What Is Reverse Osmosis & Why Is it a Good Option?

Reverse osmosis (commonly known as “RO”) serves as a great (and simple) solution for purifying water and removing foreign substances.

What is “RO”?

Reverse osmosis is a process that forces water through specialized membranes and exerts a certain amount of pressure on it to remove foreign contaminants, solid substances, large molecules and minerals. Reverse osmosis is a water purification system used around the world to help improve water for drinking, cooking and other important uses.

What are the health benefits?

RO water is likely to contain fewer contaminants. Although contaminants may not be in your water, lead can be relatively common out of most taps. Especially in areas where the water pipes and infrastructure are old and are in need of repair. Too much lead in your body can lead to increased blood pressure, reduced fertility and nerve damage. Lead toxicity can also cause brain damage and anemia in children. An RO system is also great for filtering out parasites such as cryptosporidium, which is a common contaminant in lakes and rivers. Cryptosporidium infection leads to stomach cramps, fever and diarrhea.

It tastes better!

Taste is obviously very subjective, but RO water is usually rated as better tasting than tap water by people who directly compare the two in blind taste tests, according to the National Rural Water Association. Lead, iron, nitrates, sulfur-based compounds and various chemical residues often make tap water unpalatable. The removal of these substances by reverse osmosis can give drinking water a cleaner or fresher taste.

What works best for you?

Every household and business is different. Your local Culligan Man can test your water for free, and customize a multi-stage reverse osmosis system that meets the needs of your individual water. Call today!