Water purification is an essential consideration in any kitchen remodel, ensuring that the water you use for drinking and cooking is clean and safe. In this article, we will explore the intricacies of water purification systems, particularly focusing on reverse osmosis (RO) systems and traditional filter systems. We'll answer key questions to help you make an informed decision for your kitchen remodel in Exeter, NH, or anywhere else.

Why is it Important to Purify Drinking Water?

Purifying drinking water is crucial for several reasons:

Health and Safety

Contaminated water can carry harmful bacteria, viruses, and chemicals that can cause illnesses. Purification systems help to ensure that your water is safe to drink and use in cooking.

Taste and Odor

Impurities in water can affect its taste and smell. Purified water often tastes better and is more enjoyable to drink.

Appliance Longevity

Clean water can extend the life of your kitchen appliances by preventing the buildup of minerals and other deposits.

Environmental Impact

Using a home purification system can reduce reliance on bottled water, decreasing plastic waste and environmental impact.

What are the Different Methods of Purifying Drinking Water?

There are several methods for purifying drinking water, each with its own advantages and suitable applications:

Boiling

One of the simplest methods, boiling kills bacteria, viruses, and parasites. However, it does not remove chemical contaminants.

Distillation

This process involves boiling water and then condensing the steam back into a liquid, removing impurities and contaminants. It is very effective but slow and energy-intensive.

Chlorination

Adding chlorine to water kills bacteria and viruses. It is commonly used in municipal water treatment but can leave an unpleasant taste and does not remove all contaminants.

Ultraviolet (UV) Light

UV light can kill bacteria and viruses in water but does not remove chemical contaminants or particulates.

Activated Carbon Filters

These filters use activated carbon to absorb impurities, improving taste and odor. They are effective at removing chlorine, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and some heavy metals.

Reverse Osmosis

Reverse osmosis (RO) systems use a semi-permeable membrane to remove a wide range of contaminants.

Ion Exchange

This method replaces undesirable ions in the water with less harmful ones, commonly used to soften water by removing calcium and magnesium.

What is a Point-of-Use Filter System?

A point-of-use (POU) filter system is installed at a specific location where water is used, such as a kitchen sink. These systems treat water at the point where it is consumed, ensuring that the water used for drinking and cooking is purified. POU systems can be either reverse osmosis systems or traditional filter systems, depending on the level of purification required.

POU systems are a very popular component of many kitchen remodels due to the conveniences they afford homeowners. While there are other types of filtration systems, such as whole-home filtration systems, we will be primarily discussing POU systems in this article.

What is Reverse Osmosis?

Reverse osmosis (RO) is a water purification process that uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove ions, molecules, and larger particles from drinking water. In essence, water is forced through the membrane, leaving contaminants behind and providing you with purified water. This method is highly effective at reducing a wide range of contaminants, including dissolved salts, bacteria, and other impurities.

What is a Filter System?

A filter system uses various materials to physically block or chemically absorb contaminants from water. These systems typically include:

Sediment Filters

Sediment filters remove larger particles like sand, silt, and rust from the water.

Activated Carbon Filters:

Activated Carbon Filters remove chlorine, bad taste, odors, and some organic chemicals.

Ion Exchange Filters:

Ion Exchange Filters are used to soften water by removing minerals like calcium and magnesium.

Ultrafiltration:

Ultrafiltration uses a membrane to remove particles larger than a specific size, effective for bacteria and some viruses but not small dissolved substances.

How is a Reverse Osmosis System Different from a Filter System?

Both reverse osmosis systems and traditional filter systems aim to provide cleaner water, but they operate differently and have distinct advantages and disadvantages.

Operation

Reverse Osmosis Systems:

These systems use a semi-permeable membrane to separate contaminants from the water. The process involves water passing through the membrane, leaving contaminants behind. The purified water is then collected for use, while the contaminants are flushed away into the drain.

Filter Systems:

Traditional filters use physical barriers, chemical processes, or biological processes to remove contaminants. They capture particles within the filter medium, which needs to be replaced periodically.

Water Usage

Reverse Osmosis Systems:

RO systems continuously use water to flush contaminants away. This means that even when you are not actively using the purified water, the system still uses water to maintain the membrane's effectiveness.

Filter Systems:

These systems only use water when you are actively filtering it. There is no continuous flow to the drain, making them more water-efficient in terms of everyday use.

Maintenance

Reverse Osmosis Systems:

Require less frequent maintenance in terms of changing filters but may need occasional membrane cleaning or replacement.

Filter Systems:

Require regular filter changes and cleaning of the filter housing to maintain effectiveness.

Purification Level

Reverse Osmosis Systems:

Provide a higher level of purification, capable of removing smaller particles and a broader range of contaminants, including chemicals, viruses, and bacteria.

Filter Systems:

Effective at removing larger particles and some contaminants but may not filter out as many impurities as an RO system.

Is a Reverse Osmosis System Better Than a Filter System?

Whether a reverse osmosis system is better than a filter system depends on your specific needs and circumstances. Here are some considerations:

Level of Contamination:

If your water supply has high levels of dissolved salts, heavy metals, or chemicals, an RO system may be more effective.

Water Usage:

If water conservation is a priority, a traditional filter system might be preferable due to its lower continuous water usage.

Maintenance Preferences:

If you prefer less frequent maintenance, an RO system may be more suitable.

Budget:

RO systems tend to be more expensive initially and may incur higher water costs over time due to continuous usage.

Additional Common Questions

What is a Micron?

A micron, short for micrometer, is a unit of measurement equal to one-millionth of a meter. In water purification, microns measure the size of particles that a filter or purification system can remove. The smaller the micron rating, the finer the particles the system can filter out. For instance, a system that filters down to 0.1 microns can remove larger particles like sediment and some bacteria, while a system that filters down to 0.01 microns can remove much smaller particles, including viruses and chemicals.

What are the Costs Associated with Reverse Osmosis and Filter Systems?

Initial Costs:

Reverse osmosis systems typically have a higher upfront cost compared to traditional filter systems. This includes the cost of the system itself and installation fees.

Maintenance Costs:

While RO systems may require less frequent maintenance, the replacement membranes and water usage can add to the cost over time. Filter systems, on the other hand, require regular filter replacements, which can also accumulate costs.

Operational Costs:

RO systems may increase your water bill due to the continuous water flushing process, whereas filter systems generally do not affect your water bill as significantly.

How Long Does It Take to Install a Water Purification System?

Reverse Osmosis Systems:

These can take several hours to install, depending on the complexity of the system and the plumbing setup in your home.

Filter Systems:

Traditional filter systems are usually quicker to install, often taking just an hour or two.

Can a Reverse Osmosis System Remove Fluoride?

Reverse Osmosis Systems:

RO systems are highly effective at removing fluoride from drinking water, along with other contaminants.

Filter Systems:

Not all filter systems can remove fluoride. It is essential to check the specifications of the filter system to see if fluoride removal is included.

How Do I Know When to Replace the Filters or Membranes?

Reverse Osmosis Systems:

The RO membrane typically needs to be replaced every 2-3 years, while pre-filters and post-filters should be replaced every 6-12 months. Most RO systems have indicator lights or alarms to notify you when a replacement is needed.

Filter Systems:

Filters generally need to be replaced every 3-6 months, depending on the water quality and usage. Regular inspections can help determine when a replacement is due.

Can These Systems Improve the Taste and Odor of My Water?

Reverse Osmosis Systems:

These systems can significantly improve the taste and odor of your water by removing chlorine, sediment, and other impurities.

Filter Systems:

While filter systems can also improve taste and odor, they may not be as effective as RO systems in removing all contaminants that contribute to bad taste and odor.

Are There Any Environmental Benefits to Using Water Purification Systems?

Reduced Plastic Waste:

Both RO and filter systems can reduce the need for bottled water, thereby decreasing plastic waste.

Water Usage:

Traditional filter systems are more water-efficient than RO systems, which continuously use water to flush contaminants.

What Types of Contaminants Can Each System Remove?

Reverse Osmosis Systems:

Effective at removing a wide range of contaminants, including dissolved salts, lead, mercury, chromium, fluoride, chlorine, and bacteria.

Filter Systems:

Effective at removing larger particles like sediment, sand, and some bacteria, but may not remove smaller contaminants like certain chemicals and viruses.

Video Interview with Stephen Rybkin

To provide more insight into water purification systems, we conducted a video interview with Stephen Rybkin from Freedom Plumbing & Heating.

Stephen was installing a point-of use reverse osmosis system for our client in Exeter, NH. We took the opportunity to have Stephen explain the differences between reverse osmosis and traditional filter systems, their respective advantages and disadvantages, and why water purification is essential. He also addresses common questions about the water usage of RO systems and the effectiveness of different filtration methods.

Watch the video below to learn more from an expert in the field and gain a deeper understanding of how to choose the best water purification system for your kitchen remodel.

In summary, choosing the right water purification system for your kitchen remodel involves understanding the differences between reverse osmosis and traditional filter systems. By considering factors such as contamination levels, water usage, maintenance preferences, and budget, you can make an informed decision that ensures clean and safe drinking water for your home. Whether you opt for a point-of-use reverse osmosis system or a traditional filter system, prioritizing water purification is a crucial step in creating a healthier, more enjoyable kitchen environment.

If you need some help with your kitchen remodeling or water purification needs in Exeter, Portsmouth, Durham, or anywhere in the New Hampshire seacoast area, reach out here. We would be happy to help!