RO systems use pressure to force water molecules through a membrane, causing contaminants to be left behind and separated from the water. These systems are very effective, especially for removal of heavy metals, nitrate, fluoride, and pesticides, but they are more expensive both in terms of equipment, maintenance costs, and water usage than other systems. They are also limited in their ability to produce water over a given period of time. This is the term that's used when minerals, usually calcium and magnesium are deposited over time in water-using equipment and appliances. Scaling has the potential to block tubing and pipes, interfere with proper operation, and reduces the overall life of equipment.
Many treatments exist to control or eliminate scale buildup in water-using equipment.
Softening Water softeners condition the water through an ion exchange process. In other words, a softener exchanges sodium ions for calcium and magnesium ions. They have been linked to a higher incidence of cancer. A filter with activated carbon rated for THM reduction is an effective treatment. Total Dissolved solids are not visible to the naked eye.