To understand UV filtration in RO systems and why it’s used, it’s important to first understand the process of RO filtration generally.
Reverse osmosis (RO) is a water purification technology that uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove impurities from water. It is a popular choice for home water filtration systems because it is effective at removing a wide range of contaminants, including dissolved solids, bacteria, and viruses.
The process of reverse osmosis begins with the introduction of water into the system. The water is typically taken from a tap or well and fed into the RO unit through a pre-filter. This pre-filter removes larger particles, such as sediment and sand, which could damage the RO membrane.
Next, the water passes through the RO membrane, which is made up of thin layers of semi-permeable material. The membrane is designed to allow water molecules to pass through, but to block the passage of larger contaminants. As the water passes through the membrane, impurities are left behind, while the purified water is collected on the other side.
The purified water is then collected in a storage tank, which is typically located within the RO unit. The storage tank holds the purified water until it is needed, at which point it is dispensed through a separate tap.
In addition to the RO membrane, most RO systems also include one or more additional filters. These filters are used to remove additional impurities that may not have been removed by the RO membrane. For example, a carbon filter may be used to remove chlorine and other chemicals, while a UV filter will be used to kill bacteria and viruses.
UV Filtration
Ultraviolet (UV) filtration is a popular method used to purify water in reverse osmosis systems. It involves using ultraviolet light to kill viruses and other harmful organisms that may be present in the water.
UV treatment works by damaging the genetic material (DNA or RNA) of microorganisms, disrupting their ability to replicate and causing them to die. The UV light used in water filtration systems is typically in the range of 254 nanometers (nm), which is effective at killing a wide range of microorganisms.
UV filtration is typically used as a final step in the reverse osmosis process, after the water has been mechanically filtered and treated with chemicals to remove impurities. The UV light is shone on the water as it passes through a transparent tube or chamber, exposing the organisms to the UV light and killing them.
UV filtration is an effective method of eliminating microorganisms from drinking water because it is highly efficient at killing a wide range of viruses, bacteria, and other organisms. It is also a chemical-free process, which makes it safe and environmentally friendly.
Benefits of RO Systems
There are several benefits to using a reverse osmosis water filter. First and foremost, RO UV systems are effective at removing a wide range of contaminants, including dissolved solids, bacteria, and viruses. This means that the water produced by an RO system is generally much purer than tap water, and is safer to drink.
RO systems are also relatively low maintenance. The RO membrane and other filters typically only need to be replaced every one to two years, depending on the quality of the water being treated and the size of the system.
Finally, RO systems are relatively compact and can be easily installed under a kitchen sink or in a basement. This makes them a convenient and space-saving choice for home water filtration.
Overall, reverse osmosis is a reliable and effective water filtration technology that is widely used in both residential and commercial settings. By using a semi-permeable membrane to remove impurities—as well as other filtration methods like UV filtration—RO UV water systems are able to produce high-quality, purified water that is safe to drink.
