With reportedly more than 2,000 toxic chemicals in the water that we drink, if you want clean water at home, you must find the right reverse osmosis system to help produce ’safe’ purified water.

Originally intended for industrial use, the domestic reverse osmosis filter system works by using high pressure to force water through a membrane. Minerals and impurities won’t be able to pass through the membrane, leaving the water that flows out, clean. The type of membrane and the water pressure used will influence the effectiveness of an osmosis system. The amount of contaminants in the water also affects how efficient the system is in purifying normal water.

It is important to understand that the concentration of toxins, water pressure and quality of membrane used to design a filtration system. There are generally two types of membranes used in reverse osmosis – the cellulose triacetate (CTA) membrane and the FTC membrane – each with their own functions. While CTA membranes are organic and more cost effective, they tend to attract bacteria growth and sometimes may generate a smaller volume of water with a lower quality.

The system that uses FTC membranes are made from inorganic materials and unlike the CTA membrane systems, are not susceptible to the growth of bacteria. These systems, unfortunately, are more expensive and may require an additional carbon pre-filter attachment to prevent chlorine in the water from damaging the membranes in this type of reverse osmosis system.

When going about finding the right reverse osmosis filter for cleaner water at home, you will find that there are two main types of systems – one with a tank and the other, tankless. Systems that use tanks typically consist of an internal plastic bladder that keeps the purified water before it is dispensed. Systems that are tankless have the ability to dispense their ‘clean water’ directly to taps instead.

A system that makes use of a tank to hold the purified water is a more traditional system and is generally cheaper than the tankless system. However, if you live in a place with space constraints, the more costly tankless system will suit you better as it takes up less space. You must know, however that the membranes used in a tankless system can be a little expensive to replace and a pressure booster pump may be required as an additional fitting because this system needs a pressure of at least 40 PSI to operate.

If you’re looking to finding the right reverse osmosis filter for cleaner water at home, you should also be aware of the disadvantages that accompany a water system. Apart from these systems costing a hefty amount and the purified water also expensively produced, the main drawback from using reverse osmosis is its removal almost all minerals from water, even trace minerals. As a result, supplements must also be taken to counteract the lack of vital minerals like calcium, magnesium and potassium found in normal drinking water.

If you’ve worked out your budget and are willing to spend the time and money in finding the right reverse osmosis filter for cleaner water at home, then installing and maintaining such a system may be a good answer to drinking cleaner water. Bear in mind, however, that there are many other water filters that are cheaper and more apt to serving your domestic needs.

Reverse osmosis filters that are used at home are typically fitted in a kitchen and used specifically for drinking and cooking. If you understand the benefits of using this type of water purification system, then you will understand the need to make your initial investment for a lifetime of safe, clean drinking water. Take your time in finding the right reverse osmosis system for cleaner water at home and you won’t need to spend top-dollar for a good filtering system that will serve you and your family well.