Table of Contents
To keep your reverse osmosis water purification system running smoothly, it is essential to clean your membrane regularly. If this membrane gets clogged with the particles that are filtered through the reverse osmosis process, then your system will not work correctly, and you won’t get the maximum flow from your reverse osmosis system.
How to Clean Your Reverse Osmosis Water System
How often you need to clean your system will vary depending on your water supply quality. We are going to share complete steps to clean your RO system. Also, regular cleaning may need to occur anywhere between every 3-12 months.
Cleaning the Membrane
To properly clean your reverse osmosis membrane, you first need to know what type of membrane you have. Household systems generally use either a membrane made from thin film or cellulose triacetate. You should consult your owner’s manual to determine the correct type of membrane. Cleaning involves removing the membrane and soaking it in a cleaning solution, so you will want to choose the solution best suited to your type of membrane.
Step 1
To clean the membrane, first shut off the water supply to your system. Consulting your owner’s manual, disconnect the housing that encases the membrane and removes the membrane completely. Place the membrane on a clean surface and inspect it to determine what type or types of materials you will need to clean from its surface.
Again, consult your owner’s manual for recommended cleaning products for your specific type of membrane. You will need to use specialized products for removing mineral scale, organic matter, grease, or mold and mildew. You may need to use more than one type of product to remove all of the material that has accumulated on your membrane.
Step 2
To clean your membrane, prepare a cleansing bath using one type of cleaner. Use a large and deep enough container that your membrane can sit fully submerged in the solution. Be sure to protect your eyes and skin when handling the membrane while using these cleaners. Follow the cleanser’s instructions regarding dilution. Allow the membrane to soak for at least one hour or for the time recommended for the specific cleaning product. Remove the membrane and rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear.
Step 3
Inspect the membrane to determine if an additional soak in another type of cleaner is necessary, and repeat the cleaning process to remove all particle from the membrane.
Step 4
Once the membrane is clean and fully rinsed, replace it back in the housing, and reattach your water supply lines. Turn the water back on, running it for at least 20 minutes to thoroughly flush your system.
Cleaning your reverse osmosis membrane is not a difficult task but a necessary one to keeping your reverse osmosis system working correctly. Read your owner’s manual thoroughly and always consult the manufacturer directly with any questions you may have about what products to use to clean your system. Keeping your system clean will ensure pure, clean water for a long time to come. Click here to learn more about water filters.