Project Summary
- Hours of Operation: 2 to 4 hours
- Overall Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Output: Water purification system utilizing reverse osmosis technology.
- Proficiency Level: Intermediate
- Projected Expense: $150 to $1000
Implementing a reverse osmosis water filtration system provides numerous benefits compared to other filtration methods, as it typically incorporates four to five distinct filtration stages that effectively eliminate the most dangerous impurities. Within a reverse osmosis system, a semipermeable membrane is utilized to filter out ions, molecules, and larger particles from the water, including toxic heavy metals like lead.
When compared to other point-of-use filtration methods, reverse osmosis is generally more efficient than basic carbon filtration systems, while being significantly more affordable than ultraviolet disinfection systems, which excel at eliminating pathogens. Additionally, reverse osmosis filtration systems are simple to clean and maintain, and they are fully endorsed by the EPA.
Here, we provide a comprehensive guide on the correct installation of a reverse osmosis water filtration system.
Contents
Tip
In situations where water sources are properly chlorinated, a reverse osmosis system may be the optimal option, despite its inefficiency, as it consumes five gallons of water for each gallon of purified water generated.
Whole-House vs. Point-of-Use Reverse Osmosis Systems
Although there are various reverse osmosis systems available for treating all the water in a household, it is more common to install an under-counter unit under the kitchen sink, as this is where the majority of water for drinking and cooking is sourced.
These point-of-use reverse osmosis filters consist of four or five distinct filtration cartridges, each designed to target specific types of contaminants. Additionally, they feature a storage tank to keep the filtered water. A dedicated countertop faucet, distinct from the main kitchen tap, provides access to the purified water as required.
While the principles behind reverse osmosis filtration can be complex, the installation process is relatively simple and only demands fundamental plumbing abilities.
Prior to Starting
Prior to buying a reverse osmosis (RO) system, it’s important to assess the area under your sink. Since the reverse osmosis process thoroughly purifies the water, the flow rate is relatively slow. Consequently, these systems are equipped with a storage tank to hold the filtered water, ensuring it’s readily available for use.
Nonetheless, this tank requires considerable space. If your sink cabinet is cluttered with a garbage disposal or various other items, accommodating an RO unit along with its tank and several filters might prove challenging.
Remote Installation of Reverse Osmosis Systems
If there isn’t sufficient space under your sink, point-of-use reverse osmosis systems can be set up in alternative areas like a basement, garage, or utility room, and then connected to the sink.
When opting for a remote installation, ensure that the filtration system is set up on the cold water line after the water softener, if your home has one. Be aware that remote setups will involve more installation effort. Additionally, you might need to purchase extra tubing to link the various parts.
Requirements
Devices / Instruments
- Measuring tape
- Screwdrivers
- Level
- Adjustable spanner
- Hacksaw
- Adjustable pliers
Materials
- Under-sink reverse osmosis filtration system kit
- Tee adapter (if required)
- Plumber’s thread-sealing tape
Instructions
Steps for Installing a Reverse Osmosis System
Organize the Setup
Assess the area under the sink to confirm there is sufficient space for a reverse osmosis system. Additionally, identify the cold water source that will be utilized. Typically, most systems include a tee connection that connects to the 1/2-inch cold water supply line leading to the faucet. Alternatively, some reverse osmosis systems utilize a 3/8-inch flexible line that descends from the faucet. In such instances, an adapter tee can be installed above the shut-off valve to supply water to the filtration system.
Set up the Reverse Osmosis System.
After acquiring your reverse osmosis system, open the packaging for the storage tank and filter parts, and verify that they will fit in the intended spots beneath the kitchen sink.
Tip
Before cutting and gluing any plumbing components, it’s advisable to do a test fit. This will help you determine if any modifications to the drain or water supply pipes are needed, which might necessitate the help of a professional plumber.
Set up the sink faucet.
Begin by installing the sink-top spigot of the filter to allow the lines to be routed beneath the countertop before the area beneath the sink becomes congested. To accomplish this, adhere to the following steps:
- Install the RO spigot onto the kitchen sink deck or countertop using the supplied hardware. Most sinks come with a pre-existing knock-out opening suitable for the spigot. Occasionally, the knock-out designed for a sink sprayer can also accommodate the spigot for the filter. If necessary, you can create a new hole in the sink deck or countertop to fit the filter’s spigot.
- Guide the water line through the opening and attach the air gap (red tube) to the faucet prior to securing the spigot to the housing.
Set up and place the tank.
Prior to placing the RO tank under the sink, begin by attaching the tank connector. Wrap plumber’s tape around the threads of the tank nipple, then carefully screw the spigot connector onto the tank, ensuring that you do not cross-thread. The connector should be tightened by hand and should screw on smoothly. Next, position the tank under the sink, ideally directly beneath the spigot on the sink’s surface.
Install the Filter Assembly.
To set up the filters, proceed with the following instructions:
- Take off the cover of the filter assembly and indicate the positions for the hanger washers on the wall beneath the sink, utilizing a level to confirm the unit is aligned properly. The assembly must be installed at least 15-1/2 inches above the floor to provide sufficient space for filter removal during maintenance.
- Attach the hanger washers to the wall at the designated spots, and then place the assembly onto the washers.
Connect the Water Pipe
The green 1/4-inch water line from the filter assembly needs to be linked to the water supply line. Begin by shutting off the water supply. The method for establishing this initial tubing connection may differ based on your specific circumstances. Most filters include a 1/2-inch adapter that is suitable for a sink faucet equipped with a 1/2-inch flex line. However, if the sink faucet has flex tubes of a different diameter, you will require an adapter tee to connect to the water supply line that leads to the filter unit. The green supply line is attached to the adapter tee using a nut, ferrule, and insert.
Attach the additional tubing.
- A pipe connecting the water source to the initial container of the filtration system (the prefilter).
- A pipe connecting the final canister filter (the RO filter) to the sink’s drainage system.
- A pipe leading to the storage reservoir.
- Ultimately, a pipe extends from the storage tank to the faucet on the countertop.
- In certain 5-stage filtration systems, the water from the storage tank is additionally passed through a polishing filter before reaching the faucet at the sink.
Tip
Remember that tubing setups may differ, so it’s essential to refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for the correct tubing connections.
In this specific reverse osmosis setup, the yellow tube connects to the storage tank, the blue tube is inserted into the RO assembly, and the black tube is attached to the drain adapter. Prior to attaching the yellow tube, ensure to adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines for sanitizing the system.
Link the Drainage System
A drain tee is provided with the whirlpool reverse osmosis system. To connect the system to the drain, proceed with the following steps:
- Align the tee fitting of the filter with the current drain pipe, then mark the pipe and cut it with a hacksaw. Ensure that the cuts are precise so that the tee fits snugly.
- Attach the drain tee fitting of the filter to the drain pipe by utilizing the supplied slip washers and nuts, following the same assembly method as that of a drain trap.
- Insert the black drain tube of the filter into the adapter tee.
Conduct a Pressure Assessment
To pressurize and evaluate the RO system, adhere to the following procedures:
- Activate the water supply and open the cold faucet at the sink to release any trapped air from the pipes. The system’s pressure will begin to increase, and you should allow approximately two hours to achieve maximum pressure.
- After pressurizing the system, inspect all fittings and secure any that are loose or showing signs of leakage.
- Prior to consuming the water, ensure to flush the system by keeping the faucet open and letting it run continuously for 24 hours to fully clear it. Once the tank is depleted, the water will flow slowly. Maintain the faucet in the open position for the entire 24-hour period and regularly check for any leaks during this time.
Is it possible to install a reverse osmosis filter on your own?
A reverse osmosis filtration system can be installed by individuals with basic plumbing knowledge. Nevertheless, there are instances where relocating the drain or water supply line might be necessary, which could necessitate the assistance of a professional plumber.
What is the price for installing a reverse osmosis water filtration system?
HomeAdvisor reports that the typical cost for installing a reverse osmosis water filtration system is around $2,200. In contrast, a point-of-use reverse osmosis system may be available for as little as $150. Conversely, a comprehensive whole-home reverse osmosis system can exceed $4,800.
Does reverse osmosis water cause damage to plumbing systems?
Water that undergoes treatment through a reverse osmosis filtration system has a significantly low level of total dissolved solids (TDS), making it more susceptible to dissolving substances it encounters. As this low-TDS water flows through pipes and fixtures, it can gradually erode them. In the case of copper plumbing, this can lead to copper leaching into the water, which can be a health risk and can also lead to the deterioration of the pipes over time. To mitigate this issue, many users choose to combine reverse osmosis systems with plumbing materials that are less likely to leach, such as PEX.
