RO water purifier myths busted: What you need to know before you buy
Reverse Osmosis, or RO, has become a household name when it comes to water purification. Yet, with its popularity have come many misconceptions, from claims of excessive wastage to concerns about removing too many minerals. Before you decide which RO water purifier suits your home, it’s important to separate myth from fact.
Myth 1: RO purifiers remove all minerals and make water unhealthy
This is one of the most common misunderstandings about RO. While it’s true that RO membranes remove dissolved solids, including excess salts and impurities, modern systems are designed to retain or add back essential minerals.
Many RO water purifiers now feature mineral enrichment technology, which reintroduces calcium and magnesium after purification. These minerals are vital for bone health, muscle function, and metabolism. So, rather than stripping your water bare, today’s advanced RO systems balance purity with nutrition.
Myth 2: RO wastes too much water
Early RO systems did have higher reject ratios, but recent innovations have drastically improved efficiency. This means for every litre of purified water produced, only a fraction is rejected, making the new generation of RO water purifiers both effective and environmentally responsible. Many brands, including Pureit, now focus on eco-friendly designs that minimise waste without compromising safety.
Myth 3: Boiling water is just as good as RO purification
Boiling can kill most bacteria and viruses, but it doesn’t remove dissolved chemicals, pesticides, or heavy metals. RO purification, on the other hand, filters out these invisible toxins, including lead, arsenic, and chromium, ensuring comprehensive protection.
Myth 4: RO water has no health benefits
Clean water is fundamental to every function in your body, from nutrient absorption to immunity. By removing harmful contaminants and maintaining safe mineral levels, RO-purified water supports overall health in tangible ways:
- Reduces risk of waterborne illnesses.
- Supports digestion and metabolism.
- Enhances hydration and skin health.
- Prevents toxin buildup that can stress the liver and kidneys.
So, while the purifier itself isn’t a medicine, it delivers the foundation for better everyday health.
Myth 5: All RO purifiers work the same way
Not all systems are created equal. The effectiveness of an RO water purifier depends on the quality of its membrane, filtration stages, and supporting technologies.
Always look for models tested and certified by recognised bodies to ensure you’re investing in quality, not just convenience.
When does your home truly need an RO purifier?
An RO system is ideal if your water source has high Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), usually above 300 ppm, or if you depend on borewell or tanker water. RO membranes effectively reduce these levels, making the water cleaner, lighter, and better-tasting.
For municipal or low-TDS water, a UV or UF system may suffice. The key is to test your source water before choosing, so the purification method fits your actual need.
The RO water purifier has come a long way from its early reputation. With advanced filtration, mineral balancing, and eco-recovery features, it offers one of the safest and most sustainable ways to secure your family’s drinking water. When you look beyond the myths and focus on tested technology, you’ll see that RO isn’t just a filter, it’s a daily investment in long-term health and peace of mind.
