5 Reverse Osmosis Water Myths

What is Reverse Osmosis (RO) Water?

Reverse Osmosis is a treatment system in which tap water is forced through a semi-permeable membrane leaving behind contaminants that can alter the taste, smell, and general quality of water. The filter allows purified water to pass through but, rejects solids such as sodium, arsenic, and lead.

Reverse osmosis systems will most definitely provide better tasting water. In addition, using an RO filter in your home can save money by eliminating costly issues associated with untreated well or municipal water such as iron stains and scale buildup – both of which can reduce the longevity of sinks, toilets, and appliances.

Reverse osmosis water treatment does not have to be intimidating. In fact, it can be simple and low maintenance. I think the turmoil starts with the fancy name but, that’s where it ends. You do not have to be a scientist or an engineer to understand reverse osmosis purifiers nor do you have to pay one to do it for you. Here are a few tips that will put you at ease:

1) You do not need a whole house unit

Filters the size of a hot water tank with pipes and tubes traversing the walls – this is the image that comes to mind with home water treatments. The price tag is just as hefty as the term “whole house” is often associated with the technology.

The truth is, the size and cost can be minimal. We recommend a 5 stage under the sink setup. The Watts 525 Pro Unit fits neatly in the cupboard under your kitchen/ laundry room/ whatever room you want sink – and can be purchased or rented for a mere $30.00 per month.

Please don’t think you are being cheap with this option, consumer reports galore sing the praises of this simple solution; you are a being savvy instead. The 5 stage system is also suitable for most well water supplies but, a professional should confirm your source.

2) Filter packs are expensive and I have to remember to change them.

Replacement filter packs are expensive, and it is difficult to remember to change them. That is if you are the one that has to do it. Again, we go back to the rental option which comes with free filter packs for life that are replaced by a professional on a regular schedule. You don’t have to do a thing.

3) I will just use my refrigerator filter.

Refrigerator filters have done an excellent job of providing easily accessible, high-quality water to millions of families. But, there are a few drawbacks.

A refrigerator treats water through a 1 stage, very small carbon filter. The little guys are capable of removing a fair amount of contaminants and some smells but, chlorine and some pharmaceuticals are not included. The 5 stage under the sink powerhouse does that and more.

Also, it has been reported that the effectiveness of refrigerator filters erodes over time, offering you diminishing returns on your investment.

4) I have a water softener – isn’t that enough?

Here is the thing, if you have a water softener you are actually in more need of an RO system. Water softeners are designed to reduce the hardness of your water, which is far different from purification. Sodium ions are used for softening; common sense tells us that we are then ingesting a higher level of sodium through our faucets. Filtration/ RO is needed to bring it back down to acceptable levels.

Also, a water softener does nothing to improve the taste of your H2O. Some have even said it makes it taste worse- I believe that is a personal preference but, it is not without merit. Reverse osmosis and water softeners are a perfect marriage of everything needed for a high-quality water source, i.e. soft AND purified water.

5) I will not know what to do if something goes wrong.

Troubleshooting a reverse osmosis water cooler may be daunting, however, issues rarely occur. Even better, if they do, the rental of the Watts Pro 525 comes with free service calls for life! The worry of a malfunction is eliminated and you can go on enjoying your refreshing H2O.

Additional benefits of filtered and RO water:

• Perfectly clear ice cubes
• Great for cooking
• Coffee and tea taste better

Browse our full selection of water filtration systems today and contact Distillata for more information.

More information:

• What is Reverse Osmosis Water?
• Water Filtration FAQs
• The TDS Myth