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The term “water filtration” covers a wide array of methods and water types, from distillation to carbon activated carbon filtration to purification. Most filtration systems are FDA-approved to reach the water quality levels enforced by both state and federal governments, but some people prefer water that is even safer than federal guidelines. In that case, reverse osmosis water may be considered, as it is known to be the most effective form of water filtration.
Reverse osmosis (RO) water is water that has undergone an intensive water filtration process to remove nearly every impurity. While most water filtration systems catch larger contaminants, an RO filter “can actually remove dissolved substances and minerals from within the water” (1). Due to its filtration process, RO water filters out nearly all contaminants, including PFAS, heavy metals, bacteria, and even alkaline minerals from the water supply.
As previously mentioned, the reverse osmosis process is extremely effective in removing all types of contaminants–good and bad–from a water supply. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, “RO is the process by which pressure forces water through a semi-permeable membrane, creating a stream of treated water… and a stream of reject water” (2). In other words, water is forced through a material with microscopic holes, ensuring that nothing but pure water passes through. This pure water is what we call “reverse osmosis water,” which is safe to drink.
RO systems tend to require a full installation connecting to a fixture in the house, like a kitchen sink. Its equipment is installed under the sink, where it stays permanently to improve the quality of that specific water outlet. Installing an under-the-counter RO system requires alterations to plumbing, which typically takes the help of a professional. Other systems are smaller and require less setup, like the Countertop Reverse Osmosis offered by Seychelle. These systems are portable and do not require a full, expensive installation process, since they allow for easy setup without the help of a professional.
While RO water is considered among the safest forms of drinking water, there are some potential downsides to keep in mind before installing one in your home. First, because even healthy minerals are removed from reverse osmosis water, some people think the water tastes “flat” in comparison to other purified water.
Additionally, RO systems are known for wasting water, since the typical RO system “can waste between 3 and 20 times as much water as they produce, ” resulting in a higher water bill and greater environmental strain (1). That being said, some RO systems waste more water than others, so researching the system can help alleviate this concern.
Traditionally, RO systems are known to be expensive, costing a few thousand dollars between supplies, installation, and labor. However, Countertop Reverse Osmosis challenges this trope, as these systems are easy to install and much less expensive than traditional systems.
Despite a few drawbacks to consider when choosing the best RO system for your situation, investing in an RO system is both a cost-effective and health-conscious choice to make for your family in the long-run. RO water is the most purified out of all water types, removing nearly all contaminants and dissolved solids from your water supply. RO can remove up to 99.99% of chemicals, heavy metals, microplastics, and bacteria, and other harmful tap water contaminants.
Additionally, some situations require mineral-less water, in which case RO water may be necessary. For example, chefs tend to prefer using RO water for certain recipes, as the minerals may bring an unwanted taste to cooking.
RO water can also be manipulated to add healthy minerals back into the water, if that is your preference. Running RO water through an alkalizing water pitcher allows you the best of both worlds–impurity-free water and healthy minerals.
Lastly, RO water provides families with peace of mind that nothing harmful is entering their bodies through the water supply.
Reverse osmosis water is water that has undergone an intensive filtration process in which water is pushed through a semi-permeable membrane, removing nearly all contaminants from the water. What is left is impurity-free water–arguably, the purest form of drinking water. When choosing your RO system, consider the environmental and cost implications before choosing the system that is right for your family. Then, sit back and enjoy the safest water you can drink!
Is reverse osmosis water good for you?
Yes. Reverse osmosis water contains all of the same benefits as normal drinking water, all the while removing nearly all harmful contaminants from the water supply.
Is there a downside to drinking reverse osmosis water?
Some people report a flat taste to RO water. Additionally, RO systems may waste significant amounts of water, and some systems are expensive to install.
Is distilled water the same as reverse osmosis water?
No. Distilled water is created through a boiling process, while RO water is filtered through a semi-permeable membrane during the filtration process.
References
Chauncey Crail and Samantha Allen,Forbes,https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/home/reverse-osmosis-water-pros-cons/
United States Environmental Protection Agency,https://www.epa.gov/watersense/point-use-reverse-osmosis-systems
