.: Aqua Excel RO :.

Frequently Asked Questions
This page answers many of the common questions about the Aqua Excell Water Maker in general. If you have any questions not addressed here, feel free to contact us.

Q : What is RO Water Maker?

RO Water Maker is a purifier system that uses the principle of reverse osmosis to remove 95-99% of all the mineral and chemical contaminants from raw tap water. R.O. gives you the quality of water with the convenience of a faucet mounted on your kitchen sink.

Q : How does Reverse Osmosis differ from a Water Filter?

Ordinary water filters use screen only particles of dirt sediment from water. Reverse osmosis employs a semi-permeable membrane that removes not only particles but also an extremely high percentage of dissolved contaminants-molecule by molecule from raw tap water. Ordinary filters remove only insoluble impurities also removes soluble impurities like salts, hardness a heavy metals.

Q : What is RO membrane and how does it work?

The membrane consists of several thin layers or sheets of film that are bonded together and rolled in a spiral configuration around a plastic tube. (This is also known as a thin film composite or TFC membrane) The material of the membrane is semi-permeable with .0001 micron pores. It allows water molecules pass through while acting as a barrier to dissolved solids (i.e.: mineral chemical contaminants). When the feed water stream passes across the surface of the membrane, the molecules penetrate the membrane surface, working their way around the spiral and collecting in the center tube. The remaining contaminants are concentrated and washed from the surface of the membrane down the drain.

Q : Can you explain Osmosis?

Assume a membrane is a semi-permeable, allowing water to pass through while being closed to dissolved salts. Place a membrane between two compartments in a container. Then a place a salt solution in one half of the container and pure water in the other half. Now a fundamental scientific principle comes into play. That is, two different concentrations of liquids within the same system will try to reach equilibrium (i.e. the same concentration of contaminants) on both sides of the membrane. Of course the only way for this to happen is for pure water to pass through the membrane to salt water side in an attempt to reach equilibrium is called OSMOSIS.

Q : What is the purification process of the R.O Water Maker?

The raw tap water first flows through a 5 micron particle FILTER [1] to remove dirt, rust and other sediment. The water then flows into a carbon briquette cartridge FILTER [2] which takes out 98% of the chlorine and organic chemicals. The next stage of the process is FILTER [3] the Block carbon filter to filter multi-chemical compounds and suspension. [4] The reverse osmosis membrane (TFC) which will separate 95-99% of the dissolved contaminants from the water molecules. The contaminants are then washed down the drain. The next stage of the RO series process is the small CARBON FILTER removes the remaining traces of chemicals, tastes and odors. The R.O. water is stored in a 17 Litre TANK. Inside the tank is a balloon-like rubber diaphragm, pre-changed with 14 psi of air. As the tank fills, the air pressure increases and pushes the water out when the faucet is opened.

Q : How did Reverse Osmosis get its start?

Although the idea of reversing osmosis has been known for every 10 years, the practical application is a recent development. In 1962 the U.S Government funded the first R.O. plant which processed 1000 gallons clean water per day. Today, there are more than 3000 large R.O. treatment plants, each producing more than a million gallons of drinking water each day. In 1991, the U.S. Army bought 8,000 large membranes to their mobile water purification units for troops in Desert Storm. In 1993, the U.S. Government bought another 6,300 large membranes to purify flood water in the Midwest.

Q : Will R.O. remove Sodium from the water?

YES! Reverse Osmosis was originally designed to make sea water drinkable for the navy. It is ideal for everyone on a low sodium diet.

Q : Does R.O remove Bacteria? Cryptosporidium?

YES! An R.O. membrane has a pore size much smaller than bacteria virus, pyrogen or the cryptosporidium parasite. When functioning properly it will remove all micro organisms from tap water and produce sterile water.

Q : What does the RO Water Maker's drinking water tastes like?

The Taste of RO water depends on the amount of contaminants in the water originally. If 95% of dissolved minerals and chemicals are removed, the R.O. water may taste like bottled water (low minerals), or natural spring water (moderate mineral content.)

Q : Where is the RO Water Maker installed?

Depending upon the model you choose the RO water makers can be installed on wall i.e. wall mounted and also under the counter.

Q : How much water does the RO Water Maker produce?

Under ideal conditions, the membrane is rated at 15 litres per hour of water production. This is a lot of water for the average household's drinking and cooking requirements.

Q : What is the guarantee on the RO Water Maker?

The RO System (excluding filters) is guaranteed for 1 year for material and workmanship. All defective parts will be replaced free within the first year. The membrane has a one year pro-rated guarantee.

Q : What is the maintenance schedule for the Ro Water maker?

The three pre-filter cartridges should be changed every 6 months. The first is a 5 micron sediment cartridge. The second is a Carbon Cartridge. The third is an Executed carbon filter. Failure to change the cartridge every 6 months may allow chlorine to destroy the membrane. Depending upon the water it is treating, the Thin Film Composite membrane has a life expectancy of 3 to 10 years. The post filter should be changed when the membrane needs changing.

Q : When should the membrane be changed?

One indication is a gradual reduction is water production caused by a layering of minerals and salts on the membrane surface. Another is gradual deterioration in the quality of water being produced. You my notice a different taste or whiter scrum on the inside of a pan of water you are boiling. This might mean the R.O. membrane is disintegrating and requires replacement.

Q : What contaminants does Reverse Osmosis Remove?

The RO Water contains a quality carbon which will remove more than 98% of organic chemicals from the water. These include THMs (chloroform), DBCP, lindane. TCE (trichloroethylene), PCEs (tetrachloroethylene), carbon tetrachloride chlorine.

Q : How effective is Aqua Excell reverse osmosis for improving water quality?

RO is very effective in reducing a range of home water contaminants. This is possible because the reverse osmosis membrane is comprised of microscopic pores which allow the pressurized water molecules, among the smallest molecules known to man, to pass through contaminants, and even dissolved ions are left behind. Additionally, RO systems always include a sediment pre-filter that traps fine suspended materials that permanently clog the membrane. RO systems also include a carbon pre-filter to remove chlorine, along with other contaminants that may damage RO membranes and affect that taste, color, and odor of the water.

Reverse osmosis is a low-energy process, useful for substantially reducing the complete dissolved mineral content of water. the process is practical in sizes ranging from a few gallons to million of gallons per day.

Q : Who should consider purchasing a Aqua Excell reverse osmosis system?

Anyone concerned about the quality of their home drinking water -- particularly if they notice taste or odor problems or are aware of high levels of dissolves minerals in their water supply -- should consider an RO system. Additionally, RO systems often are recommended for immune-comprised individuals who could be especially susceptible to infection from various waterborne contaminants. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends reverse osmosis as a method for removal of a dangerous microorganism cyst called Cryptosporidium. Reverse osmosis systems, which generally include both and RO membrane and pre- and post-filters, offer a comprehensive means of eliminating more than 90 percent of potentially harmful contaminants in home drinking water.

Q : Specifically, which contaminants does a Aqua Excell reverse osmosis system remove?

A reverse osmosis system can treat for a variety of contaminants including: Aluminum, Arsenic, Asbestos, Atrazine, Benzene, Chlorides, Chlorine, Copper, Cryptosporidium, Cyanide, Fluoride, Giardia, Lead, Mercury, Nitrates, Radium, Radon, Silver, Sodium, Sulfide, Trichloroethylene, and Total Trihalomethanes.

Q : Beyond reducing health-related contaminants what are some other benefits of installing a Aqua Excell reverse osmosis water system?

There are many benefits to installing a reverse osmosis system beyond greatly reduced concentrations of contaminants. Cleaner, sparkling drinking water is probably the most noticeable. Because there is little to alter the RO-treated water's natural state, the flavor of food can come though without any "chemical" taste. Brewed items such as coffee, tea, or soups may have a richer, more robust flavor, and fruit juices and powdered drinks mixed with RO-treated water may taste better, too. Even ice cubes can take on a crystal clear appearance. Additionally, because of its low mineral content, using RO-purified water in household appliances such as steam irons and humidifiers can keep them working longer and more efficiently

Q : What is R.O. membrane and how does it work?

Q: How do I properly maintain my Aqua Excell reverse osmosis system?

The filters of your RO system should be changed periodically. In general, both the re- and post-filters should be replaces about every Six –twelve months, however, the maintenance schedules may vary due to local water conditions, the quality of water being filtered, and the manufacturer's recommendations. The reverse osmosis membrane normally lasts between 3 to 5 years. WQA suggests you closely follow the maintenance schedule provided by your water treatment specialist of the manufacturer to ensure that the system is in proper working order.

Q: How do I select the right home water treatment system for my needs?

In order to select the product that best meets your needs, begin by having your water tested to determine its quality and which contaminants my be present. If you are concerned about health-related contaminants, you local department of health can recommend state-certified laboratories to test you water. If you are concerned about aesthetic contaminants (affecting the taste, smell or odor of your water), contact us for a FREE water analysis.

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