Understanding Water Hardness and Its Impact on Your Reverse Osmosis (RO) System

Water hardness refers to the concentration of calcium and magnesium ions in water, typically measured in grains per gallon (GPG) or parts per million (ppm). While water hardness doesn't directly affect the operation of your Reverse Osmosis (RO) system, it can influence the longevity and performance of your system's filters, especially the RO membrane.

City Water vs. Well Water Hardness

• City Water (Municipal Water Supply): Average hardness typically ranges between 3 to 8 grains per gallon (GPG) or 50 to 150 parts per million (ppm).
• Well Water: Average hardness typically ranges between 7 to 20 GPG or 120 to 350 ppm.

To get an accurate understanding of your water's hardness, you can contact your city's water treatment center for a report. Keep in mind that this is a rough estimate, as the hardness can change due to piping conditions between the treatment center and your home. Alternatively, you can purchase test strips or liquid test kits to test the water at the source coming into your home.

Recommended Water Hardness Levels

For optimal performance and to extend the lifespan of your RO membrane, it's recommended that water hardness be kept below 7 grains per gallon (GPG) or approximately 120 parts per million (ppm).

How Water Hardness Affects Your RO System

• Shortened Filter Life: Higher levels of water hardness can lead to a shorter lifespan of your RO system’s filters. The calcium and magnesium ions in hard water tend to build up on the filters, causing them to clog more quickly. This results in the need for more frequent filter replacements.
• Membrane Performance: While the RO system can still function with higher hardness levels, excessive hardness can place additional strain on the RO membrane, reducing its efficiency over time. This could potentially lead to more frequent replacements of the RO membrane.

TDS vs. Water Hardness

It's important to note that the Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) level in your water is the key indicator of your RO system’s performance, rather than the water hardness alone. The TDS level measures the combined content of all inorganic and organic substances in the water. Even if your water is hard, as long as the TDS coming out of the RO unit is within acceptable limits, your system is performing as it should.

Key Takeaways

• Ideal Water Hardness: Keep water hardness below 7 GPG (120 ppm) for optimal filter lifespan and membrane performance.
• System Functionality: Your RO system will continue to operate with any water hardness level, but higher hardness may increase the frequency of filter and membrane replacements.
• Focus on TDS: Monitor the TDS levels to ensure your RO system is delivering the clean water quality you expect.

Maintaining the right balance of water hardness will help ensure your RO system continues to operate efficiently, providing you with high-quality water for years to come. If you have concerns about your water hardness or need assistance with your RO system, please don't hesitate to contact our support team!