Learn · 4 min read
How reverse osmosis works, stage by stage
Reverse osmosis (RO) pushes water through a very fine membrane that holds back most of what is dissolved in it. It is used to reduce total dissolved solids, and it can reduce lead, nitrate, fluoride and arsenic, depending on their concentration and the membrane. [1]
The stages
- Pre-filtration. Removes particles and chlorine that could damage the membrane. [1]
- RO membrane. Reduces total dissolved solids. [1]
- Carbon post-filter. Reduces certain pesticides and organic solvents the membrane does not remove. [1]
- Remineralization. Adds minerals back to the water, per manufacturer specification.
How often to change the filters
In our Reverse Osmosis, the filters are changed once a year, per manufacturer specification.
In short
- Pre-filters protect the membrane.
- The membrane reduces dissolved solids.
- Remineralization adds minerals back to the water.
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