Can a plumber install a reverse osmosis filtration system in my kitchen?

02/07/2024
Nick at Fergusons Plumbing

Today, we’re delving into the realm of reverse osmosis filtration systems and how they can be beneficial for your home.

Primarily intended to improve the quality of drinking water, installing a reverse osmosis filtration is one task a plumber like myself often undertake.

Let’s break down some key aspects about installing these systems:

Plumber Installation – Experienced plumbers like us at Ferguson’s Plumbing are well-equipped to install reverse osmosis systems.
Installation Process – The step-by-step process of installation ensures proper functionality of your system.
System Components – Understanding the components of your filtration system is necessary for its optimised operation.
Osmosis System Merits – A reverse osmosis system offers numerous advantages, but also has a few drawbacks to consider.
Maintenance Care – Regular maintenance and care are essential to maintain the efficiency of your system.

With a properly installed reverse osmosis filtration system, you can enjoy clean and safe drinking water in your own home.

All About Reverse Osmosis Filtration Systems

Ferguson’s Plumbing ensures professional installation of your reverse osmosis system, guaranteeing improved water quality.

We guide you through each step of the installation process, for an easy and hassle-free experience.

Your understanding of the system’s components aids in its future maintenance and effectiveness.

We also provide complete guidance on maintaining and caring for your filtration system to ensure its longevity.

Can Plumbers Install Reverse Osmosis Systems?

Without a doubt, plumbers have the qualifications to install reverse osmosis systems. These systems require expert handling which is within the skillset of professional plumbers.

Moreover, they understand the complexity of these systems better than anyone else. They know the intricacies of their installation, including water pressure requirements and wastewater lines.

Step	Description
Assessment	Examine the area for installation and determine the system type suitable for your needs.
Installation	Fit the system carefully, ensuring all connections are secure and functioning properly.
Testing	Run the system to check for leaks or any operational glitches.
Maintenance Advice	Provide guidance on preserving the lifespan of your system.
Table 1: Steps involved in installing a reverse osmosis system by professional plumbers.

An expert plumber ensures every step is carried out meticulously ensuring your system works flawlessly.

In essence, employing a plumber guarantees that your reverse osmosis system will be installed correctly. Additionally, you’ll receive expert advice on regular maintenance practices that will prolong its lifespan.

This process may involve an extra cost but it outweighs the possible risks of DIY installations such as leaks or incorrect setup. Remember, prevention is always better and cheaper than cure.

Apart from saving time, hiring a professional plumber to install your reverse osmosis system gives you peace of mind, knowing that the job is in competent hands.

Step-by-Step Process of Installing a Reverse Osmosis System

Your cold water tap connects to the Prefilter port. The prefilter removes unwanted chemicals, priming the water for the osmosis process.

A 1/4″ tube carries the treated water to an Auto Shutoff valve. This device governs the flow of water through the system.

Next, water enters the Membrane housing. Here, hard-to-remove contaminants are screened out, leaving you with purer, cleaner drinking water.

The ‘reject water’, carrying concentrated minerals and metals, is then discharged via a drain line at the left side of the unit.

This drain line includes two key components: a flow restrictor (limiting water wastage) and a check valve (preventing backflow).

The purified product water, or ‘permeate’, is what you’ll drink. It leaves via another tube, passing through a check valve on its way to storage.

Your drinking water passes again through the shutoff valve before reaching the Tank Line tee – a pivotal point in the process.

From here, it either goes into storage or towards the post filter. This decision depends on which path encounters least resistance.

The Storage Tank collects and pressurises your drinking water ready for when you need it. Inside is a flexible bladder ready to deliver fresh water on demand.

Finally, your product water travels through a Post Filter before reaching your sink. This adds a final polish and removes any lingering chemical traces.

The Delivery and Shut-Off System then regulates flow. When your storage tank fills up, it feeds back to an inlet valve which pauses further input until demand necessitates it.

Understanding Reverse Osmosis System Components

The reverse osmosis (RO) system is a multi-stage filtration process, each stage offering a unique function. Recognising these components is crucial to understanding how the system works.

The first fixture is a sediment filter, which removes particles such as dust, rust, and dirt from our H20. It’s an essential first step to purify your water.

The following fixture in this process utilises a carbon filter. This component targets harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs), chlorine, and unpleasant tastes or odours.

Sediment filter: Handles larger particles like dirt and rust
Carbon filter: Targets volatile organic compounds and contaminants
Semipermeable membrane: Removes up to 98% of dissolved solids
Post-filter: The final stage for added purification or remineralisation

Moving deeper into the unit, you’ll find the semipermeable membrane. This key component removes up to 98% of total dissolved solids, providing you with exceptionally clean water.

In a four-stage RO system, there’s a final component known as the post-filter or remineralisation filter. This adds necessary minerals back into your water after the intensive purification process.

This rundown should enlighten you on how each component plays a part in making sure your tap water is safe and healthy for you and your family. To ensure its optimal performance, regular maintenance is advised.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Reverse Osmosis Systems

Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems promise cleaner, safer water by eliminating numerous contaminants. This filtration system can effectively remove bacteria, viruses, lead, nitrates, and mercury.

Consequently, it also enhances the taste and smell of the water. As a result of these benefits, RO water serves as a healthier alternative for everyone, especially those with specific health concerns or compromised immune systems.

Versatility of RO Systems

The versatility of RO systems is another key benefit. You can install them either as point-of-use filters for a single tap or as whole-house systems to ensure purified water throughout your home.

Drawbacks to Consider

However, like all things, RO systems come with their drawbacks. One main concern is the production of wastewater, significantly impacting water bills and sewage systems over time.

As part of the filtration process, beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium are also removed from the water. This can result in a lack of nutritional value in the filtered water consumed.

An additional limitation is the slow filtration rate of RO systems compared to other methods. Consequently, this impacts the quantity of filtered water produced.

Last but not least, the financial factor should be considered. The initial investment for installing an RO system could be high. Moreover, regular maintenance and filter replacements add to the ongoing costs.

Maintenance and Care for your Reverse Osmosis System

Maintenance Care your Reverse Osmosis System

For a high-quality reverse osmosis drinking water system, proper care is required. If well-maintained, this sort of unit can serve you effectively for 10-15 years.

The regular change of filters, especially carbon and sediment filters, is an essential aspect to keep it up and running. These should ideally be changed every 6-12 months.

Clean and sanitize the system annually.
Follow the filter replacement schedule diligently.
Hire a local water treatment professional or do it yourself; both work fine.

If you opt for the DIY route, get familiar with your RO system’s owner manual. It will provide specific details on how to properly sanitize your system.

To maintain your system’s reliability, establish a routine check-up schedule. This would include regular filter changes, one of the most important aspects of upkeep.

An effective four-stage RO System also includes a final post-filter to remove any remaining taste and odor in the water. This final GAC filter ensures top-quality drinking water.

If you notice any decrease in water flow from your tap, it may indicate that your filters have reached their end life span. The sediment filter protects the RO membranes from getting clogged with dirt and silt. So remember to replace them diligently.

Osmosis Mastery

Absolutely, your local plumber can install a reverse osmosis filtration system in your kitchen. These professionals have the necessary training and experience to handle such installations efficiently and safely. So, for clean and healthy drinking water right from your kitchen tap, don’t hesitate to call your trusted plumber.