Reverse Osmosis Systems - Are They Really "All That?"

In the world of water purification systems, reverse osmosis systems tend to be at the top. As well they should. A reverse osmosis water system is arguably one of the best water purification processes available today, at a reasonable cost.

Reverse osmosis systems use a semi-permeable membrane that prevents particles with a molecular structure larger than water, such as bacteria and disease causing pathogens along with organic compounds such as salts and other minerals, from passing through.

WATER SOFTENER COMPARISON

This process is extremely effective in providing mineral free water and in desalinating water. It effectively removes contaminants such as salt, fluoride and lead, as well as minerals essential for healthy living, including manganese, iron and calcium.

That's great, right?! Not so much, unless you're processing photos.

There's a growing concern that continued use of mineral free water is actually bad for you.

You see, our body's need the naturally occurring minerals found in water. Manganese helps regulate the metabolism of carbohydrates, fat and proteins, while iron is needed for healthy blood cells. Both calcium and manganese are essential for healthy bones.

The indiscriminant removal of materials simply based on molecular size by reverse osmosis systems is actually less desirable.

Additionally, reverse osmosis systems must rely on an added filtration system to remove harmful synthetic chemicals such as pesticides, herbicides and chlorine that have molecular structures smaller than water, and pass through the tiny pores of the membrane.

Another downside of a reverse osmosis system is the amount of water used. For every gallon of purified water produced, two to three gallons have been used. Ouch! In order to prevent the membrane from getting clogged, many reverse osmosis systems use what is called "cross flow," to flush away materials that have been stopped by the membrane.

Plus, it's a slow process, producing about 12-15 gallons per day of treated water and sending another 30-45 gallons down the drain! Because of this, most reverse osmosis systems are designed to provide cooking and drinking water.

What about those contaminants that you expose your open pores to when taking a hot shower or washing your hands? Hmm...?

So, if reverse osmosis systems by themselves do not provide the healthiest water, and a filtering system must be used in conjunction with reverse osmosis to remove synthetic chemicals, why not use a filtering system to begin with?

A simple filtering system by itself will not provide better quality water than a reverse osmosis system. But a water purification system that uses a multimedia filtering system will out perform a reverse osmosis system and provide healthier, higher quality water.

Multimedia filtering systems provides the ability to selectively remove harmful chemicals while retaining the beneficial trace elements.

When considering water filtration systems, reverse osmosis systems may have the "Ooh, and ah" factor, but a more in depth look at their functionality is needed to make a true comparison and to afford you the ability to make a decision that is in the best interest of you and your family.

Reverse Osmosis Systems - Are They Really "All That?"

WATER SOFTENER COMPARISON