Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration

Reverse osmosis pushes water through a semipermeable membrane under pressure, which blocks dissolved solids and other contaminants that pass through simpler filters. Most residential systems pair the membrane stage with sediment and carbon pre-filters and a post-filter, delivering highly filtered water to a dedicated faucet.

Reverse osmosis is designed to reduce dissolved solids, sediment, and chlorine taste and odor, among other contaminants, but exactly what a given system reduces — and by how much — depends on its specific membrane and certification. Citrus Plumbing installs several different reverse osmosis systems and can point you to the manufacturer's tested performance data for whichever one fits your water and budget.

Pre-filters and post-filters typically need replacing every 6 to 12 months depending on water use and household size. The manufacturer's schedule for the specific system installed is the one to follow.

Usually every 2 to 3 years, longer than the pre- and post-filters. The membrane does the finer filtering work and clogs more slowly than the earlier filter stages.

Yes. Most under-sink reverse osmosis systems can be plumbed to a refrigerator or ice maker with an additional dedicated line, either at the time of installation or added later.

Most residential reverse osmosis installations are completed in a single visit, without shutting off water to the rest of the house.