Best Reverse Osmosis Systems: Reviews & Guide 2020

I was talking about reverse osmosis systems quite a lot in my previous articles.

So, now it’s finally a time to have a closer look at what actually is the reverse osmosis.

I will provide all the necessary information you need to know so you can pick a best reverse osmosis system based on that information rather than a random guess.

So, let’s dig down to it.

What Is A Reverse Osmosis System?

Reverse osmosis (RO) is usually a system that contains several cartridges with filters and a membrane, the number might be various, but usually doesn’t exceed seven stages.

The system also includes the tank for filtered water that has a capacity between 2-4 gallons.

This tank contains clean filtered water.

Basically, it serves as the buffer, so instead of treating water when the tap is turned, water is filtered in advance.

Now:

The whole unit is easily installed under the sink.

The good thing is that you can easily fit the RO system under most kitchen sinks.

Although, the size of such a unit is not small. For this reason, there is a trade-off as you probably won’t be able to use the space in there anymore.

How Does The RO System Work?

The principle is simple.

Water enters the first one or two entry stages of the filter. These usually remove small particles like dust, sand, metals, and dissolved chlorine.

Now, this is the main part!

Water under the pressure enters the main RO membrane stage. The membrane pores are so small that only the molecules of water are able to pass it.

Now:

Water after the membrane passes another final few stages to remove the rest of the contaminants and improve the taste. After that clean water goes to the tank where is it stored until you switch the tap.

But what happens with the wastewater?

Unfortunately:

There is about 75-80% water flushed down to sewage.

Yes, you are right this is the biggest issue of the reverse osmosis. It is super effective to remove between 95-99% of all contaminants, but it comes with a cost.

I will talk about it later.

Best RO Systems In 2020

Now:

Let’s have a look at different manufacturers available on the market right now and see which are systems performing to the highest standard.

I have incorporated a comparison table below.

Product	Features	Our Rating	Checkout
	APEC Top Tier Supreme 90 GPD 90 GPD, 5 stages, WQA Gold Seal Certified, Made in USA	93%	Check Out on Amazon
	Brondell Circle RO System Circle RO, Sleek design, Wastewater efficient, 4 Stages, WQA Gold Seal Certified	95%	Check Out on Amazon
	Home Master TMAFC-ERP Artesian 5-years limited warranty, Non-electric pump, Long lasting filters, 7-stages	95%	Check Out on Amazon
	iSpring RCC1UP-AK 7-Stages, 100GPD, WQA Gold Seal, UV Lamp, Booster pump	88%	Check Out on Amazon
	Purify Guru Tankless, 400 GPD, 2-modes of filtration, Stainless steel design, Built-in monitors, 4 Stages	90%	Check Out on Amazon
	Express Water Alkaline UV RO Increases the pH, 7 Stages, 100GPD, US made, Pressure gauge	89%	Check Out on Amazon
	APEC Portable Countertop RO Portable RO, Faucet connection, No-installation, 4 Stages, Tankless	87%	Check Out on Amazon
	AquaTru Countertop Filter Countertop dispenser, No installation, BPA-Free, 4 Stages, NSF Certified, Sleek design, Reminder	81%	Check Out on Amazon

APEC Top Tier Supreme 90 GPD

APEC Water Systems RO-90 Ultimate Series Top Tier Supreme Certified High Output 90 GPD Ultra Safe...

• Enjoy unlimited ultra-fresh, clean, great tasting water right at home. Save money, time and hassle of buying costly, bottled water
• Designed, engineered and assembled in USA, RO-90 is a dependable RO System rated to last over a decade and will greatly improve your water quality
• Tested and approved by WQA to remove up to nearly all impurities including arsenic, chlorine, lead, fluoride, heavy metals and 1000+ impurities in your water
• Large super capacity filters deliver 2X impurity removing capacity for fewer filter change outs compared to smaller all-in-one filters that clog up quickly
• Comes with 100% lead-free designer faucet, plus JG high grade tubing to provide safe, impurity-free pure water. The original, top-notch JG Quick Connect fittings for easy...

$225.35

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Last update on 2024-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Here is the thing:

The APEC is a good US company that builds good filters. They have quite a broad variety of products, but I have selected this particular one for a reason.

Why?

It has an excellent treatment capacity of up to 90 gallons per day. I mean this is more than enough for cooking and drinking even for a huge family.

This capacity is available at the pressure of 60 psi. In case you have 50 psi you would be able to get 75 gallons a day, which is still a lot let’s be honest.

The important thing is that tank has a capacity of 4 gallons.

Apart from that…

Apec is WQA Gold Seal Certified.

What does it mean?

It means that this product was tested by WQA and performed up to the highest standard.

This being said, APEC removes over 1000 contaminants including arsenic, fluoride, heavy metals, bacteria and viruses.

So, obviously, the performance regarding removal rates is on top.

Let’s have a look at how long does the unit last.

Typically, different stages last a different amount of time. This number is usually about 6 months.

However:

Apec filters are reported to last up to 12 months.

What does it mean for you?

You don’t have to worry about the maintenance for a whole year.

I am sure that like the nice bonus you would appreciate the fact, that the unit is easy to install and you can even do it yourself.

Here is the video manual:

Another thing you would love is that all parts are 100% lead-free and are FDA certified.

There is also 1-year limited warranty on this product.

Conclusion

APEC is a great system that removes high number of contaminants. If you are looking for something easy to install and something that doesn’t require a lot of your attention and maintenance this is a good choice for you.

All this is WQA certified and offers 12 months of stress-free filtration.

Brondell Circle RO System

Sale

Brondell Circle Reverse Osmosis System, Under Sink, Black – 4 Stage RO Water Designer Chrome...

• WATER SAVING SMART TECHNOLOGY: This patented technology eliminates back pressure to make the Circle up to 10 times more efficient than traditional RO systems, saving...
• COMPACT DESIGN: The reservoir and water filters are contained in a sleek case taking up less space under your sink. The twist and seal filters in this non-electric design...
• DESIGNER FAUCET: This elegant, chrome kitchen faucet is the embodiment of quality and efficiency. The integrated LED filter change indicator conveniently reminds you when...
• FOUR-STAGE FILTRATION: The Circle reverse osmosis water filter system utilizes 4 separate advanced water filters, dramatically reducing industrial and harmful chemicals....
• WATER QUALITY ASSOCIATION CERTIFICATION: Our water filtration systems are tested & certified by the WQA, ensuring that you can trust in performance claims; The Circle...

$529.33 −$25.07 $504.26

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Last update on 2024-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Now:

We all know that, despite the high efficiency of reverse osmosis, this method is really wasteful.

I mean some systems are able to generate even up to 10+ gallons of wastewater for 1 gallon of clean water.

I am sure you agree with me that this ratio doesn’t look particularly good neither for the environment or a water bill.

Many different brands are trying to come up with different solutions to reduce that ratio of wastewater.

Personally, I like the Brondell approach, and that’s why their product is on this list.

Here is the thing:

The manufacturer has an exciting technology called circle reverse osmosis.

How does it work?

There is a tank that has a second flexible inner tank. Clean water is stored in the inner tank. Also, there is a smart valve.

As you turn the tap to fill the glass with drinking water, magic starts to happen.

The smart valve opens the outer reservoir and water starts to fill it. The pressure then squeezes the inner tank which sends the water to the tap end.

As soon as your glass is filled, the inner reservoir starts to fill again with clean water. This, on the other hand, pushes the water out of the outer tank.

Best part?

Water from the outer tank is used to flush the RO membrane, so it extends the membrane’s lifespan.

Bottom line:

The technology is able to reduce the wastewater down to an average of 2.1 gallons for 1 gallon of clean water.

Few more things:

I have to mention the fact that compared to other RO systems Brondell, has put theirs into one box with a sleek design.

I like the way it looks, it’s elegant.

Unit comes with 4 stages of filtration and doesn’t require the electricity as there is no pump.

On top of that, there is a LED indicator as of when to change filters.

Unit comes with the 1-year warranty to cover 100% of all parts and labor, apart from consumable filters.

Conclusion

If you live in the drought area like California, where each gallon of water counts, this unit will serve you really.

The ratio of 2.1:1 is considered to be highly efficient amongst the RO system. Add a neat design and the LED reminder, and it’s decided.

Home Master TMAFC-ERP Artesian

Sale

Home Master TMAFC-ERP Artesian Full Contact Reverse Osmosis System, 7-Stages, Patented 2-Pass...

• A better RO system | Home Master Artesian Full Contact’s innovative design solves most common problems associated with cannister and tankless RO systems.
• Mineral Water on Tap | Patented remineralization system adds calcium and magnesium twice during the purification process for reduced storage tank degradation and great...
• NSF Certified Components | meets or exceeds NSF standards for material safety and performance. NSF listed company. Made in USA.
• Reduced Water Waste & TDS Creep | Built in non-electric permeate pump reduces TDS creep and water waste up to 80%, increases water production up to 50%. No electricity...
• Faster Flow Rate | Included Fast Flo RO! Kit has larger fittings and tubing provide twice the flow of traditional RO systems.

$419.90 −$72.76 $347.14

Check Out on Amazon

Last update on 2024-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Here is the deal:

Home Master is one of the best manufacturers when it comes to water filtration. The company offers a variety of different RO options.

Although all of them are good, I have selected this particular one because I believe it brings the best value for the money.

Here is why?

The unit comes with a permeate pump that reduces wastewater by roughly 80%. This means that the ratio waste:pure water is about 1:1.

So, this is another excellent product for droughts areas.

The best part?

The pump works thanks to the hydraulic energy, and therefore no electricity is required.

Few things you’ll love:

This unit has a word “Artesian” in the name.

Why?

Because this system has two points where water is remineralized after the filtration.

The first point is when water comes into the tank. By the way, the tank has a capacity of 3.2 gallons.

The second point is after the tank when water goes to the tap.

Bottom line:

Thanks to added Calcium and Magnesium to water, you receive a mineral tasting water with healthy minerals.

What else would you want from the filter?

Beyond that:

Home Master is able to produce 75 gallons a day. This is enough for a family of 4-5 people.

The whole unit comes with an incredible 5-year warranty.

The RO membrane lasts 12 months or 2,000 gallons whichever comes first.

Conclusion

Similar to the Brondell, Home Master provides a great value for people living in drought areas. With it permeate pump it doesn’t require any electricity, and reduces about 80% of wastewater.

All this is backed with 5-years warranty and two remineralization stages to ensure that your water tastes good and actually is full of healthy minerals.

iSpring RCC1UP-AK

Sale

iSpring RCC1UP-AK 100GPD Under Sink 7-Stage Reverse Osmosis RO Drinking Filtration System and Water...

• QUALITY 7-STAGE FILTRATION: This Reverse Osmosis (RO) water filtration system removes up to 99% of over 1,000 harmful contaminants like PFAS (includes PFOA and PFOS),...
• BOOSTER PUMP: Reverse Osmosis produces filtered drinking water by pressurizing water molecules through RO membrane and leaving impurities out. Equipped with an electric...
• UV FILTER: The UV stage of this Reverse Osmosis system comes with a Smart Flow Sensor which turns the UV light on and off. An automatic 3-minute delay saves power and...
• FEATURES: Come with European-Style brushed nickel kitchen faucet with the rust-free finish. The 1st stage has see-through housing that enables convenient visual...
• DO-IT-YOURSELF INSTALLATION: Typically, in a couple of hours with industry-leading help just a phone call away. Fits under a standard kitchen sink, with all parts...

$468.99 −$61.00 $407.99

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Last update on 2024-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Here is a thing:

iSpring is a very popular brand between RO systems. Similarly to Home Master and others, they offer quite a broad number of different RO systems.

Since our list is about best RO systems, let’s talk about their top line and see whether it’s worth it.

Let’s get to it:

As most of the units in this article, iSpring also has been tested by WQA and received a Gold Seal certification, so there are no doubts about the quality of treatment.

This RO system comes with seven stages.

This is something I want to look at.

Obviously, it comes with standard stages and RO membrane. But I am more interested in the last two.

The first additional stage is Alkaline & Mineral.

This stage improves the pH of the water and adds healthy minerals into the water. Overall, you can expect better taste and “feel” of water if I can say it.

The second stage is the UV lamp.

I have the whole article dedicated to UV filtration, so I suggest you read it to get a better idea.

In short:

The UV light damages the DNA of bacteria and makes them able to reproduce. So, they become harmless and die.

The thing is that the RO membrane itself is so small that bacteria are not able to pass the membrane anyway.

See where I am going?

Since the membrane catches bacteria as well as other contaminants, I don’t think that there is a need to have a UV lamp with the RO system.

It merely loses its point as there is nothing to kill.

Okay, the minor amount of microorganisms might pass the membrane, but it just doesn’t justify the need for the UV lamp for me.

Now:

As we are clear about the stages let’s see what else you will get with a system.

Thanks to the pump that comes with the system, the filter is able to generate up to 100 gallons a day.

Also, this is useful for households that struggle with water pressure, because as we all know RO is only efficient with good pressure.

Note:

Even if there is a pump, the minimum required pressure is 30 psi.

Different stages have a different lifespan. However, if you want to change them as the whole set, it can be done every 12 months.

Although they can last 12 months and RO membrane even up to 3 years, I wouldn’t recommend you to wait longer. I would say change the cartridges even sooner like between 6-10 months.

The unit comes with 1-year limited warranty and 30-day money back guarantee.

Conclusion

With the pump the iSpring will ensure that you have good flow rate and will be able to provide a clean water for a big family.

As it is certified with WQA Gold Seal and provide good removal rates, I don’t find the UV lamp to be useful with this unit.

Personally, I think that there are better systems within a given price range.

Purify Guru

Purify Guru Stainless Steel Smart Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filter System, Tankless 400 GPD...

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Last update on 2024-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Here is the thing:

Probably you are surprised, that I am including a little-known system in this list of best RO systems, but hold on.

I am sure you will love it after you read what it has to offer.

First of all:

The whole system is tank-less.

Why is this good?

Because if you don’t regularly clean the tank, it will become a breeding ground for bacteria. You get the point.

The whole unit is able to provide a flow rate of 400 gallons a day. This is amazing, but this requires electricity as there is a pump to generate such flow.

Ensure that you have a plug under the counter.

Also, note that the unit has only 4 stages of filtration, but usually it is enough to filter most of the impurities.

Here is another thing:

I absolutely love this feature.

The tap has two switches to swap between filtration modes.

What does it mean?

The first mode activates the RO membrane, thus making the purest water for drinking.

The second mode can be called rough filtration. This way water is still filtered however is not as clear as it doesn’t engage the RO stage.

Water filtered this way is suitable for cooking for example.

Basically, based on the tap you switch your receive either pure water or “just” filtered water.

The whole intention of this is to extend the membrane’s lifespan.

However, I would still stick to the rule of changing filters every 6-10 months.

Now:

This is a great feature, but it has more to offer.

Stainless steel construction is sleek and durable.

On top of that you have built-in monitors to show the current status of each filter, so you know when to swap those.

Unfortunately:

The only thing I would love to see on this unit is additional remineralization stage. It would make this system perfect.

Also, there is a standard 30-day return policy, and it comes with a 1-year manufacturer warranty.

Have a look at the video below.

Conclusion

I love an interesting approach to RO system by this company. Neat steel design, two operating modes and the fact that it has such a high flow rate convinced that this product deserves to be on this list.

Unfortunately, there is no remineralization stage, but luckily this is something you can get separately. Although, it might be a bit difficult to install it.

Express Water Alkaline UV RO

No products found.

Here is the thing:

Express Water is another US company that manufacture water filters. In my other reviews I recommend their whole house filter.

This RO system also offers a high flow rate of 100 gallons a day, and I would say it is a straight competitor to iSpring mentioned earlier.

The main difference is that this unit has four stages of filtration. One stage includes alkalinization and remineralization cartridge.

The ultraviolet filter is also included in this system. I was talking about it earlier, and I will repeat myself.

I think that the UV light stage is just unnecessary in combination with RO, as the membrane removes bacteria anyway.

Now:

The last stage is the one that is interesting.

There is a stage that remineralizes the water so you would think that it is enough to improve the taste.

However, Express Water has added another stage that is called Post Carbon, also known as “polishing filter.”

What does this stage do?

This stage is made of coconut shell carbon, and it should improve the taste of water even further.

Apart from that:

I find the pressure gauge really useful as you can always see what is going on with the flow of water.

If it’s too high there might be something wrong with filter, it might be blocked.

Concerning the warranty, as well as many other products this unit comes with a 1-year warranty.

Conclusion

If you are concerned with a good taste of the water Express Water might be a great choice to consider.

It has the additional stage to improve the taste of water even further.

APEC Portable Countertop RO

APEC Water Systems RO-CTOP Portable Countertop Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System,...

• Hooks up to most STANDARD FAUCET in minutes. Just plug and drink! Lightweight, installation-free system. It’s NOT compatible with pull-out faucets, special size...
• Top rated brand, high performance reverse osmosis drinking water systems
• Highest grade 4-Stage ultra-pure system provides refreshing crisp taste superior to bottled water
• 90 GPD portable system built with high capacity filters for reliable, long lasting performance, works for water pressure 40-80psi
• Perfect for apartments, condos, motor homes, retirement homes, seniors, students & travelers

$249.99

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Last update on 2024-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Let’s be honest:

Not all of us are living in the house where you can make all the changes you want.

Lots of people live in small apartments or student halls. These people just cannot go and install an RO system under their sink.

You might also be the person who travels a lot.

Bottom line:

If you fall into any of these categories or any other category that might find useful having a portable RO system, here is the product for you.

I have introduced the APEC RO system at the very beginning of this article, but here is another one.

This is the portable reverse osmosis filter. Unlike countertop filter systems, this filter is a proper RO system so, it would be really unfair to compare it.

To be honest with you I didn’t even know that there is something like this.

How it works?

The filter comes in 2 versions. Hidden in a case or without the case.

Four stages are filtering the water.

You just put the filter on the countertop and connect a hose to the faucet.

There is also another hose for wastewater and you can either flush it down to sewage or collect it and use it for watering flowers.

This system has only one disadvantage I have noticed.

If your water pressure is low, then prepare yourself that it will take ages to get a glass or jug of water.

Also, note that the connection is only compatible with standard faucets. So if you have design faucet, you might struggle to connect the unit.

As well as other APEC products, this unit comes with a 1-year warranty.

As always I suggest you change filters every 6-10 months even if you haven’t used a filter that much.

Conclusion

If you are that person who is traveling a lot or simply don’t have a space under the sink to fit a proper system, yet you still don’t want any compromises on quality, this is the way to go.

APEC has come up with a great portable solution to achieve the best results on filtration.

AquaTru Countertop Filter

AquaTru Water Purification Unit - Certified NSF/ANSI Standards, Removes 83 Contaminants, No Plumbing...

• Is your water safe to drink? Studies continue to pour in regarding Toxins, Hormones, Microplastics, Cancer-linked contaminants, known Carcinogens and other toxins...
• Certified NSF/ANSI Standards - Tested & certified by IAPMO to meet NSF/ANSI standards 41, 53, 58, 401, and P473 for water filters, which include 83 contaminants and PFAS...
• No plumbing or installation required - takes just minutes to set up. AquaTru’s Trusted & warrantied RO countertop system costs considerably less than fully installed...
• Cost-effective and environmentally friendly: AquaTru has affordable filters that are made to last for 600-1200 gallons – that’s only a filter change every 6 mos. to 2...
• Quick change and twist filters come included with your first AquaTru water purifier and last from 6 months to 2 years. 1 set of filters replaces 4,500 plastic water...

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Last update on 2024-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Let’s face it:

We are all buying a reverse osmosis filter primarily to make clean water that we are going to drink.

The keyword is “drink.”

I mean, we are not going to do the washing-up with an RO purified water.

Okay, fair enough you can also use such water for cooking, but primarily you are going to drink it.

Now:

With the conventional systems, you need to go through all this installation hassle.

Despite the fact, that manufacturers are making it as easy as possible for you, it might still be a daunting process for some of us.

Here is the solution for us:

If you want to install the RO system for pure drinking water, here is a great option to consider.

AquaTru has made a product that is exactly suitable for you.

Basically, it is a countertop dispenser. You just fill it with water and leave it there.

Whenever you need to quench the thirst, you press the button, and you got RO purified water.

Let’s have a closer look…

The unit comes with 4-stages.

First two pre-filters remove all mechanical particles present in water.

Then we have an RO membrane and last activated carbon filter to improve the taste and remove the rest of the contaminants and VOC’s.

There are two separate reservoirs. You just fill the back tank with tap water and let the filter do the job.

Purified water is stored in the front tank, and you simply dispense it with the push of the button.

I mean it couldn’t be easier.

The good thing is:

That it takes only about 15 minutes to purify the gallon of water.

The capacity of the unfiltered tank is about a gallon, and the front reservoir holds about 3 quarts of clean water.

As always I suggest you replace filters as frequently as possible. This shouldn’t be longer than every 6-10 months.

The product comes with the 1-year limited warranty.

Conclusion

If you are looking for the RO system to make a drinking water and you don’t want to install anything, AquaTru is the great option to consider. It is easy to maintain and it will tell you when it needs to replace filters.

The counter side of such convenience is that you have a limited amount of water to use and you will have to refill it quite often.

The Winner Of The Best Reverse Osmosis System In 2020

Now:

This is it for my list of the best RO systems available for now.

But you might wonder which one is the best of the best?

Well…

Although it is a tough competition, my winner is:

Home Master

Sale

Home Master TMAFC-ERP Artesian Full Contact Reverse Osmosis System, 7-Stages, Patented 2-Pass...

• A better RO system | Home Master Artesian Full Contact’s innovative design solves most common problems associated with cannister and tankless RO systems.
• Mineral Water on Tap | Patented remineralization system adds calcium and magnesium twice during the purification process for reduced storage tank degradation and great...
• NSF Certified Components | meets or exceeds NSF standards for material safety and performance. NSF listed company. Made in USA.
• Reduced Water Waste & TDS Creep | Built in non-electric permeate pump reduces TDS creep and water waste up to 80%, increases water production up to 50%. No electricity...
• Faster Flow Rate | Included Fast Flo RO! Kit has larger fittings and tubing provide twice the flow of traditional RO systems.

$419.90 −$72.76 $347.14

Check Out on Amazon

Last update on 2024-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Why?

Because there is an excellent balance between all the parameters, I am searching in the RO system.

First:

It offers a great 5-years warranty, and this is something many companies don’t do.

Second:

I have sent a query to their customer support as I have heard that the service is on the top level.

Guess what?

They have responded in a matter of minutes. For me, it shows the professionalism of the company and how they value customers.

Third:

The overall performance of the system is impressive. It has a low ratio of waste to pure water at 1:1.

The permeate pump that doesn’t require electricity, yet still provides a high water pressure.

Last

Two additional remineralization points are just a final nicely added bonus to this great unit.

However, if you haven’t picked any of the selected above, bear with me as I have written a buyer’s guide.

You will get the idea of what to look for, so you will make well informed decision and don’t just fall for advertisement.

Buyer’s Guide Of Reverse Osmosis Systems

Before we actually go deeper into things you should know and be aware of, let me explain the difference between the osmosis and reverse osmosis.

Difference Between The Osmosis and Reverse Osmosis

Natural osmosis

It is a metabolic process that occurs in every living organism. It provides a balanced state of minerals and salts in the organism.

Let’s explain this on the example of the human body.

We all know that our blood serves as the transport that carries all the necessary microelements and oxide through the whole body as you can see on the picture.

The yellow part is the semipermeable membrane that allows certain particles to pass through back and forth.

Bottom line?

The cell receives, for example, the oxygen through the membrane and passes back the carbon dioxide that we breathe out.

Reverse Osmosis

The reverse osmosis is slightly different because it works one way.

There is also a membrane, but there is only a one side pressure.

Since we are talking about the water filters…

The contaminated water is pushed through the membrane that has such small pores, that only water molecules and smaller than that contaminants can pass through it.

Let me know in a comment section if it makes sense, if not I try to explain it better.

This technology was first used by the ancient Greeks for the desalination of seawater. Although, this was done at a very primitive level.

The industrial use of the reverse osmosis began in the 1970s when the technology allowed the mass production of synthetic membranes.

Subsequently, as the technology became cheaper, reverse osmosis filters were developed for the domestic use.

Construction Of RO Systems

Now:

Let’s have a look at the usual construction of the RO filter.

A typical household system has between 3 to 5 stages including the RO membrane. Also, there is a tank for purified water that holds clean water.

The system is installed under the (usually) kitchen sink.

It should fit most of the under counter cabinets, but please make sure to double check to avoid any hassle with returns.

Functional & Treatment Abilities

RO systems can provide clean water in the range between 1000-4000 gallons.

This depends on the size of the filter and also the number of impurities in a water supply.

Different units have a different capacity per day. This is usually in the range between 50 and 100 gallons a day.

However:

Note that this isn’t a capacity you will get. This number is the maximum amount of water that the unit is able to produce.

The overall amount of the filtered water is affected by the supply pressure and the number of pollutants.

For a standard family of four, all stages should last roughly for 6 months to one year.

Anyway…

I wouldn’t recommend you to use cartridges any longer. In an ideal world I would advise you to change all stages no longer than every 6 months.

But, we all know that it is not possible all the time. So, please do it every 6-10 months.

What Does Reverse Osmosis Not Remove?

The RO water is free from nearly all sort of contaminants. The unit removes a massive amount of contaminants and usually this number can be anywhere between 90-99%.

This includes chemicals, sediments, but also bacteria and viruses.

Again, this depends on the quality of the RO membrane and other stages as well.

Note that, viruses smaller than water molecules and membrane which is usually between 0.0001 – 0.0005 microns, are able to pass through the membrane.

Particles smaller than 1 µm could potentially pass the membrane. As the example these could be bacteria, viruses, some VOCs, but even things like lead dust.

Anyway, if you want to discover this more in depth, you can read here.

Although there are not many of viruses that can do that, there is still a small number of viruses that RO doesn’t remove.

You can either use the UV light filtration to kill these, or you can leave them if you think that it is not worth the investment.

The bottom line is:

UV filtration in combination of RO is going to provide an ultimate protection and give you completely safe water. However, in most developed countries, I don’t think there is a need to invest in UV filter in combination with reverse osmosis unless they are in the one product package.

I mean, in developed countries where water is treated, chances are very small that reverse osmosis is going to miss some dangerous contaminants.

Advantages And Disadvantages

Now:

Let’s compare the RO system to other types of filtration and have a look at the benefits.

Obviously, the main advantage of the RO is the treatment performance. Some of the industrial RO systems are able of achieving up to 100% purification.

The water filtered with RO system has similar characteristics as glacial water.

So, the main reason why someone would buy the RO system is that they want to achieve the best treatment possible.

With this said:

Along with all the impurities, RO system also removes healthy minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium.

Some doctors believe that this has a negative impact on the cardiovascular system, as these minerals are essential to proper body functionality.

To be honest…

I agree with doctors that minerals are essential, but I don’t think the amount you usually receive by drinking water is going to cover your daily need.

I mean with recommended daily intake you only cover about 6% of suggested daily intake.

You still need to have a balanced diet to get these minerals elsewhere.

Anyway, if you still think that you should have those minerals in water, you can get an additional remineralization stage.

This stage adds healthy minerals back.

Another thing that you might see as the issue is the price.

Usually, RO units are considered more expensive compared to other types of filters.

Bear with me as now we will do some maths to see whether it is true or not.

Let’s Talk Money! What Are The Costs Of Running RO?

Here is the deal:

On average the price of good quality RO filter is between $200-300+.

Let’s say we really want to have a good system, so we go with a filter at a price $300.

We are going to use the filter in a family of 4 and replace the cartridge every 6 months, twice a year.

The average price of the replacement cartridge is roughly 20-25% of the cost of the filter. In our case, this would be about $75 per replacement so the total of $150 per year.

Total spend in the first year would be $375 (initial system includes first set of cartridges, so you only need one replacement pack) and $150 the second year.

Now:

Let’s calculate how much would you pay for bottled water per year.

I will stick to our family of 4.

The recommended daily intake is 2 liters of water per person this equals about half a gallon.

So, in total, we drink 2 gallons of water a day as the family times 365. This gives us 730 gallons a year.

Therefore, the total cost of water would be approximately 50 cents per gallon in the first year. In the second year, this number will be 20 cents a gallon.

Just as the example the cheapest water costs roughly $1+ a gallon.

See the numbers?

If you buy the cheapest bottled water from Walmart, you would still pay $730 a year.

With the RO system, you pay $375 in the first year and $150 after.

I mean if we consider the water from the tap including wastewater, this number still wouldn’t be much higher, considering the current price of tap water.

I am not even talking about the amount of plastic you save, because this is priceless and could be a whole separate article.

Despite the fact, that tap water is cheap I would still recommend you to get a filter with the low ratio of wastewater.

In fact, I have even created a calculator to help you to see the difference between filters and bottled water. You can check it out here.

Remember:

It’s not just about the cost, but it’s also about water conservation. It is still bad to drain water down to sewage in such amount.

5 “Watch outs” When Selecting A RO Unit

Okay…

This was quite hard money talk.

Let’s have a look at the things you should check before you select a filter or maybe you have selected one but not sure if it’s a good one.

1. Check the space under the counter

I know what you are thinking right now!

“This is probably the most obvious thing!”

Well, yes it is undeniable.

But you know what?

Sometimes the most obvious things are not so obvious, and often we forget about them.

So, make sure you measure the space where you want to place the filter and check the filter dimensions.

Also, make sure that the reservoir for clean water fits under the counter as well.

2. Wastewater Ratio

This relates back to our money topic.

I mean, yes tap water is cheap, but it doesn’t mean we should waste and flush it down to sewage, just for a cup of clean water.

Make sure to watch out the wastewater ratio of the unit you have selected.

Remember that it will not just save you some money, but also you are not going to generate wastewater.

A key thing to understand is that the paper ratio will not always be the same in real life as in the description.

Why?

Because the filter is tested in lab conditions.

In reality, everything will depend on your water pressure and the number of impurities present in water.

General rule is, the lower the pressure and higher the amount of contaminants, equals more wastewater.

3. Filter Price – Cheaper Isn’t Better

Now:

This is an interesting one.

Some manufacturers are selling cheap filters at first sight. You see the price and think that this is a no-brainer for you and go for the product.

But later you when it’s time to replace the filter, you go online to get one you have a head rush when you see the price of the cartridge.

So you think that you won’t get a branded cartridge and go with a different one that is cheaper.

And guess what?

Yes, the only cartridge you can use is the branded one.

You end up angry, buying the overpriced cartridge every time you need to replace it.

So be aware of this and check the cost of replacement cartridges before you actually get the filter.

4. Water Pressure

Make sure to check your home water pressure before you get the unit.

There are two types of RO units.

The first type relies purely on the water pressure in the pipeline system. So, if its low then you will struggle to fill the glass of water. The recommended water pressure is between 40-70 psi.

The second type includes the water pump to create a pressure that comes into the filter.

I would advise residents of the upper floors, that might have issues with water pressure, to consider a system with the included pump.

5. Required Daily Capacity

I think this is quite straightforward as well.

The bigger the family you have, the higher the capacity you will need.

So, while 50 GPD unit can easily supply a household of 4 people, it will struggle to supply house of 8 people.

Make sure that you also know how you want to use water. If you want to use filtered water not just for drinking but also for example for cooking, then don’t hesitate and go with the higher capacity unit.

It doesn’t mean that you will use the maximum capacity, but it’s nice to have this certainty.

Conclusion

Now, I believe you have all the information you need to select the best reverse osmosis system and make an informed decision.

I have said everything I wanted about the RO filters in this guide. I believe that my best reverse osmosis system reviews have provided you with a good value of information.

It’s your turn to share your experiences with RO systems in the comment section below.

Make sure to share this guide with your friends who are looking for the RO water filters and help them to make an informed decision as well, because…

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