How does an RO membrane work?

Reverse osmosis water filtration systems work by using high pressure to force water through a
semipermeable reverse osmosis membrane element. RO membranes are made of a thick
polyamide film that contains tiny pores through which water can flow. RO membrane element
pore sizes can vary from 0.1 to 5,000 nanometers (nm) depending on application. The pores in
the RO membrane are small enough to restrict organic compounds such as minerals and salt, but
allow water molecules to pass through. Reverse osmosis membranes are also porous and
restrictive enough to filter out disease causing pathogens and bacteria from water.

About RO membrane life expectancy

Typically RO membranes have an estimated life expectancy of about 2 years. There are many
variables that come into play in determining a RO membranes life expectancy, such as feed
water quality and amount of use. There are methods for cleaning a reverse osmosis membrane
but often are not cost effective for residential RO systems.
About RO membrane fouling
All reverse osmosis membranes lose their performance and will foul over time. One of the
primary reasons for RO membrane fouling is because of substances that deposit on the reverse
osmosis membrane surface. The RO membrane elements can become fouled by suspended
solids, microorganisms, and build-up from mineral scale. Examples of suspended solids often
found in feed water can include oil, silica, clay, iron, sulfur and acids. To increase the life of
your RO membrane, reduce most of these suspended solids before the water enters the
membrane. Use a 5 micron carbon prefilter cartridge before the reverse osmosis membrane. This
will help, but may not completely remove all suspended solids that cause a RO membrane to
foul.