Picking an RO Unit can be a headache at the best of times. We try to answer a few of our frequently asked questions to help you choose.
What is Reverse Osmosis?
Reverse Osmosis is water filtration to remove sediments and chemicals. The RO process is really quite simple and works by separating particles and contaminants from water by forcing it through a semi-permeable membrane which acts as a physical barrier. Unwanted molecules are retained by the membrane while the pure water passes through for use or further treatment. The process takes unwanted particles retained by the membrane out through the waste pipe away to your drain. This filtration prevents the membrane clogging and prolongs performance life.
US Gallons Per Day Converted to UK Litres Per Day
36g = 136 litres, 50g = 190 litres, 75g = 285 litres, 100g = 380 litres,
150g = 570 litres, 200g = 760 litres, 300g = 1140 litres, 450g = 1710 litres
What are the advantages of Reverse Osmosis?
Superior filtration for unwanted sediment and chemicals
Filters out 98-99%% of all unwanted molecules
AutoFlush prevents membrane from clogging
Easy to maintain, requires only routine maintenance
Storage tanks can be used for water-on-demand
What are some of the disadvantages of Reverse Osmosis?
Process is relatively slow, a storage tank can be used
Requires a connection to your drain for wastewater
Production is affected by low water pressure and high temperature
What else should I look to invest in?
TDS Meter are a must for RO units to keep an eye on the performance of your system. The filters generally last between 6-12 months depending on your water quality and usage. TDS should be zero from your RO unit, or as close to it. Soon as this starts to rise, you should be looking to invest in Replacement Filters .
However if you have a Dual TDS Meter you can monitor your feed water incase there is nothing wrong with your system and something wrong with the feed water quality (better than rushing out and replacing filters for no reason)
Also a Pressure Gauge,Our Full size RO Units come with a presure gauge fitted and for them to run at optimum performance at a certain pressure (see guides) this also needs to be maintained. If you can not get near the pressure required, then a Booster Pump would be advisable and easily solve the problem.
Which speed should I get?
Systems from 36gpd up 450gpd, picking a speed will depend on your requirements. A nana tank for example would need very little water changes, so a 36gpd would be more than enough. However for a 10ft reef tank would require huge amounts of water changes/top ups on a regular basis.
Water production depends on your water pressure and temperature, if in doubt of what system to purchase we would advise to select the higher speed to ensure your system meets requirements.
For example; if you wish to produce 120 litres in a single day, rather than running your system over a couple of days whilst unattended or storing your pure water, choose the 50gpd as opposed to the 36 gpd unit.
How do I check my water pressure?
The simpliest check is to turn your cold water tap on full. If you get a few droplets of splashes when standing a couple of feet away your pressure is good enough.
However if not, call your local water supplier. They should be able to tell you what your water pressure is and whether it is likely to drop below 40 psi at any time.
PLEASE NOTE
Local water pressure can change, so please be mindful of local events such as roadworks that could temporarily change your pressure. All our units comes delivered with a free pressure gauge to help you check.