Microplastics have emerged as a major pollutant of the seas, foods, and potentially, the drinking water. The problem of how to deal with these dangerous particles becomes even more relevant today. Even though boiling water may seem as a solution enough for the problem, using reverse osmosis (RO) is even better. This blog aims at understanding how reverse osmosis filters microplastics, and also learns how it differs from boiling water and why it is preferable to make an RO system purchase for your home.
Boiling Water: A Simple Yet Effective Method
Water boiling has for many years been considered as one of the easiest and most effective methods of water purification. This age old method which has been passed down through the generations and is very simple has been used to provide safe drinking water across different cultures. New research has also shown that it is effective in dealing with current day pollution issues including micro plastics. Boiling of tap water for at least five minutes helps in removing up to 90% of microplastics. The heat expands some of the plastic particles and makes others to sink at the bottom of the water thus lowering the chances of ingesting them.
There are more reasons why boiling water is effective and straightforward than just that. It is a cheap method that does not involve the use of expensive filters or machines. In the context of households that do not have access to filtration systems, boiling water is a simple way of ensuring water quality improvement. Furthermore, boiling kills bacteria, viruses and other pathogens making it a useful technique in dealing with biological hazards.
However, there are some flaws in boiling water and one of the biggest is that it is not very practical for regular use. The method entails boiling water and therefore takes time and energy, since water has to be heated to its boiling point. Once boiled, the water has to cool down to a drinkable temperature which also takes time. This can be quite frustrating, especially where large families are involved or where one needs water at any given time.
Also, the problem of water is not solved by boiling it. First of all, it eliminates microplastics and biological contaminants as stated earlier, but it fails to get rid of other dangerous substances like heavy metals, pesticides or chemicals. In fact, boiling water also leads to the removal of some contaminants such as lead or nitrates, as water evaporates hence concentrating the remaining contaminants. Moreover, boiling water does not go a long way in changing the taste, color or the smell of water, which may be an issue of concern when it comes to drinking water.
In conclusion, it can be stated that boiling water is still an effective and convenient method for the initial water treatment to ensure its purity, although it is insufficient for the detailed and stable output that is provided by the contemporary water filtration systems, including reverse osmosis. With the increasing complexity of the issues regarding the environment, it can be argued that boiling water may no longer be enough to render water safe and of high quality for drinking.
Does Reverse Osmosis Remove Microplastics?
Reverse osmosis (RO) is one of the most advanced techniques used in modern water treatment to deal with microplastics and a wide range of other pollutants. The RO process is based on applying pressure to water so that it crosses through a membrane which does not allow elements larger than 0.0001 microns. Since the microplastics are usually greater than 5 microns, this system will eliminate all of them.
Besides microplastics, reverse osmosis systems can also get rid of other contaminants such as heavy metals, bacteria, and chemical pollutants. The RO process of filtration is very thorough and therefore it recommended for homes that want 100% safe drinking water.
Benefits of Reverse Osmosis for Microplastic Removal
- Exceptional Filation:The RO systems filter out not only microplastics but also other harmful particles thus enhancing the water quality.
- Convenience:While boiling is a constant process, RO systems are always on, which provides purified water whenever needed.
- Eco-Friendly:For instance, some of the highly developed systems such as the Frizzlife water filter, has a high water efficiency, hence reducing water usage.
Why Choose Reverse Osmosis Over Boiling Water?
Heating water to its boiling point is perhaps one of the most commonly used methods in the purification of water and though it is basic and effective, it is not without its flaws. To this end, RO provides a better and more effective water purification system. This is why most households should prefer reverse osmosis than boiling water:
Ease of Use:
Boiling water is not an easy task; it involves time, effort and patience. To purify water by boiling, you have to bring the water to its boiling point and that is not an instant process. When the water reaches its boiling point, you also have to give it some time to cool down before you can use it, which can be quite tedious if you are in a hurry and need water.
On the other hand, modern reverse osmosis (RO) systems such as Frizzlife water filters are very easy to use. After installation, these systems offer filtered water every time you press a button. This makes RO water purification system to be efficient, since one can get purified water anytime they want without having to wait for the water to boil or cool. There is no need to check the temperature of the water or to over boil and waste energy.
Water Quality:
Boiling water is efficient in getting rid of certain substances (bacteria and some microplastics, for instance), but it cannot get rid of others. For instance, boiling water does not get rid of heavy metals, chemicals, and chlorine. In fact, boiling water makes water contain even more of these pollutants as they remain in the water and when water evaporates. Furthermore, reheating can also go a long way in disintegrating bigger plastic particles, but it does not necessarily help in filtering out the existing microplastics in water, nor does it enhance the taste or quality of the water to any great extent.
On the other hand, reverse osmosis is a complete filtration process, which not only filters out bacteria and viruses, but also other contaminants as well. The RO system has a semi-permeable membrane, which filters particles as small as 0.0001 microns and thus removes microplastics, heavy metals such as lead and mercury and chemical contaminants thus providing safe water. The Frizzlife water filters not only filters out microplastics but also chlorine, sediments and other dissolved solids which may change the taste, safety and quality of water.
Also, reverse osmosis systems take out contaminants that boiling cannot get rid of, thus enhancing the quality of water in taste and color.
Economic Value:
It looks like boiling water is quite cheap at the beginning, but it is not as cheap as it seems. Boiling water is a process that needs energy and the costs can accumulate, depending on how often and how much water you boil. Also, boiling water does not address all contamination concerns, which is why at times you may require bottled water for a higher level of purification or for confidence. Thus, it can also add up to the expenses in the long run.
On the other hand, using an RO system is cost effective in the long run. Although RO systems are expensive to set up and purchase, as compared to the boiling water method, the benefits that one is likely to get in the future will be quite impressive. One of the advantages of RO systems is that after installation, they do not use energy to boil water. They give purified water as output and thus eliminate the need of buying bottled water, which is costly and adverse to the environment. In the long run, RO systems are not only economical but also help in minimizing the harm to the environment.
Consistency and Reliability:
Boiling water is a temporary solution, but it is not as consistent as reverse osmosis. The boiling process is subjective, relying on human intervention to ensure the water is boiled long enough. However, boiling cannot be used to get rid of all kinds of pollutants, including heavy metals that boiling will not remove either.
On the other hand, reverse osmosis systems are capable of delivering purified water on a consistent basis. RO systems are also self-regulating, hence one cannot have poor quality water at some point and good at the other. They filter all the incoming water through a very effective multi-stage filtration system so that each drop of water is clean.
Environmental Impact:
Boiling water is not without its costs, as it requires energy. And if your energy source is an issue then it can also increase your carbon footprint. If you are boiling water using a stove top or an electric kettle, then it is consuming resources which could have been avoided. Also, since boiling does not purify water completely, then you may require bottled water, which means more plastic waste. The effects of plastic do not stop with the production and transportation of bottled water, but extend to disposal as well.
On the other hand, reverse osmosis systems can help you minimize the use of plastics. This means that when you have an RO system, you do not need to buy bottled water. Hence reducing the amount of plastic that gets into the landfills as well as the resources used to produce and transport bottled water. The long term costs and advantages of using RO systems are enough to encourage people to start using them.
Health Benefits:
Boiling water is one of the most effective ways of getting rid of bacteria and pathogens but it cannot eliminate chemicals, metals or plastics. Eventually, exposure to these substances will result to adverse effects such as heavy metal poisoning, organ malfunction or developmental problems in children. Boiling water also doesn’t get rid of dissolved chemicals or pollutants that may be harmful to you in the long run. In the same way, reverse osmosis systems provide health benefits that go beyond the filtering of pathogens. RO systems filter out heavy metals including lead, mercury and arsenic, pesticides, pharmaceuticals and other toxins like chlorine which makes water safe for drinking. This is because reverse osmosis also filters microplastics in water thus lowering your risk of being exposed to these particles in the long run.
How to Choose the Right Reverse Osmosis System
To choose the right RO system for removal of microplastics, the following factors must be put into consideration; Filtration Capacity: Select a system that has a high capacity of filtration which can filter out microplastics, metals and bacteria among other contaminants. System Quality: Go for systems which have high quality membranes and filters that have the capacity of removing microplastics and other hazardous materials. Maintenance and Filter Replacement: Select a system that is fairly simple to clean and maintain and which has filters that can be changed. This will help in maintaining the efficiency of the system at all times. Cost: Although, these systems may be costly but they are worth the money as they are durable and serve the purpose of providing healthy water to the users, eliminates the need to buy bottled water and as such reduce cost in the long run. Water Recovery Rate: Compare the systems’ water recovery rates to understand how much water will be saved and thus cut down on water bills. Flow Rate: If you have a lot of water consumption, select a system with cater adequate for flow the rate needs to of your home. Certifications and Warranty: Make sure the system has been approved by renowned organizations such as the NSF and comes with a good warranty to give the user confidence. Thus, by analyzing the above mentioned factors, it will be possible to choose the most effective RO system for use in the house so as to obtain purified water that does not contain microplastics.
Recommended Reverse Osmosis Systems
PD800-TAM4
- Advanced Filtration:Filter out up to 99. 99% of contaminants such as microplastics, heavy metals, chlorine and balance the water pH to more than 7. 5.
- Water Efficiency: Comes with a low drain ratio of 2: 1, this system can conserve water, as much as eight times more than conventional systems.
- High Capacity:This system can produce 800 gallons of filtered water per day and can fill an 8oz cup in 7 seconds.
- Smart Monitoring: Comes with TDS real time measurement, filter status indicator and a simple twist function to change filters.
- Tankless Design:Avoids contamination, reduces 70% under sink space, and is ideal for DIY installation.
PX500-A
- Superior Filtration:Filters out 99. 99% of fluoride, lead and limescale while also adding minerals to make water alkaline.
- Tankless Efficiency:Under the sink it can free up to 60% space, does not contaminate water twice and is suitable for connection to a refrigerator.
- Quick Installation:The design that is integrated makes use of fewer connectors hence making it easier to install the system without leaks.
- Quick Maintenance:Change indicators show when the filters need replacement and this can be done in a matter of seconds.
- Eco-Friendly:It also features a 1. 5: 1 low drain ratio which means it conserves over 450% of water.
Both systems provide clean, mineral water effectively, thus providing a healthier and more environmental-friendly water system for your home.
Conclusion
In the fight against microplastics, reverse osmosis has to be the winner, as it offers the best filtration and is very convenient. While boiling water has its uses, RO systems are the perfect solution as they not only get rid of microplastics but also heavy metals, chemicals and bacteria. More advanced systems such as the Frizzlife PD800-TAM4 and PX500-A not only filter water but also do so in an environmentally friendly, economical, and instant manner. Selecting reverse osmosis will also help you and your family get clean, healthy and safe drinking water which is also taste better as you seek to reduce your impact on the environment.
FAQ
1. Can boiling water completely remove microplastics?
Boiling water can reduce microplastic levels by about 90%, but it cannot eliminate all microplastics or other dangerous substances such as heavy metals or chemicals.
2. How does reverse osmosis compare to boiling water for microplastic removal?
Reverse osmosis is much more effective as it filters 99.99% of microplastics and other particles through a semi-permeable membrane while boiling water only partly filters out contaminants.
3. Is reverse osmosis water safe for drinking?
Yes, reverse osmosis water is safe to drink as it is filtered through a reverse osmosis system that can filter out microplastics, heavy metals, and other organisms.
4. Are reverse osmosis systems expensive to maintain?
It is relatively cheap and requires filter change every now and then. It is cheap as it does not require constant filter replacement and the benefits that are accrued from drinking filtered water and the savings from not buying bottled water are worthwhile.
5. Does reverse osmosis waste a lot of water?
Modern RO systems, for instance, Frizzlife, have low drain ratios hence reducing water usage in comparison with the previous systems.