A reverse osmosis (RO) system is a multi-stage water filtration system that forces water through a semi-permeable membrane to reduce many dissolved contaminants. Most residential reverse osmosis systems also include sediment and carbon filters to improve water quality before it reaches the membrane, helping produce cleaner, better-tasting drinking water directly from your tap.

Reverse osmosis systems can reduce a wide range of contaminants, including total dissolved solids (TDS), lead, arsenic, nitrates, fluoride, sodium, chlorine, and many other dissolved impurities. The exact contaminants reduced depend on the system and your incoming water quality. If you're unsure what is in your water, a water test is the best place to start.

Many reverse osmosis systems are effective at reducing PFAS, often called "forever chemicals." While reduction performance varies by system and specific PFAS compounds, reverse osmosis is considered one of the most effective residential treatment methods currently available. If PFAS is your primary concern, our water experts can help recommend an appropriate system.

A standard reverse osmosis membrane can reduce many microorganisms, but it should not be relied upon as the primary treatment for microbiologically unsafe water. If your water comes from a private well or has tested positive for bacteria, we typically recommend a properly sized UV disinfection system in addition to appropriate filtration.

Yes, many homeowners install both. A water softener removes hardness minerals throughout the home, while a reverse osmosis system is designed to produce high-quality drinking water at a single faucet. In fact, softened water often helps extend the life of the reverse osmosis membrane by reducing scale buildup.

It can be, but it depends on what's in your well water. Reverse osmosis is excellent for reducing many dissolved contaminants, but well water often requires pre-treatment for iron, manganese, sulfur, sediment, or bacteria before an RO system. Testing your water ensures you choose the right combination of treatment equipment.

Most sediment and carbon pre-filters should be replaced every 6 to 12 months, while the reverse osmosis membrane typically lasts 2 to 5 years depending on water quality and usage. Following the recommended maintenance schedule helps keep your system performing at its best and protects the membrane from premature wear.

For many homeowners, reverse osmosis offers the convenience of high-quality drinking water without the ongoing cost, storage, and plastic waste associated with bottled water. Instead of purchasing bottled water week after week, an RO system provides filtered drinking water directly from your kitchen sink whenever you need it.