Water is crucial for your survival as it makes up to 60% of your body. The water you take daily plays a major role in ensuring your body functions at an optimum level. For these reasons, experts have advised that two liters of water are what your body needs daily. However, in these campaigns, the quality of the two liters has been highly overlooked.
It won’t make sense to hydrate as recommended only to come down with a disease caused by water impurity. That’s where water filtration comes in. Among the many options in the market, the reverse osmosis system has stood the test of time as the most efficient water filter system.
With the market flooded with different types, quality and specifications of reverse osmosis systems, it can be challenging to settle for the right one. So, what exactly should you be looking for in a reverse osmosis system when you are ready to make a purchase? Let’s find out.
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Countertop versus Under Counter Reverse Osmosis System
Countertops reverse osmosis systems as their name suggests are systems that are placed on the countertop or any other flat surface. It is ideal if you cannot make permanent changes to your home or you are temporarily living in a particular residence. In the case of relocation, you can move with it.
Undercounter reverse osmosis system is also known as under the sink reverse osmosis system because it is installed under the sink.
It is the most used system because of its ability to filter large amounts of water. This system is easy to use, though it requires a professional to help with the installation.
Depending on your current residence, you can settle for one that suits you best.
Multistage Filtration
The reference numbers on the reverse system osmosis show the number of filters that water passes through for purification. A system with four stages shows that there are four levels of filtration. The basic stages for water filtration include sediment filter, carbon filter, reverse osmosis membrane, and carbon filter.
Depending on the water you are using, you may require additional filtration. The more the filter stages, the more expensive the reverse osmosis system will be.
Mineral Addition Factor
Reverse osmosis system purifies water from contamination such as heavy metals, fluoride, sodium, cyanide, viruses, bacteria, chloride, and other harmful contaminants. These contaminants, when consumed over time, are harmful to your body and cause health complications.
However, some of these impurities are harmless and vital to the body. It is important therefore to settle for a reverse osmosis system with an alkaline filter. This quality allows the system to reintroduce traces of Magnesium, Calcium or Zinc to your water. These minerals will not only add tests to your water but also nourish your bones and other health benefits.
The Cost of Maintenance and Replacement
Ideally, all water filter systems need filter replacement because of the wear and tear prone to occur over time. Reverse osmosis system multistage filter requires multiple replacements over time either at the same interval or at different intervals.
Replacement filters for multistage osmosis systems can be bought in a pack. Depending on the replacement interval, the pack will contain the required replacement filter for the different replacement intervals.
Durability
A reverse osmosis system is a worthy investment. It is best you bank your money in a system that will serve you diligently without fail. Market research will help you analyze the different options in the market.
Invest in a reputable brand that has stood the test of time in the industry. Check for clients’ review for tangible feedback.
It will also be worthwhile to purchase a brand that offers a warranty for their products. In the case of system failure, you will be sure of replacement or repair at no additional cost.
Cost
Most reverse osmosis systems cost between $250 to $500. The price varies because of several factors: the number of filter stages a system has, the quantity of water the system filters per session, the presence of remineralized filter, autoflush and the brand of the system.
Depending on your budget and the specifications you need, the whole home reverse osmosis system has several options you can choose from.
Amount of Water Filtered
Your daily water consumption will determine the reverse osmosis system you will settle for. Most of the systems filter 50 – 100 gallons of water daily.
If you have a bigger family, then a bigger gallon system will be worth your investment. For a relatively smaller family, the 50-gallon system will be perfect.
Reverse osmosis system is the best the market has to offer in water filtration. Take your time to understand the systems type, specifications, cost and how they work before you buy one. You will make an informed choice if you have knowledge of what you are getting into.