Low pressure in the RO system and how to fix it?

Are you tired of waiting minutes just to fill a single glass of water? A low-pressure water filter is one of the most common issues homeowners face, especially in areas where municipal supply is not consistent. 

It affects the flow of water and the performance of your RO purifier leaving homeowners frustrated and confused about what steps to take. In this blog, we will explain why low pressure is a problem, which purifiers work best in such situations, simple troubleshooting steps, and solutions to make sure you always get safe drinking water.

Why does water pressure matter in purifiers?

Did you know that water pressure directly affects how well your purifier works? RO systems generally require a minimum pressure of 40 to 60 psi to function properly. When the pressure falls below this it can lead to several major issues:

1. Inefficient filtration: 

The main function of a reverse osmosis system is to filter out contaminants using a semipermeable membrane. Low pressure hinders water from passing through this membrane effectively, which causes insufficient purification.

2. Increased wastewater: 

A low-pressure reverse osmosis system may produce more wastewater as the purification process becomes inefficient, which leads to higher water consumption and increased costs.

3. Bad taste and quality concerns:

Insufficient pressure may not allow the purifier to remove contaminants effectively dissolved solids, bacteria, and other impurities which may affect the taste and safety of the water.

Minimum pressure needed for different purifiers

Understanding the pressure requirements for various types of water purifiers is crucial when selecting the right system:

• RO Systems

The system works best when the pressure is between 40 to 60 psi. If the pressure is lower than it can cause the system to underperform or stop working completely.

• UV purifiers

Since purification depends on ultraviolet light to kill pathogens, they only need a steady flow of water. Its approximate range is between 5.7 to 28 PSI, which is sufficient for smooth operation.

• UF purifiers

Works well between 30 to 90 PSI, allowing water to pass through the ultrafiltration membrane and remove bacteria, viruses, and impurities.

• Gravity-Based Purifiers

It is ideal for low-pressure situations as these systems do not require any pressure and work completely on gravitational force.

Buying guide: Must-have features in a purifier for low pressure

Many homeowners tackle low water pressure issues which can make regular purifiers less effective. In that case, choosing the right purifier for low pressure conditions is important to ensure you get clean water to drink. Here are the features you should look for when buying a purifier suitable for low pressure:

1. Built-in booster pump 

This feature increases water pressure, ensuring effective filtration even with low incoming pressure.

2. Dual filtration

For areas with extremely low or no water pressure, consider models that combine ultraviolet and ultrafiltration technologies. 

3. Storage tank capacity

A large storage capacity will allow you to store more purified water, which is essential when the output is compromised due to low pressure.

4. Maintenance and support

Choose a low-pressure RO system that offers easy maintenance and good customer support. 

Which purifiers work best in low-pressure conditions?

If you live in an area with poor water flow, then having the right purifier for low-pressure conditions is crucial. Here are the best options to consider:

• RO Purifiers with Booster Pump
• UV/UF Purifiers
• Gravity-Based Purifiers

How to fix low-pressure issues in RO purifiers

If you are experiencing low pressures in your RO system, here is a checklist you can look for to fix them:

• Check the water supply, as sometimes the issue lies in the municipal line being blocked.
• Clean or replace the filters regularly, as clogged filters can reduce the pressure of water.
• If low pressure is a permanent issue, then consider installing a pressure booster to boost the flow of water.
• Check for leaks or blockages on pipes or connectors, as it can affect the pressure of water.

Conclusion 

Low water pressure should not be a barrier to getting you safe and clean drinking water. With the right purifier and proper maintenance, you can have water that is safe, tasty, and healthy for your family. 

If you are facing issues with a low pressure RO system or want to install a purifier, Aqua Drink is here to help. Based in Kanpur, we provide fast RO repair, installation, and maintenance services for all major brands. Our team can assess your water pressure and recommend the best system for your home.

Get in touch with us today to schedule a service to enhance your purifier’s performance and enjoy a steady supply of clean, safe drinking water. 

FAQs on low-pressure water filters

How can I tell if my RO system is affected by low pressure?

You can see signs that include a reduced output of purified water and a longer filling time for the storage tank.

How often should I service my RO system?

You should service your RO at least once a year, although filter replacement schedules may vary depending on water quality and usage.

Are there RO purifiers designed especially for low-pressure homes?

Yes, some ROs come with built-in booster pumps, which results in excellent performance even in areas with weak water supply.