RO is very effective in reducing a range of home water contaminants.  This is possible because the reverse osmosis  membrane is comprised of microscopic pores which allow the pressurized water molecules, among the smallest molecules known to man, to pass through contaminants, and even dissolved ions are left behind.  Additionally, RO systems always include a sediment pre-filter that traps fine suspended materials that permanently clog the membrane. RO systems also include a carbon pre-filter to remove chlorine, along with other contaminants that may damage RO membranes and affect that taste, color, and odor of the water.

Reverse osmosis is a low-energy process, useful for substantially reducing the complete dissolved mineral content of water.  the process is practical in sizes ranging from a few gallons to million of gallons per day.

Anyone concerned about the quality of their home drinking water -- particularly if they notice taste or odor problems or are aware of high levels of dissolves minerals in their water supply -- should consider an RO system.  Additionally, RO systems often are recommended for immune-comprised individuals who could be especially susceptible to infection from various waterborne contaminants.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends reverse osmosis as a method for removal of a dangerous microorganism cyst called Cryptosporidium.  Reverse osmosis systems, which generally include both and RO membrane and pre- and post-filters, offer a comprehensive means of eliminating more than 90 percent of potentially harmful contaminants in home drinking water.

A reverse osmosis system can treat for a variety of contaminants including:

Aluminum, Arsenic, Asbestos, Atrazine, Benzene, Chlorides, Chlorine, Copper, Cryptosporidium, Cyanide, Fluoride, Giardia, Lead, Mercury, Nitrates, Radium, Radon, Silver, Sodium, Sulfide, Trichloroethylene, and Total Trihalomethanes.

There are many benefits to installing a reverse osmosis system beyond greatly reduced concentrations of contaminants.  Cleaner, sparkling drinking water is probably the most noticeable.  Because there is little to alter the RO-treated water's natural state, the flavor of food can come though without any "chemical" taste.   Brewed items such as coffee, tea, or soups may have a richer, more robust flavor, and fruit juices and powdered drinks mixed with RO-treated water may taste better, too.   Even ice cubes can take on a crystal clear appearance.

Additionally, because of its low mineral content, using RO-purified water in household appliances such as steam irons and humidifiers can keep them working longer and more efficiently.

The membrane consists of several thin layers or sheets of film that are bonded together and rolled in a spiral configuration around a plastic tube. (This is also known as a thin film composite or TFC membrane) The material of the membrane is semi-permeable with .0001 micron pores. It allows water molecules pass through while acting as a barrier to dissolved solids (i.e.: mineral chemical contaminants). When the feed water stream passes across the surface of the membrane, the molecules penetrate the membrane surface, working their way around the spiral and collecting in the center tube. The remaining contaminants are concentrated and washed from the surface of the membrane down the drain.