Point-of-Use Reverse Osmosis Systems | US EPA

01 Sep.,2025

 

Point-of-Use Reverse Osmosis Systems | US EPA

A point-of-use reverse osmosis (RO) system is a water filtration device that is connected to a single fixture (e.g., under the kitchen sink) and uses the process of RO to remove contaminants from the water supplied to that fixture. RO is the process by which pressure forces water through a semi-permeable membrane, creating a stream of treated water, called “permeate,” and a stream of reject water called “concentrate” or “brine.” These systems can potentially remove water contaminants such as lead, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), PFAS, arsenic, bacteria, and viruses. Point-of-use RO systems are typically installed in residential settings but can also be found in commercial office spaces or kitchens.

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On this Page

  • Treat With Efficiency
  • WaterSense Savings
  • Performance
  • Specification

Treat With Efficiency

While RO systems can improve water quality, these systems can also generate a significant amount of water waste to operate. For example, a typical point-of-use RO system will generate five gallons or more of reject water for every gallon of treated water produced. Some inefficient units will generate up to 10 gallons of reject water for every gallon of treated water produced. In contrast, point-of-use RO systems that earn the WaterSense label must demonstrate that they send just 2.3 gallons of water or less down the drain for every gallon of treated water they produce.

All products bearing the WaterSense label are independently certified to ensure they meet EPA criteria for efficiency and performance. The WaterSense specification for point-of-use RO systems ensures that labeled RO systems are just as effective at providing the high-quality treated water consumers expect from these products. For more information on RO systems, including how they work and how to select an RO system that is right for you, view this WaterSense report, Treating Water With Less Waste (pdf) .

While the water provided by public water suppliers in the United States is some of the safest in the world, there are times when consumers may want to employ additional treatment technology to ensure safety of well water or publicly-supplied water. Due to the water-intensive nature of RO, WaterSense does not intend to promote the installation of RO systems for all applications or encourage their use over other water treatment technologies that do not waste as much water (e.g., filtration systems). In some cases, other treatment methods that use little or no water, such as filtration, are sufficient to meet consumer treatment needs. For more information, read the WaterSense Guide to Selecting Water Treatment Systems (pdf).

WaterSense Savings

For consumers who are planning to replace their reverse osmosis system at the point of water use, selecting a WaterSense labeled model will reduce water use on average by more than 3,100 gallons of water per year compared to the water usage of a typical point-of-use RO system. This translates to a savings of 47,000 gallons over the lifetime of the system.

If all point-of-use RO systems sold in the United States were WaterSense labeled, we could save more than 3.1 billion gallons of water across the country annually, which is equivalent to the annual household water needs of nearly 41,000 American homes.

Read the  Point-of-Use Reverse Osmosis Systems fact sheet (pdf) for more information.

Performance

As part of the WaterSense specification development process, EPA examined key performance metrics to ensure consumer satisfaction. EPA also considered the impact of reducing water waste on RO system performance.

All WaterSense labeled point-of-use RO systems are independently certified to meet performance criteria to ensure user satisfaction and health and safety. Performance criteria address the following areas:

  • Membrane Life: Ensures the RO membrane will last at least one year before requiring replacement.
  • Total Dissolved Solids Reduction: Ensures a system meets a baseline contaminant reduction level for total dissolved solids.
  • Contaminant Reduction: Ensures a system is tested and certified to remove any additional contaminants the manufacturer claims it can remove.

See the Performance Overview for more information on how WaterSense assessed performance when developing the specification.

  • WaterSense Performance Overview: Ensuring Products Perform (pdf) (178.51 KB, April )  
  • WaterSense Performance Overview: Point-of-Use Reverse Osmosis Systems (pdf)

Specification

In November , EPA released the WaterSense Specification for Point-of-Use Reverse Osmosis Systems.

  • WaterSense Specification for Point-of-Use Reverse Osmosis Systems (pdf)
  • WaterSense Specification for Point-of-Use Reverse Osmosis Systems Supporting Statement (pdf)

EPA hosted a meeting for manufacturers to discuss the final specification and process for earning the WaterSense label for RO systems on December 17, .  The presentation and recording are available below.

  • RO Systems Final Specification Public Meeting Presentation (pdf)
  • View webinar recording

For more information about the specification development process for point-of-use RO systems, including the draft specification, public response to the draft specification, and EPA’s response to public comments, please visit the Specification for Point-of-Use Reverse Osmosis Systems Background Materials Page.

Does Your Business Need a Commercial Reverse Osmosis System?

Water quality is a crucial factor for many businesses, impacting everything from product quality to equipment longevity and overall operational efficiency. One solution that has gained significant attention is the commercial reverse osmosis (RO) system. But does your business need one?

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In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits, applications, and considerations to help you decide if a commercial RO system is right for your business.

How Does Reverse Osmosis Work?

Using a semi-permeable membrane, reverse osmosis systems filter out contaminants such as bacteria, viruses, and other molecules. The end result is high-purity water that can be used for a variety of purposes. Most commonly, however, RO systems are used to purify drinking water.

5 Key Benefits of a Commercial Reverse Osmosis System

1. High-Quality Water

Commercial reverse osmosis systems provide high-quality water by removing up to 99% of contaminants. This is particularly important for businesses that rely on pure water for their operations. These include food and beverage manufacturers, pharmaceutical companies, and businesses engaged in electronics production.

2. Cost Savings

The initial investment in a commercial reverse osmosis system can be substantial. However, the long-term cost savings are significant and the benefits typically outweigh any disadvantages. By providing pure water, these systems reduce the need for expensive bottled water. They also lower the repair, maintenance, and replacement costs associated with machinery damaged by scaling or corrosion.

3. Improved Product Quality

For many businesses, water quality directly affects the quality of the goods or products they produce. This is especially true for food, beverage, electronics, and pharmaceutical industries. Using RO water for everyday processes guarantees that the products produced are contaminant-free.

4. Environmental Benefits

By producing high-quality water on-site, businesses that use a commercial reverse osmosis system can reduce their reliance on bottled water. This helps to decrease plastic waste as well as the carbon footprint associated with its transportation and disposal.

5. Enhanced Equipment Longevity

Commercial reverse osmosis systems remove minerals and other contaminants that could accumulate inside equipment. Without mineral buildup that could cause scaling, corrosion, and breakdowns, equipment often lasts longer and requires fewer repairs. This can help companies save a significant amount of money in terms of machinery repairs, maintenance, and replacement.

Common Applications of Commercial Reverse Osmosis Systems

1. Food and Beverage Industry

In the food and beverage industry, water purity is crucial for maintaining product taste and safety. RO systems ensure that the water used in production processes is free from contaminants.

2. Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals

Pharmaceutical manufacturing and healthcare facilities require ultra-pure water to prevent contamination in medications and laboratory procedures. Commercial reverse osmosis systems meet these stringent water quality standards.

3. Electronics Manufacturing

Electronics manufacturing requires high-purity water for rinsing and cleaning components. RO water prevents mineral deposits that could affect the performance of electronic devices.

4. Hospitality Industries and Restaurants

Restaurants, hotels, and cafes benefit from RO systems by improving the taste of water and beverages, ensuring the quality of ice, and enhancing the longevity of kitchen equipment.

What Should Your Business Consider Before Installing a Commercial Reverse Osmosis System?

As you work through the decision making process, there are some important things for your business to consider:

Initial Cost: Commercial reverse osmosis systems involve an initial investment for purchase and installation. However, the long-term savings and benefits often justify this expense.

Maintenance Requirements: Just like any other appliance or piece of equipment, routine maintenance is essential for the efficiency and performance of a reverse osmosis system. Some maintenance procedures may be completed by in-house staff members but others may require the expertise of a water treatment professional.

Water Waste: Commercial reverse osmosis systems produce some wastewater. It’s important to consider how this will be managed and whether it can be reused or recycled within your facility. This is especially important in areas like California where water usage is often heavily regulated and restricted.

Water Pressure and Quality: RO systems require adequate water pressure and pre-treatment if the incoming water has high levels of certain contaminants. A water quality test is essential. This will help you gain a greater understanding of your water’s current condition and the amount of contaminants that will need to be removed.

Affordable and Effective Commercial RO Systems in Anaheim, CA

A commercial reverse osmosis system can be a valuable asset for businesses that prioritize water quality. From improving product quality to enhancing equipment longevity and achieving cost savings, the benefits are substantial. However, it’s important to weigh the initial investment, maintenance requirements, and water waste management before making a decision.

At Pacific Coast Water Systems, we know how important a reliable source of quality water is for many businesses. That’s why we have experienced technicians on staff who can install and maintain your RO system as well as provide 24-hr emergency service. In addition, our commercial water treatment options go beyond reverse osmosis systems. We also offer water softeners, portable exchange tank service, and drinking water coolers to businesses in Anaheim, Placentia, Yorba Linda, Villa Park, and surrounding areas.

Contact us today to find the best water treatment solution for YOUR business!

For more commercial reverse osmosis systemsinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.