Reverse Osmosis Water Systems: Are They Worth It?

Reverse Osmosis Water Systems: Are They Worth It?

If you've ever wondered about the quality of your tap water, you're not alone. Many Calgary homeowners are turning to reverse osmosis (RO) water systems to ensure their families have access to clean, great-tasting drinking water. But are they really worth the investment?

What Is Reverse Osmosis?

Reverse osmosis is a water purification process that uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove contaminants from water. Water is pushed through the membrane under pressure, leaving impurities behind and producing clean, filtered water.

A typical under-sink RO system includes multiple filtration stages:

1. **Sediment pre-filter** — removes dirt, sand, and rust particles

2. **Carbon pre-filter** — removes chlorine, taste, and odour

3. **RO membrane** — removes up to 99% of dissolved contaminants

4. **Carbon post-filter** — final polish for taste

What Does Reverse Osmosis Remove?

RO systems are highly effective at removing a wide range of contaminants:

- **Lead and mercury**

- **Chlorine and chloramine**

- **Fluoride**

- **Arsenic**

- **Nitrates and sulfates**

- **Bacteria and parasites**

- **Pharmaceuticals and pesticides**

- **Total dissolved solids (TDS)**

The Pros of Reverse Osmosis

Superior Water Quality

RO produces some of the cleanest drinking water available for residential use. If you're concerned about contaminants in Calgary's municipal water supply, an RO system provides peace of mind.

Great Taste

Most people notice an immediate improvement in water taste after installing an RO system. Cooking with RO water can also improve the flavour of soups, coffee, tea, and other beverages.

Cost Savings Over Bottled Water

If your family buys bottled water regularly, an RO system pays for itself quickly. The average family spends $500–$1,000 per year on bottled water. An RO system produces clean water for pennies per litre.

Low Maintenance

Modern RO systems require minimal maintenance. Filters typically need replacing every 6–12 months, and the RO membrane lasts 2–3 years. Total annual maintenance cost is usually under $100.

Environmentally Friendly

By eliminating the need for plastic water bottles, you're reducing your household's plastic waste and carbon footprint.

The Cons to Consider

Water Waste

Traditional RO systems produce wastewater — typically 3–4 litres of waste for every 1 litre of filtered water. However, newer high-efficiency models have significantly reduced this ratio.

Removes Beneficial Minerals

RO removes everything, including beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium. Some systems include a remineralization stage to add these back. You can also get minerals from a balanced diet.

Slower Flow Rate

RO systems filter water more slowly than other filtration methods. Most systems include a storage tank to ensure you always have filtered water ready.

Installation Cost

A quality under-sink RO system typically costs between $300–$800 installed. While this is an upfront investment, the long-term savings on bottled water make it worthwhile.

Is an RO System Right for Your Home?

A reverse osmosis system is an excellent investment if:

- You're concerned about **water quality and contaminants**

- Your family currently **buys bottled water**

- Someone in your home has a **compromised immune system**

- You want the **best-tasting water** for drinking and cooking

- You're looking for a **long-term, eco-friendly solution**

Our Recommendation

For most Calgary homes, a quality under-sink reverse osmosis system is a worthwhile investment. The combination of superior water quality, great taste, and long-term savings makes it an easy decision for health-conscious homeowners.

At Air Force Heating, we can help you choose and install the right water filtration system for your home. Our licensed technicians ensure proper installation for optimal performance.

**Call (403) 463-7700** or [contact us](/contact) to learn more about water treatment options for your home.