Reverse osmosis unit for removal of sodium salts. Installation of reverse osmosis for fine purification of tap water. What volume of water per hour can be purified by a reverse osmosis membrane?
Tap water is almost everywhere for drinking and it does not require preparation. Boiling and defending - the methods are simple, but not too effective. Household filters handle this task much better, but the highest degree of purification gives the installation of reverse osmosis. The method is expensive, but fully justifies the investment.
Filtration of filters and membranes
With the knowledge gained about the osmotic aquarium, you can make an optimal purchase decision. Osmotic aquarium can also be used to grow fish, which previously could not survive in the aquarium. The advantage of online shopping is obvious.
Particularly active osmosis aquariums are delivered directly to the home, and then can be immediately put into operation and put into operation. Then the fish can quickly move into its new home. The reverse osmosis system provides particularly clean water and has long been a permanent fixture in many areas, such as medicine, aquaristics and water purification on ships. But what are the features of osmosis systems and are they suitable for home use?
Reverse osmosis is a process in which the flow of water is divided into two unequal parts with different densities. One part is clean water, and the second is water with a lot of pollution.
For this separation, a special membrane with very small holes is used. Their size is 0.0001 microns.
Osmosis or reverse osmosis - where is the difference?
Osmosis is a natural process. A substance with a low concentration of solute diffuses through a semipermeable membrane into a substance with a high concentration of solutes. This sounds more complicated than it is, and it can be observed in everyday life, for example, in food. Thin-skinned fruits that are wet from rain or too long in water break through osmosis. Water from the outside has a low concentration of particles than in fruits. Rain water penetrates the fetus through the shell and, finally, is torn or torn in an increased volume.
Reverse osmosis is used in the field of fine purification at the molecular level, which makes it possible to use water without preparation by boiling. The membrane separating the two media is capable not only of retaining fine dispersions, but also of preventing viruses and bacteria
Through the pores of the membrane can only penetrate particles whose size corresponds to the size of the water molecule or less. Large particles do not penetrate through the membrane barrier, but they are capable of clogging these small pores, therefore, before it is subjected to reverse osmosis, it must be prepared.
If, on the other hand, the same fruit is placed in sugar, syrup or salt, the fruit "collapses." In this case, the water contained in the fruit diffuses through the shell from the outside, because there is a higher concentration of particles outside than in the fruit.
In the case of reverse osmosis, the natural process of osmosis changes to the opposite, applying pressure to the liquid. In this case, the water diffuses through the membrane, leaving the particles dissolved in it, since they do not pass through the membrane. It is filtered, but does not correspond to the natural osmotic direction.
For mechanical removal of impurities, two filters with holes of 5 and 1 microns, respectively, are used. Between these two filters install one more - with a carbon filler. It delays the molecules of various chemicals dissolved in water: iron, chlorine compounds, heavy metals, and the like.
Molecules of some substances are smaller in size than water molecules. If there is no pre-cleaning, they can penetrate the membrane and contaminate the water. Products obtained as a result of reverse osmosis are called permeate and concentrate. The latter is that part of the water in which the contaminants are concentrated. This part is usually about 60-65% water, it is disposed of in the sewage system.
How does the reverse osmosis system work?
Therefore, there is a significant difference between osmosis and reverse osmosis. Nevertheless, the terms of osmosis and reverse osmosis systems are used identically; of the same filter type. Reverse osmosis systems have a multi-stage design in which different types of filters are connected to each other with varying degrees of fineness. This removes a very large range of solutes from water. These include microorganisms, pesticide residues, drugs and other chemical compounds, heavy metals, salts and suspended substances, and minerals.
This scheme details the order of connection and operation of the reverse osmosis system and identifies all its main elements (+)
Permeate is very pure water, the purification rate reaches 98%. Along with harmful pollution, the membrane and filters also cut off many useful substances that give the natural drinking water a unique flavor and properties. To eliminate this small drawback, permeate is passed through yet another filter.
Therefore, the return water is low in mineralization. This can be beneficial and desirable if the water is used, for example, for preparing baby food or in an aquarium. However, in the case of drinking water, many people see this as a drawback, so some reverse osmosis systems have a mineralizer for home use. This again adds to filtered water, which also benefits taste.
In addition, some models are equipped with a water tank for ultrapure water, as filtration takes some time. Even relatively large and powerful designs for household use with a daily capacity of a filter with a capacity of 260 liters create less than eleven liters per hour. Although drinking water is rarely taken at once, anyone who uses osmotic water for drinking, cooking and skin care should wait long without a tank.
To enrich the purified water with useful minerals, a mineralizer is used. The bioceramic filter with tourmaline allows to approximate the permeate structure to the natural state. There are also postfilters with the ability to expose water to ultraviolet radiation.
The simplest post-filter contains activated charcoal and coconut shell. With its help, the permeate is further purified and gives it a pleasant natural taste. If desired, such modules can be abandoned, but then the water obtained from the reverse osmosis system will not be so tasty and useful.
When cleaning plants during the filtration process, residual wastewater or "sewage" is formed. For one liter of clean water, up to four liters of this residual water can be formed. If this can be used for watering plants, washing clothes or cleaning, it will not be lost unused. Otherwise, the sewage meter can fly up.
How often should I change the filter cartridges in a reverse osmosis system?
The frequency and interval depend on various factors. Especially the nature and design of the filter and the quality of the water. Thus, membrane filters often last for several years, and units with activated carbon or a mineralizer must be changed after a few months.
What is included
Typically, reverse osmosis systems are supplied as a kit, which already has everything you need, even fasteners. The list of equipment may vary depending on the model and include the following elements:
- reverse osmosis membrane;
- a block with preliminary cleaning flasks, in which three filters are installed: two mechanical filters and one coal filter;
- postfilter;
- mineralizer;
- tap for drinking water;
- a key for replacing filters;
- key for the membrane body;
- a set of T-connectors;
- fastening panel for the crane;
- a set of flexible hoses, etc.
Before buying, you need to decide on such issues as the performance of the membrane and the availability of additional modules. For example, you can install both the post-filter, the mineralizer, and the bioceramic cartridge at the same time, or you can only limit the post-filter.
Reverse osmosis systems in comparison
In the case of a reverse osmosis system for household use, purchase decisions are often complex. Therefore, this manual is intended for a detailed description of osmosis systems. Aquamarine with a reverse water filter is an easy-to-install model that filters tap water in six stages and releases from a large number of pollutants. In addition, the filter system has a separate fitting.
The process of tapping into the water pipe
Strangely enough for the reverse osmosis system, the model takes some time to filter the water. In the case of an aquamarine water filter, water must pass through six filter elements. In this case: A good thing wants to have some time. In order not to wait a minute to fill the water glass, the reverse osmosis system was equipped with a storage tank.
Before starting the installation of a reverse osmosis system, you need to check the kit's complete set. Usually there are all the necessary elements for the work
The location of the reverse osmosis system and the drinking water faucet should be chosen immediately. Most often this element is placed on the kitchen sink, for which a small hole is drilled in its body. If desired, the location of the tap of drinking water can be changed.
Even without this tank, waiting for a reverse osmosis system, it would be useful, because the water is not only clean, but also fresh, invigorating and tasty. In addition, the home water filter is designed and practical in every detail. From the first fine filter through a direct discharge of residual water into the mineralizer, which adds valuable vital substances to the water as the sixth stage of the filter. However, a complex system also has its price.
Simple and practical installation of reserve tank and mixer on the sink, disinfection of water, removal of chemicals and microorganisms, as well as unpleasant smell and taste of long-term storage of filter cartridges by direct isolation of residual water in relatively small space, despite the fact that the medicine is connected to various domestic connections because the adapter is turned on. Constantly changing the sink or. . A 6-stage reverse osmosis system provides clean, tasty and healthy water directly from the faucet.
But then you should definitely provide access to the sewage system so that the water that has accidentally overflowed the edge of the container does not spill over the entire kitchen. In a spacious kitchen, you can put another small sink specifically for drinking water, but this need is extremely rare.
It is most convenient to install the elements of the system near the drinking faucet and from each other. The shorter the hoses through which water moves, the more efficient the system works. Traditionally, the system is installed in the same place as domestic filters, i.e. under the sink. The dimensions of the storage tank and the unit with filters make it possible to do this.
The process of water purification by reverse osmosis
And up to 260 liters a day. For this purpose, it also offers several other advantages as a filter for drinking water, not least thanks to the integrated mineralizer. With six filter stages, the water filter reliably removes suspended matter, discoloration, microorganisms and chemicals. There is no need for a power joint or space on the working surface, since the osmosis system can be integrated as a model under the table directly under the sink. Water is extracted through a water tap in stainless steel in a retro style.
When choosing a reverse osmosis system, one should pay attention to the dimensions of its elements. Most popular models have standard sizes. This allows you to choose the appropriate production options for different companies when replacing the membrane or filters. But if the dimensions of the model are unique, you may need to install only special branded cartridges, and this is not always beneficial and convenient.
This makes the water filter suitable for the interior kitchen, but can also be used in the garden or caravan. Nevertheless, there is room for a reverse osmosis system, since it is equipped with not only six filter cartridges, but also a 12-liter tank. As a result, more osmosis water is obtained, and the waiting time during filtration is reduced.
Filters and membranes of sediment and activated carbon cleanse water step by step and thoroughly, but also remove useful minerals. Here comes into play a special feature of the reverse osmosis system, mentioned at the beginning. As a final installation of the filter, the ultrapure water passes through the mineralizer, where it is again enriched with minerals. This allows you to do without bottled and still mineral water from the supermarket, even if the water quality is poor.
The prefilter filters are in three flasks. Usually a mechanical filter is placed at 5 microns, then a carbon filter, and at the end one more mechanical filter per 1 micron, but this set can be changed depending on the water quality
Before installation, it does not hurt to understand exactly how the liquid moves through the system. First you need to make a sidebar in the water pipe to connect to it a hose that connects the water pipe to the prefilter filters. Water passes these filters, leaving in their cartridges particles of mechanical and chemical impurities.
An additional mixer for easy separation between filtered and unfiltered water. Decalifies tap water, removes chemicals and microorganisms, as well as an unpleasant odor and taste, an optically attractive fitting, and under the washbasin the hidden water filter system adds minerals again to the water at the last stage. A sink or desktop should be constantly changed. Relatively high cost and space. Three filter stators provide enhanced water purification in an osmotic water filter.
The fine filter removes sediments and suspended solids, which can cloud the water and block the membrane. The activated carbon block is installed as the second pre-filter. It binds pollutants that degrade the aroma of water and are not only undesirable in aquarium water, but also in drinking water. As a third and actual filter, the membrane cartridge is located in a reverse osmosis system.
Then the prepared stream moves to the membrane and passes through its body. Two hoses leave the membrane block. One of them is intended for concentrate and connected to a sewage system. Using this hose, contaminants are disposed of. On the second hose the permeate, i.e. purified water, comes to the expansion tank.
Pre-filtered water diffuses through the membrane as opposed to osmotic pressure. This removes additional particles, microorganisms and chemicals from the water. The result is high purity water that not only decolorizes and neutralizes by smell and taste, but also does not contain many other impurities. However, a reverse osmosis system requires a lot of time. However, this is the maximum. Therefore, the provision of drinking water and water for cooking is apparently unfavorable because of the long duration at the time of withdrawal.
The elements of the reverse osmosis system are compact enough in size, so they are not difficult to install in the space under the kitchen sink
Here, water is stored and stored. It is practically impossible to dispense with this capacity and ensure the proper functioning of the reverse osmosis system. The fact is that the average productivity of a household membrane is usually about seven liters per hour. For everyday needs, such a slow flow at some point may not be enough.
What is included in the maintenance of the reverse osmosis system?
For aquarists, however, it is quite enough. In addition, high purity water can be collected and used outside the aquarium. For this versatility, the compact system of osmosis 130, however, is very economical.
- Very economical filter blocks can be replaced individually.
- Long-term effectiveness of filter cartridges.
- Necessity in a small space.
- Connection via the adapter is also possible elsewhere.
- Relatively large accumulation of residual water.
The storage tank completely solves the problem. It stores a sufficient amount of pure water, which is constantly replenished as the fluid decreases. After the expansion tank, water can be fed directly to the tap for drinking water, but this is rarely done.
If it is decided to provide the house with high-quality water, it makes sense to pay extra for a quality post-filter, mineralizer or other similar device. Some people prefer to use several such blocks at once. In this case, you need to select a drinking faucet with two valves. It is connected in such a way that only purified water enters through one valve, and through another one - enriched with minerals.
In addition, the model offers a practical function. The reverse osmosis system consists of three filters. In the first stage, a thin filter releases water from suspended particles, such as rust, dirt and dust. As a result, the activated carbon block binds aromatic interfering inorganic and organic compounds to neutralize odor and taste.
Reviews about models «Aquaphor»
The actual central element of the water filter is a polyamide polysulfone membrane. There water diffuses and even gets rid of small particles. As a result, water of high purity is obtained - if desired, using a reverse osmosis system. However, this, on the one hand, is very small in mineral resources, since minerals such as calcium, potassium and magnesium are also removed during filtration.
This is done in order not to use mineralized or structured water for cooking, as this effect will simply disappear when boiled. Thus, the use of a valve with two valves can increase the service life of the mineralizer.
Installation of reverse osmosis system
It is relatively easy to install such a system, especially since the manufacturer usually supplies each set with detailed and understandable instructions. Before starting work, it is recommended to empty the space under the sink, clean it. Since water can spill during the work, it does not hurt to have at hand some kind of container, for example, a bucket, as well as a rag.
The order of work looks like this:
- First they make a cut in the water supply.
- Then install a tap for drinking water.
- After that, connect the sewage system.
- Then install the storage tank.
- Collect and fix the pre-filtration unit, membrane and post-filters.
- All elements are connected with hoses.
- Run the system.
Before starting the installation of reverse osmosis water, the system should be unpacked, inspected, and studied instructions. Also it is necessary to check the complete set of the reverse osmosis system. If some elements are missing or need replacing, you should deal with these problems in advance.
The process of tapping into the water pipe
Typically, the reverse osmosis system includes the elements necessary for connection to the water supply: a half-inch tee-type "Papa-Mama", as well as a tap by a quarter of an inch, to which the hose will be connected in the future. First, of course, it is necessary to close the cold water supply.
When connecting the reverse osmosis system to the water pipe use a special tee. All threaded joints are sealed with linen thread or FUM tape
The tee is then installed. To do this, unscrew the flexible piping to the tap of cold water and attach the tee between the spout and the tap. All threaded connections are carefully sealed with a FSM tape. Then a stopcock is attached to the tee.
Drinking water tap
If there is an additional hole on the sink, for example, for a dispenser of liquid detergent, it can be used under the drinking faucet of a reverse osmosis system. If this hole is not available, it will have to be done by yourself. Particular care should be taken when working on an enamel surface, so as not to damage the protective layer.
To install a tap of drinking water in the shell of the kitchen sink, make a hole 13 mm in diameter with an electric drill
In this case, first remove the enamel layer with a 13 mm diamond drill bit. The enamel needs to be completely removed to expose the metal base. After that, you need to make a hole in the metal, using a 7 mm drill bit at low speed. Some experts also recommend adding a couple of drops of engine oil in the drilling site. After that, the drilling is repeated, but already with a 13 mm drill.
The tap of drinking water of the reverse osmosis system is most often placed on a kitchen sink. Laconic design suitable for almost any interior
After that, the tap of drinking water is connected with the decorative panel that will cover the hole, and the gasket, and then install in the hole made. From the bottom, the device is tightened with a special clamping nut while holding it with your hand or with a key.
Connection to sewage system
To connect to the sewer, use a special drain clamp. The location of the tie-in should be at a level above the water seal, i.e. siphon. First, a hole with a diameter of seven millimeters is made in the tube. Place the frame with a special gasket, which is glued around the hole.
The place of connection of the reverse osmosis system to the sewage system should be placed above the water trap in the siphon, which is located under the kitchen sink
Now we need to assemble the clamp support on the hole so that the gaps of these two elements coincide. The easiest way to do this is if you put the same drill in which the work was done in both holes. Now it is necessary to tighten and tighten both screws one by one on the yoke. The element should fit snugly against the pipe, but do not overtighten the fasteners.
How to install a storage tank
Usually the drive is mounted vertically on a special stand. But if there is such a need, it can be placed horizontally or fixed on brackets. If the space under the sink is not enough, the storage tank is placed somewhere near, for example, in a nearby kitchen cupboard. For hoses, you will have to make small holes in the walls of the kitchen furniture.
The accumulation tank of the reverse osmosis system is most often installed vertically on a special stand. During installation, it is necessary to check the working air pressure in the tank and adjust it in accordance with the standard values
The tank itself must be prepared before installation - a plastic tap must be attached to the threaded joint. To do this, the thread is sealed with Teflon tape. Another important point is the pressure in the tank. In the absence of water, it should be about 0.54-0.95 atm. Pressure is measured with a pressure gauge and, if necessary, air is pumped into the tank.
Filtration of filters and membranes
The flasks of the prefilter filters are fixed on a special lath, which can be hung on the wall of the kitchen cupboard under the sink. The location should be easily accessible so that it is convenient to replace the used cartridges. To open the flasks, you should use a special key.
The flasks with prefilter filters are fixed on a special stand, which is hung on the wall. It is important to ensure free access to these items in order to replace the cartridges
After the filters are installed, on top of the special holders, install the housing in which the reverse osmosis membrane is located. Over the membrane, fix the post-filter and mineralizer or other modules. After that, all the elements of the system are connected by hoses, which are fixed with special fixatives.
Hose holes in the reverse osmosis system are protected by transport plugs. These plugs must only be removed before connecting the hoses
The order of the connection is usually fully described in the instruction. It is necessary to connect the water supply with prefilters. Remove water from the filters to the membrane, and then from the membrane to conduct two hoses: to the sewer and to the storage tank. From the tap of the drive, the hose is taken out to the post-filter, and then to the tap of drinking water. Another hose is passed through the mineralizer.
Running the reverse osmosis system
Once the reverse osmosis water treatment unit has been assembled, it must be properly started. First, open the water tap to check for leaks. Now the tap on the storage tank is closed and waiting for water to flow through the drinking cock at the sink. Water should drip slowly, this is normal.
The system is left in this position for about a quarter of an hour. This is necessary to perform the washing of the charcoal filter. Now you need to open the tap of the storage tank and close the drinking cock. The process of collecting water in the tank begins. The system should be left without intervention for about one and a half to three hours.
The primary water accumulated in the tank should be completely drained into the sewage system. After that, the water is again opened for cleaning. When the tank is full, you can start using the reverse osmosis system in normal mode.
If, after starting the system, drinking water has a milky shade and contains small air bubbles, do not worry. This is the effect of air dissolved in water, it is not dangerous. This effect will disappear after a few days or weeks.
Too much contamination of prefilter filters, as well as the presence of mucus on the cartridges may be a sign of reduced pressure in the water supply network. The problem is usually solved with the help of a pump.
Sometimes washing the charcoal filter can cause contamination of the third filter immediately after installation. To prevent this from happening, the third filter should be installed after the carbon cartridge is rinsed. But do not try to rinse the charcoal filter under a stream of running water, so it can be spoiled.
Do not neglect the rinsing of the carbon cartridge, as this can lead to a rapid clogging of the membrane. The same effect can produce too high a pressure in the water supply system, too little replacement of prefilter filters or use of substandard cartridges, clogging of sewerage.
If the scale forms during boiling water in the kettle, check the connection order. Perhaps a drinking hose connected to a hose, which receives concentrates, and purified water goes to the sewer.
If the purified water has not acquired a characteristic odor and taste, it is necessary to check the prefilter as soon as possible. Perhaps their resource is exhausted, a replacement is needed. Also this phenomenon may indicate the presence of bacterial contamination.
The membrane cartridge of the reverse osmosis system is in a plastic casing. It must be replaced every 3-5 years, depending on the salt content of purified water
The pre-filter cartridges should be replaced every six months or more often. A new membrane should usually be inserted every three to five years. The state of treated water should be checked annually. If the salt content exceeds 20 mg / l, the membrane must be replaced.
Reverse Osmosis Systems: An Interesting Video
A detailed video instruction on installing the reverse osmosis system "Genesis Prestige" is presented here:
This video contains useful information on replacing prefilter filters:
Install a reverse osmosis system is not so difficult. It is necessary to carefully study the instructions and follow the manufacturer's recommendations exactly. And timely maintenance of the system and replacement of used elements will provide the house with quality drinking water.
1.1 Equipment for reverse osmosis
Modern industrial installations of reverse osmosis - this is, basically, multi-stage water purification systems, which consist of several functional modules for stage-by-stage purification and disinfection.
In the filter housing under pressure, a flow of incoming water flows through the membrane and is cleaned, after which the water is divided into two streams: purified liquid and waste with a high concentration of contaminants.
Purified water is usually called permeate, and contaminated water is called concentrate. After passage of the carbon filter, the permeate is discharged to the water consuming devices, or to the storage tank, and the concentrate is drained into the sewage systemy.
The main principle of the method, which is the key to high-quality water treatment, is the high pressure of the water flow as it passes through the filter. For maintenance of a necessary level of pressure there corresponds a rotary or a centrifugal pump, which is a very important part of the water supply system.
Without a quality pump that would maintain the pressure in the system, the water simply would not pass through the membranes at the optimum speed.
Since reverse osmosis membranes are very delicate designs, their regular cleaning from precipitation and accumulation of pollutants is necessary. This cleaning does not need to be done manually - the entire process is fully automated.
Membrane protection is carried out in two stages: the first is pre-treatment, special chemicals are used for this purpose, which reduce the formation of sediment, the second is the removal of contaminants, for which special filter washing systems are responsible.
This approach ensures that there is no loss of productivity, and efficient operation of the membranes throughout the life of the resource.
2 Reverse Osmosis Filter Manufacturers
In order for you to be able to better navigate the diversity of reverse osmosis devices, we decided to make a rating of manufacturers whose products should be oriented when choosing a water treatment system.
At once we will notice that the majority of experts converge in one opinion: preference should be given to domestic manufacturers as devices of foreign firms can have the best technical characteristics and more colorful description.
But in most cases all these advantages remain exclusively on paper, but in reality they are not anything special.
Domestic companies that care for their reputation, put on the market devices designed to take into account the most common pollutants in our water and other nuances. In addition, the question of maintainability is of no small importance, and Russian manufacturers also have an advantage over this indicator.
Filters from this line have a five-stage water purification system that performs a high-quality softening , removal of mechanical impurities, disinfection, as well as additional mineralization and saturation of water with useful substances.
In addition, a complete storage tank is included with them. Reverse Osmosis Barrier is the best choice among domestic water purification devices.
One of the market leaders among domestic producers is the company "Geyser", which entered our rating on the second position. Systems of reverse osmosis "Geyser Prestige" are very popular in the market.
In fact, these are devices that have an exceptionally positive reputation - their quality and efficiency are confirmed both by high marks of experts and by positive user feedback.
Closed rating company "Aquaphor" - a company that was one of the first to develop the technology of reverse osmosis in the vastness of Russia. Their devices have proven themselves as good workhorses, which perfectly perform their functions throughout their life.
In general, apart from the well-known manufacturers who have entered the rating, we can also mention the firm "Atoll" - a relatively new player in the market of cleaning devices, which with its technologies is rapidly gaining popularity.
If the quality of the products of this company does not decrease - soon it will be able to lead any rating of producers of reverse osmosis filters.
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