Below are answers to common questions about the Premier Series Reverse Osmosis drinking water systems, including filtration stages, performance, pH levels, and system specifications.
Filtration Overview
What does RO stand for?
RO stands for Reverse Osmosis. Reverse osmosis is a water filtration process that uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove dissolved solids, contaminants, and impurities from water. By applying pressure, water is forced through the membrane, leaving unwanted substances behind and producing purified drinking water.
What is an RO filtration system?
An RO filtration system is a water purification system that uses a semi-permeable membrane along with additional filters to reduce contaminants from water.
In the Premier Series Reverse Osmosis system, water moves through multiple filtration stages to reduce sediment, chlorine, dissolved solids, and other unwanted contaminants before reaching the dedicated drinking water faucet.
How many stages does the Premier Series RO system have?
The Premier Series Reverse Osmosis system features four stages of filtration:
- Sediment Filter: Removes particles and sediment.
- Carbon Filter: Reduces chlorine and chemicals.
- RO Membrane: Reduces up to 99.99% of total dissolved solids (TDS), microscopic impurities, and other unwanted contaminants.
- Post-Carbon Filter: Helps refine taste.
Select Premier Advanced Series models use an alkaline remineralizing filter in the fourth stage instead of a standard post-carbon filter. This filter adds minerals back into the water.
Installation Questions
Can I connect the reverse osmosis system to hot water?
No. The Premier Series Reverse Osmosis system must be connected to a cold-water supply only. Connecting to hot water can damage internal components and reduce system performance.
Where can the reverse osmosis system be installed?
The system is most commonly installed underneath the kitchen sink. For alternative installation setups, consult a plumber to ensure the system operates properly and meets plumbing requirements.
- RO Base Unit: 14” (L) x 5” (W) x 15” (H)
- Storage Tank: 12” (L) x 12” (W) x 15” (H)
Wherever the system is installed, always ensure adequate clearance under the sink for both the filtration unit and the tank before installation.
Can the system be connected to a refrigerator or ice maker?
Yes, the system can be connected to a refrigerator or ice maker. For balanced output and easier installation, an Extra Output Kit is recommended.
Performance & Terminology
What does TDS stand for?
TDS stands for Total Dissolved Solids, which refers to the combined content of all dissolved substances in water.
How much TDS is the RO system rated to remove?
The system is rated to treat water with TDS levels between 200–300 TDS.
For every 1 gallon of purified water, how much water is discharged?
The Premier Series Reverse Osmosis system features a low drain ratio of 1.5:1. This means the system produces approximately 1.5 gallons of purified drinking water for every 1 gallon of water sent to drain.
What does GPD stand for?
GPD stands for Gallons Per Day. This refers to how much purified water the system can produce in a day under proper operating conditions.
How many GPD does the Premier Series offer?
The Premier Series Reverse Osmosis system is available in 75 GPD and 100 GPD models.
Water Quality & pH
What is the pH level of RO water?
RO water typically has a pH between 5–7. Because the filtration process removes dissolved minerals, the water can be slightly more acidic than untreated tap water.
What is the pH level of RO water when an alkaline filter is included in the RO system?
With alkaline remineralization filters, the pH generally increases to between 7.5–10. Remineralization adds minerals back into purified water while maintaining high-quality filtration.
Are pH and alkalinity the same?
No. pH measures how acidic or basic the water is at a given moment. Alkalinity refers to the minerals in the water that help stabilize pH levels.
In simple terms, pH tells you where the water sits on the acidic/base scale, while alkalinity helps determine how stable that pH level is.