RO water system maintenance

Clover Dane

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RO Water System Maintenance

Reverse Osmosis System Maintenance

If you use the reverse osmosis system, then you also know its maintenance. In this article, you will learn about the maintenance of the system. The general RO water system maintenance applies to all reverse osmosis systems.

Need To Change RO Filters

Routine maintenance is necessary for the long-running of the RO system. The systems vary concerning their filters. Every filter has a different lifespan. The changing of the filter is compulsory after their lifespan.  

1. Sediment Filter

The sediment filter needs to change after every 12 months. So, you have to change it once a year. When you do not maintain this filter, then it may clog or foul. The damaged sediment filter does not enable the protection of the membrane of the RO system. In this way, the membrane may damage due to damage pre-filter.

2. Carbon Filter

After sediment or pre-filter, the next stage is the carbon filter. This filter eliminates chlorine and other contaminants. When the filter becomes damaged, it will also damage the RO membrane. The reason for damaging the membrane is that the carbon filter not removes the chlorine. That chlorine passes towards the RO membrane. Likewise, sediment filter the carbon filter should replace after every 12 months.

3. Reverse Osmosis Membrane

It is a stage of reverse osmosis. The system utilizes pressure for the movement of water towards the membrane. This membrane stops the flow of contaminants on one side. After that, it allows the movement of water from its other side. The RO membrane has long lifespan than the pre- & carbon filter. Remarkably, the lifespan of the membrane is more than two years.

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4. Polishing Filter

At the end of the system’s cycle, this carbon polishing filter polishes off the water. This filter eliminates the remaining odor from the taste. The polishing filter has to change one time a year.

The lifespan of the filters and the membrane depends on the water’s quality. And also it depends on the usage of water in the house.

RO Water System Maintenance

Forget To Change the Filters: Consequences 

There are negative consequences if you will not change the filters on time. It will lead to producing less water. In the end, the system will stop producing water. Whenever the water production decreases, it means that there is an end to the filter’s lifespan. Moreover, it is a great point to set the reminder for changing the filters and membrane.

Change reverse osmosis filters & membrane

Below are the instructions for the replacement of filters and membranes. You have to use proper sanitation procedures for the changing of them. Below are the steps for the sanitation procedure.

1. Utilize proper filter cartridges for the changing of the filters or membrane.

2. Keep the filter cartridges in their original packaging before starting the replacement. When you are ready for the installing, and then keep them out from the packaging.

3. Before starting the replacement of the filter, wash hands every time. It will prevent the entry of bacteria into the system.

4. The RO system kit makes the process of filter replacement more quickly. As a result, the system will always show its peak performance.  

Replacing the Standard Filters

The majority of the system has 2-3 vertical filters. The following are the steps of replacing the standard filters.

1. First of all, turn off the main supply of water line of the system. Secondly, close the ball valve on the tank. You can easily close the valve with 1/4 turning clockwise.

2. If the system has a line to the ice maker, then turn off that line. After that, open the faucet. Keep any shallow tray under the filter housing. It is for the catching of any water that may spill at the time of replacing filters.

3. Unscrew the vertical filter housing and eliminate the filter cartridge. Remove the O-rings carefully and keep them on the clean surface.

4. Clean the filter by using warm water and a small amount of liquid soap.

5. Place the accurate new filter in the housing of the system. Turn the connection of the water supply valve on and check your system.

Cleaning of RO System is necessary

The reverse osmosis system should clean one time a year. The most suitable time to clean the RO system is at the time of replacing filters. Most of the filter needs to replace only one time in a year. Before start cleaning, read the specific instructions on the manual of the system.

How Long Should My RO System Last (Lifespan)

The lifespan of the system depends on the maintenance of it. If the system gains proper maintenance, then it works for many years. Usually, the long-running of the system is in between 10 to 15 years. The important point to keep in mind is to clean the filter one time a year.

Water Softener never Damage RO System

A water softener will never damage the RO system. Both of these are a unique combination. The motive of the water softener is to produce soft water. On the opposite side, the RO system removes the sodium from the water. The RO system & the water softener work together for the great-tasting water.

Minerals like calcium are difficult to remove by RO membrane. A water softener works as a protective barrier for the reverse osmosis system. This barrier ensures to safe the system from fouling. In this way, it also enhances the lifespan of a RO membrane.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the RO water system maintenance increases the lifespan of it. If you properly maintain your system, then the system runs for more than ten years. All the filters of the system must change after their lifespan.

Otherwise, it will damage the system as well as decrease the production of water. If the water flow decreases from the RO faucet, then it is a sign that filters must change. With this maintenance guide, you will maintain your system more efficiently.