Have you ever wondered what actually happens under your sink when you turn on your drinking water faucet?
This is the full journey of water through a reverse osmosis system.
Step by step.
Step 1: Cold Water Feed
Everything starts with your cold water line.
- Water enters the system from your home’s cold water supply
- This line feeds directly into the reverse osmosis manifold
This is the starting point for filtration.
Step 2: Sediment Filter
The first filter is the sediment filter.
- Catches dirt, sand, rust, and debris
- Acts like a net for larger particles
- Protects the filters that come next
If sediment reaches the membrane, it shortens its life. This filter helps prevent that.
Step 3: Carbon Filter
Next, water flows through a granulated activated carbon filter.
- Reduces chlorine and chemical contaminants
- Improves taste and smell
- Prepares water for the membrane
This step helps protect the core of the system.
Step 4: Reverse Osmosis Membrane
This is the heart of the system.
- A semi-permeable membrane
- Removes dissolved solids and unwanted contaminants
- Separates clean water from waste water
This is what makes it a true reverse osmosis system.
Without this membrane, it’s not reverse osmosis.
Step 5: Remineralization Filter (Optional)
After purification, some systems add minerals back in.
- Adds healthy minerals
- Improves taste
- Raises pH for more balanced water
Think of it like a daily vitamin for your water.
Step 6: Storage Tank
Clean water moves into the storage tank.
- Holds purified water until you need it
- Keeps water ready on demand
- Helps maintain steady pressure at the faucet
This tank is why reverse osmosis systems deliver water when you want it.
Step 7: Delivery Pump (If Needed)
If the faucet or refrigerator is far from the tank, a pump may be used.
- Pressurizes water leaving the tank
- Maintains strong flow
- Helps prevent slow delivery
Not every setup needs one, but longer distances often do.
Step 8: Accumulator Tank and Final Filter
Before water reaches your glass, it passes through one final stage.
- Accumulator tank helps stabilize pressure
- Final polishing filter improves taste and odor
- Uses activated carbon for a clean finish
This step gives the water its final touch.
Step 9: Fresh Water at Your Sink
After all that filtration, water reaches your faucet.
- Clean
- Filtered
- Ready to drink
Every drop has passed through multiple stages designed to improve water quality and taste.
Is Reverse Osmosis Right for Your Home?
Reverse osmosis systems are a great option for any drinking water source.
- PFAS
- Chlorine
- Heavy metals
- Dissolved solids
- Unwanted taste and odor
Municipal water. Well water. Refrigerator lines.
If it’s water you drink, reverse osmosis can help.
Ready to Know What’s in Your Water?
You don’t have to guess about your drinking water.
- Understand what’s in your water
- See if reverse osmosis makes sense for your home
- Choose the right setup for your needs
Call 973-697-6055 to schedule your free water consultation.
Clear answers. No pressure. Better drinking water starts with a simple call.
Why keep wondering what’s coming out of your tap?
