What Is a Reverse Osmosis System and What Does It Remove?

The Tech Water Purification Experts Don’t Want You to Know About

💧 What Is Reverse Osmosis (RO)?

Reverse osmosis is a water filtration process that uses pressure to force water molecules through a semi-permeable membrane. This membrane allows only pure water molecules to pass through, while blocking and flushing away contaminants.

Think of it as a high-tech sieve that separates the bad stuff from the good stuff—down to the molecular level.

⚙️ How Does Reverse Osmosis Work? (Step-by-Step)

A high-quality RO system (like the ones we install) typically has 6 to 7 stages:

• Sediment Pre-Filter
  Removes larger particles like rust, sand, and dirt.
• Carbon Block Filter
  Eliminates chlorine, chloramine, VOCs, and improves taste/smell.
• Granular Activated Carbon (GAC)
  Targets chemical contaminants and protects the RO membrane.
• RO Membrane
  The heart of the system—removes 95–99% of dissolved solids, heavy metals, and harmful contaminants.
• Post Carbon Filter
  Polishes the water for a cleaner taste.
• (Recommended) Remineralization Filter
  Adds back essential minerals like calcium and magnesium for taste and balance.
• (Optional) UV Sterilization
  Kills bacteria and viruses—ideal for homes on well water or with compromised plumbing.

What Contaminants Does RO Remove?

Reverse osmosis removes an extensive list of contaminants, including:

• Lead
• Arsenic
• Fluoride
• Chlorine & Chloramine
• PFAS (forever chemicals)
• Microplastics
• Nitrates/Nitrites
• Heavy metals (e.g. mercury, cadmium)
• Pesticides & Herbicides
• Pharmaceutical residues
• Total dissolved solids (TDS)

In short: if you want pure drinking water that’s free from invisible threats, RO is your answer.

Is Reverse Osmosis Water Good for You?

There’s a myth floating around that RO water is “too pure” and therefore not healthy. Let’s clear that up:

➡️ Yes, RO strips out most minerals
➡️ But most of those minerals are inorganic (and poorly absorbed by the body anyway)

Health-conscious homeowners often opt for RO systems with a remineralization stage—which adds healthy minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium back into the water for taste and balance.

So yes, RO water with remineralization is not only good for you—it’s often cleaner and more refreshing than bottled water.

✅ Pros and Cons of Reverse Osmosis

Pros:

✔ Removes up to 99% of contaminants
✔ Great for health-conscious families, kids, and pets
✔ Improves taste, smell, and clarity of drinking water
✔ Replaces bottled water (eco-friendly + cost-saving)
✔ Pairs well with home filtration systems

Cons:

⚠ Wastes some water during filtration (1:1 to 3:1 depending on model)
⚠ Requires occasional maintenance (filter/membrane changes)

Our Top Pick: Alkaline 6-Stage RO with Mineral Filter

At Quinn Water Systems, we recommend the 6-Stage Alkaline Reverse Osmosis System for most Ontario homes:

🔹 Removes 95–99% of contaminants
🔹 Includes mineral filter for better taste & health
🔹 Compact design fits under the sink
🔹 Optional UV light for added bacteria protection
🔹 Affordable, efficient, and professionally installed

Whether you're in Toronto, Vaughan, Richmond Hill, or Simcoe County, this system is perfect for homes on city water or well water with high TDS.

📞 Want to Know What’s in Your Water?

Before you decide on a system, let’s test your tap water.
We offer free in-home water testing with no pressure, no obligation—just honest results. * Conditions apply

🎯 Book your FREE test today