In reverse osmosis water filtration, water flows across a tightly woven membrane that separates the water from contaminants as small as a single atom. Typically, the reverse osmosis process is combined with multiple other stages of filtration including a sediment filter, carbon filtration, and additional speciality filtration stages.

The lifespan of your filter depends on a number of factors including how much water you use, your local water quality and the specific RO system you choose. Regularly replacing your filters will help ensure your system is running at full capacity. Some filters should be changed annually, but others can last up to two years. The reverse osmosis membrane should be checked annually and typically lasts three to five years.

Reverse osmosis filters contaminants from water by forcing them through a semipermeable membrane. Some of these contaminants include lead, mercury and chromium, among many others.

It’s common for city water to be treated with small concentrations of chlorine, which is not typically a hazard to your health. However, if you prefer to minimize the chlorine in your water, which can cause unpleasant tastes and odors, a reverse osmosis system could help.

You can get a virtually unlimited supply of cleaner, safer, better-tasting water right from the tap. With multiple stages of filtration, these systems are one of the most comprehensive ways to treat your water for a wide variety of potential problems.