Reverse Osmosis Filters

What Is a Reverse Osmosis Filter and How Does It Work?

Reverse osmosis (RO) filters are advanced water purification systems that use a semipermeable membrane to remove a wide array of contaminants from water. By applying pressure, these systems force water molecules through the membrane, leaving behind unwanted substances like dissolved salts, heavy metals, bacteria, and more. This highly efficient method of water filtration is widely used in both household and industrial settings.

How Do Reverse Osmosis Filters Work?

At the heart of every RO filter is a simple yet powerful principle: separating water molecules from impurities using pressure and a semipermeable membrane.

Step-by-Step Process:

Pre-Filtration: Before reaching the RO membrane, water goes through one or more sediment filters to remove larger particles like sand, rust, and silt. It often also passes through carbon filters to remove chlorine, which can damage the RO membrane and affect taste and odour.
Membrane Filtration: The pressurized water then flows through the semipermeable membrane, which filters out contaminants as small as single atoms. This includes up to 95-99% of total dissolved solids (TDS) like fluoride, arsenic, PFAS, nitrates, and more.
Post-Filtration: Some RO systems feature an additional filtration stage to remove specific contaminants such as pharmaceuticals, chloramine, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and even bacteria.

What Contaminants Do Reverse Osmosis Filters Remove?

RO filters are known for their extensive contaminant removal capabilities. They can eliminate:

Heavy metals like lead, mercury, and arsenic
Fluoride and nitrates
Chlorine and chloramine
PFAS (also known as "forever chemicals")
Pharmaceutical residues
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
Bacteria and viruses (especially when used with advanced post-filtration)

Explore Reverse Osmosis Filters at Our Canadian Warehouse

Replacement Cartridge Kit for Vectapure NX™ Systems

The Replacement Cartridge Kit for Vectapure NX™ Systems is compatible with both 75 GPD and 400 GPD models. It includes two Coconut Carbon Block Filter Cartridges (CBC5CT03), one Sediment Filter Cartridge (PP1005NX), and one Inline Carbon Filter Cartridge (AIC10EZ). Suitable for use with RO453H, RO4153H, RO405400NX, and RO405400TNX Reverse Osmosis Systems.

Vectapure 360 Green Carbon Block Replacement Filter Cartridge

The Vectapure 360 Green Carbon Block Replacement Filter Cartridge offers an easy, efficient way to improve water quality by reducing chlorine, odours, and unpleasant taste. Featuring advanced carbon block technology and a convenient quarter-turn installation system, it requires no water shutoff and fits seamlessly into various Vectapure 360 systems. With a compact 2.5" x 12" design, it supports a 30–125 PSI pressure range and delivers up to six months of clean, refreshing water for both homes and businesses.

Vectapure 360 Replacement Filter Cartridge Kit for V3604RO Systems

The Vectapure 360 Replacement Filter Cartridge Kit for V3604RO Systems offers quick, tool-free maintenance with colour-coded, quick-twist cartridges for easy installation. The kit includes one 5-micron sediment filter (blue) and two 5-micron carbon block filters (green), delivering effective filtration to reduce sediment, chlorine, and other impurities for cleaner, better-tasting water. With optimized flow rates (3.8 LPM for sediment, 1.9 LPM for carbon) and a recommended filter life of 3–6 months, this kit ensures peak system performance and reliable water quality with minimal effort.

FAQs

1. What makes reverse osmosis different from regular water filters?

Reverse osmosis filters use a semi-permeable membrane that removes up to 99% of contaminants, including dissolved salts, heavy metals, and microorganisms—something traditional carbon or sediment filters can’t achieve. Unlike regular filters that only trap larger particles or chlorine, RO forces water through microscopic pores, delivering much purer drinking water.

2. Can reverse osmosis water taste flat or bland compared to tap water?

Yes, many users notice RO water tastes "flat" because it strips away not only harmful impurities but also beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium, which contribute to water’s flavour. However, this is easily remedied with a remineralization filter that adds healthy minerals back into the water, improving both taste and pH balance.

3. How often should I replace the reverse osmosis membrane to keep water safe?

The RO membrane typically lasts 2–3 years, depending on water quality and usage. However, pre-filters (like sediment and carbon) need to be changed every 6–12 months to protect the membrane. Failing to replace these on time can clog the membrane prematurely or reduce filtration performance.

4. Why does my reverse osmosis system waste water, and is it normal?

Yes, it’s normal—RO systems use water to flush away contaminants, usually producing 3–4 gallons of wastewater per gallon of purified water. However, newer systems and upgrades like permeate pumps or zero-waste RO setups can dramatically reduce this ratio, making them more environmentally friendly.

5. Is reverse osmosis filtration safe for babies and people with weak immune systems?

Reverse osmosis is one of the safest water filtration methods available, removing bacteria, viruses, and heavy metals that could be harmful to infants or immunocompromised individuals. For infants, especially, using RO water with added minerals ensures both safety and proper hydration without overexposure to fluoride or nitrates.