’. Water passes through the stage only when the faucet of the pressurised tank is opened. This filter then provides quality improvement services to the water, by removing any colour, taste or odour that might have been left behind.
Conclusion
This system is a sure way of providing high-quality drinking and cooking water for your family. It helps you get rid of bottle water, which proves uneconomical in the long run. Aquafil is committed to helping you take care of your health and as well as the environment, and you can, therefore, contact us if you need assistance in any of these.
Substitute your bottled water with a reverse osmosis water filtration system, and save not only your money but also the environment!