How to Install Reverse Osmosis
Reverse osmosis is a method of producing pure water for consumption. To achieve water purity, a solvent passes through a semipermeable membrane in a direction opposite to that for natural osmosis (the way the water moves). From there, the water passes through a water pressure greater than the osmotic pressure. The process will reduce dissolved solids, bacteria, and parasites in your water. Reverse osmosis filters were first introduced around 1910 in an effort to guard against the high number of deaths that were occurring from diseases in water. A reverse osmosis water purification system can be easily installed in the home, but does require some investment. The most important step is knowing what system is right for you.
Instructions
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Determine how much money you have to dedicate to a reverse osmosis system. A system that includes carbon filtering can also remove a wider range of inorganic contaminants than a simple reverse osmosis filtration. Basic reverse osmosis systems range from $300 to over $2,000.
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Consider a unit that contains a larger tank if you have more than six individuals using the system. It will cost about $50 more but will eliminate low water pressure and subsequently warm drinking water. Tanks are made from surgical steel.
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Determine your water pressure where you would place the unit. If it's low, purchase a system with a reverse osmosis pump. These units are designed with a non-electrical permeate pump which will fill up the tank far more quickly and deliver higher water pressure. These units are on average about 50 percent more expensive than a standard unit. According to the Water Quality Association, you should only purchase reverse osmosis systems that have been certified NSF and meet contaminant reduction standards.
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Contact your local water authority and determine if your home has a chlorinated water source. According to the Best Water Filter Guide, homes with such a source require a system with a carbon prefilter to remove the chlorine. Choose a system with a microprocessor in order to stay informed about when to change filters.
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Follow the directions included with your reverse osmosis kit to install the system under the sink. Connect the output tube from the reverse osmosis system to the waste pipe. Connect the source water tube to a cold water pipe using the provided valve in the kit. Install the faucet and connect it to the water source. Installation is considered "nonpermanent" and these connection steps should not require a plumber.
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Tips & Warnings
A reverse osmosis water system can save you money, since it eliminates limescale in appliances, which can cause premature breakdown.
References
- Photo Credit Clean water and water bubbles in blue image by Suto Norbert from Fotolia.com
