How do reverse osmosis systems work? Reverse osmosis removes molecules and ions by applying pressure to water on one side of the filter and keeping the hard elements of the water, such as copper and lead, on the top side of the filter, while letting other smaller elements such as H2O through the barrier.

Osmosis is a natural process of molecules moving from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration. Think of it as a bunch of people packed into a night club...a fire breaks out...the fire doors open and the people automatically move from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration. Reverse osmosis is the opposite of this effect, through applying pressure on water, the molecules move from a higher concentration to a lower concentration, thus "reverse" osmosis.

Options in Filtering Technology

You have many options in filtering technology which can all work together. There are ultra violet lights, which remove bacteria but do not remove chloride or fluoride. You can buy distilled water at the store or use a distillation pitcher that removes fluoride, mercury, lead and bacteria. However, this process strips water of natural mineral elements which are good for the body. Carbon filters, another option, remove chlorine, but need to be changed fairly often. Last but not least, there is reverse osmosis which has the benefit of removing sodium, lead and copper, which can leak into the water through pipes. A combination of these types of water filtration is often best.