Reverse Osmosis

Do I need a Reverse Osmosis device?  Most likely not.  It’s important to keep in mind that Rincon’s water, along with all public drinking water in the United States, must meet or exceed stringent state and federal government drinking water standards enacted by the Safe Drinking Water Act.  Federal and state laws also require the publishing of annual testing results to reassure consumers that those required standards are being met.  This annual report lists each constituent and “contaminants” that make up your water.  

It's important to note that all drinking, including bottled water may be reasonably expected to contain at least small amounts of some contaminants such as naturally occurring calcium, magnesium, sodium, and controversial fluoride.  The presence of contaminants, however, does not necessarily pose a health risk.

Note:  The word "contaminant" is not necessarily a bad thing.  In water quality, contaminant is a word that is used to describe anything in water that changes water's pure formula - H2O.

What is a Reverse Osmosis device?  Simply put, this is a water treatment device that, through an application of high pressure, forces water through a semi-permeable membrane.  The membrane, along with "pre" and "post" filters, is specifically sized to capture certain water contaminants such as iron, chlorine, iron, and silt. 

These types of systems produce water slowly and often a pressurized storage tank is installed within the system so that water is available to meet the demands of the consumer.  A special faucet is typically installed in the kitchen sink to deliver water from the pressurized storage tank.

Why would I need a Reverse Osmosis device?  Some people may be more vulnerable to contaminants in drinking water than the general population.  Immuno-compromised persons such a persons undergoing chemotherapy, persons who have undergone organ transplants, people with HIV/AIDS or other immune system disorders, some elderly, and infants can be particularly at risk from infections.  These people should seek advice from their health care providers to determine if a reverse osmosis device is necessary.

Apart from immuno-compromised health issues, some people simply prefer a different tasting water.  A reverse osmosis device can alter the taste of water by removing contaminants that affect the taste of water. There are other water treatment devices (filters, distillers, and softeners) that may accomplish this task at a lower cost.