Why RO, Why Tankless RO
Q. Why is RO considered the most effective water filtration system?
​
A. Reverse Osmosis (RO) is often considered the ultimate water filtration method compared to Activated Carbon, Microfiltration (MF), and Ultrafiltration (UF) because it offers a more comprehensive and effective removal of a wide range of contaminants. Here are the key reasons why RO is regarded as superior in many aspects:​
​
Comprehensive Contaminant Removal:
-
RO: Removes dissolved salts, heavy metals (like lead and arsenic), nitrates, fluoride, chlorine, bacteria, viruses, and other dissolved inorganic and organic compounds.
-
Activated Carbon: Mainly removes chlorine, VOCs, bad taste, odor, and some organic compounds.
-
MF: Removes larger particles, bacteria, protozoa, algae, and some large viruses.
-
UF: Removes bacteria, viruses, suspended particles, and colloids, but not dissolved salts and small molecules.​
Purity Levels:
-
RO: Provides water with a purity level similar to distilled water, making it highly suitable for drinking and cooking.
-
Activated Carbon: Improves taste and odor but does not achieve the same purity level as RO.
-
MF and UF: Effective at removing pathogens and particulates but do not remove dissolved salts and small molecules
​
Q. Why should you choose a tankless RO system over a traditional RO system with pressure tank?
​
A. A traditional Reverse Osmosis (RO) system with a pressure tank works through several stages to filter and store purified water for later use. The pressurized storage tank has an internal bladder that separates the water from an air chamber. As the tank fills, the air pressure increases, allowing the system to maintain a consistent water supply. Its low water production rate, generally less than 100 GPD is compensated by the purified water stored in the tank. The purified water flows into the tank and stops when it is full. When you open the faucet, the water comes from the storage tank.
​
A tankless Reverse Osmosis (RO) system operates by purifying water on-demand without the need for a storage tank. Unlike traditional RO systems that store purified water in a tank, tankless systems filter water as it is needed. This means that whenever you turn on the faucet, the water is freshly filtered and delivered instantly. The tankless RO water system water production rate now is generally above 600 GPD, allowing for rapid water production.
​
Here are the main reasons that the tankless reverse osmosis (RO) systems have gained popularity for undersink water filtration:
​
1. Space Efficiency
-
Compact Design: Tankless RO systems eliminate the need for a bulky storage tank, making them ideal for undersink installations where space is often limited.
-
Sleeker Aesthetic: Without a tank, the system is less obtrusive and easier to fit into modern kitchen designs.
2. On-Demand Filtration
-
Continuous Fresh Water: Tankless systems filter water directly as it is used, ensuring a constant supply of fresh, filtered water. This eliminates the risk of stale or contaminated water that can occur in stored tank systems.
-
No Waiting for Tank Refill: Traditional RO systems rely on a storage tank, which can run out of water and require time to refill. Tankless systems provide an uninterrupted flow of water.
3. Improved Water Quality
-
Reduced Risk of Contamination: Stored water in traditional RO tanks can be susceptible to bacterial growth or leaching from the tank materials. Tankless systems avoid this by filtering water on demand.
-
No Pressure Tank Issues: Traditional systems use pressurized tanks, which can sometimes affect water taste or quality over time.
4. Higher Efficiency
-
Reduced Water Waste: Many tankless RO systems are designed with advanced technology to minimize water waste during the filtration process, making them more environmentally friendly.
-
Better Water Pressure: Tankless systems often deliver water at a more consistent pressure compared to traditional systems, which rely on tank pressure that can diminish as the tank empties.
5. Ease of Maintenance
-
Simpler Design: Without a storage tank, there are fewer components to maintain or replace, reducing long-term maintenance costs and effort.
-
Longer Filter Life: Some tankless systems are designed to optimize filter usage, potentially extending the life of the filters.
6. New Technology
-
Advanced Filtration: Tankless RO systems often incorporate newer technologies, such as improved membranes and pumps, to enhance performance and efficiency.
-
Smart Features: Tankless RO systems are well-suited for incorporating smart features, enhancing both functionality and convenience.
​
Q. What are key product specifications to consider to ensure you select the best tankless RO system for your needs?
​
A. Here are several key product specifications:
​
1. Gallons Per Day (GPD):
-
Production Capacity: Check the system's production capacity, typically measured in gallons per day (GPD). Ensure it meets your household's water consumption needs. A higher production capacity, thus high flow rate is beneficial for households with higher water usage.
2. Multi-stage Filtration Process:
-
Number of Stages: Look for systems with multiple key filtration stages, including sediment filters, activated carbon filters, and RO membranes, for comprehensive purification.
-
TDS Creep Reduction: Look for systems with TDS creep reduction design to ensure your RO system continues to provide high-quality purified water.
3. Pure to Drain Ratio:
-
Pure to Drain Ratio indicates how much wastewater is produced compared to the amount of purified water. Higher pure to drain ratios are more efficient.
4. Installation and Maintenance Requirements:
-
Compact Design: Select the system which occupies less undersink space while delivering high water filtration performance.
-
Filter Life: Consider the lifespan of the filters and the ease of replacing them. Systems with longer-lasting filters reduce maintenance frequency.
-
Maintenance Needs: Evaluate the overall maintenance requirements to ensure they align with your preferences.
​
​