Many of us enjoy drinking bottled water because it assures us that it is clean, purified, and free from harmful contaminants. However, drinking exclusively bottled water comes at a price. With a recommended intake of around two litres of water per day, this means going through four 500ml bottles of water. Not only does this result in a high quantity of single-use plastic, but it is a significant expense that adds up over time.

To avoid purchasing bottled water multiple times a day, investing in a home water purifier is essential. Reverse osmosis systems are a popular water filter system that offers a long-term solution to home water purification.

In this article, we will explore countertop reverse osmosis systems, compare them to traditional reverse osmosis models, and help readers choose the best solution for their needs.

The Importance of Reverse Osmosis Water Filter Systems

Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems are the most efficient water filter systems on the market. Data from the non-profit water watchdog Environmental Water Group (EWG) has found that reverse osmosis significantly outperforms carbon water filtration. This is because reverse osmosis filters have been proven to remove nitrates, perchlorates, arsenic and other harmful contaminants, which carbon filters alone cannot.

Despite their name, most RO water filtration systems have more than just a reverse osmosis filter, often combining several other filters to enhance water purification. RO systems with a four-stage filtration process remove harmful contaminants while retaining essential minerals, ensuring that water is clean, safe, and tastes great.

Here’s a quick rundown of how a four-stage water filter system works:

1. Pre-Filter: The water first passes through the pre-filter, which removes large contaminants like sediment, dirt, rust, and debris. This step protects the later filters from clogging and enhances efficiency in removing smaller impurities.

2. Carbon Filter: The carbon filter targets pollutants like pesticides, herbicides, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This stage is essential for improving the flavour and smell of the water. This filter also helps protect the RO membrane for a better and longer performance. 

3. Reverse Osmosis Filter: This is the most effective stage for removing microscopic contaminants. Water is forced through a semi-permeable membrane, which blocks heavy metals (lead, arsenic, mercury), bacteria, viruses, and dissolved salts. This process removes up to 99% of contaminants, making the water pure and safe for consumption.

4. Post Carbon Filter / Minerals: After reverse osmosis, the water may be slightly acidic due to the removal of minerals. The post carbon filter for the Hommix countertop range also includes coral sand (or carbon/mineral filter, which is optional), together this filter further improves the taste of the water and adds essential minerals. 

How Do Countertop Models Differ?

There are two different types of countertop RO systems, plumbed and non-plumbed (zero installation). Majority of Hommix countertop RO models are plumbed, which means that you don’t need to deal with manually filling up the tank with tap water. As and when you dispense pure water, the device will start purifying water and fill up the tank. The water connections are not visible as they run under the kitchen units, a small hole is drilled on the worktop or at the end of the unit if preferred. 

The ‘zero installation’ countertop devices on the other hand do not require plumbing, these can be plugged into an electricity port and used to filter tap water. These systems have similar dimensions to coffee machines and are filled with water in a similar way. Tap water is poured into the detachable reservoir manually. This water then passes through a comprehensive reverse osmosis water filter system, removing contaminants from the water and leaving it purified. 

For homeowners planning to stay in one property long-term, an under-the-sink or a plumbed countertop RO system is a great choice. These models offer continuous filtration without the need to manually refill a reservoir. While they come at a higher cost, their added convenience and seamless operation can make them a worthwhile investment.

Benefits of Countertop Reverse Osmosis System

In many cases, choosing a countertop RO system instead of a permanent model offers several advantages. 

Let’s explore these benefits in more detail.

Compact Size

Countertop reverse osmosis systems offer a highly compact solution to water filtration. These appliances are approximately the size of a coffee machine. This means that they will not take up much countertop space (usually maximum 29cm wide), leaving you with plenty of room for cooking and food preparation. Their sleek and compact design also means that they will blend neatly into their surroundings and not take away from the kitchen’s appearance.

Portability 

For zero installation countertop RO systems; With just a standard plug socket required to power this machine, osmosis reverse water filters can be moved around the house or to different properties with ease. This can be a significant advantage for many people who require a more versatile solution that can be moved as necessary.

Plumbed reverse osmosis systems (both countertop and under sink) can also be moved by disconnecting the feed and waste water, these systems can be reinstalled at a new home with ease. You will simply need a reinstallation kit, which can be purchased from Hommix via live chat or email to cs@hommix.co.uk.

Effective Water Filtration

When it comes to water filtration, bigger is not always better. The compact nature of countertop reverse osmosis systems has no bearing on its water filtration capabilities. Despite their small size, countertop models still offer powerful water purification, removing 99% of contaminants.

Easy Installation

Countertop osmosis reverse water filters such as the Hommix ziRO require zero installation, offering plug-and-purify convenience. Under-sink and plumbed countertop reverse osmosis systems, on the other hand, require simple installation to connect the system to pipes and water supply, which can be carried out by DIY savvy individuals.

Cost-Effectiveness

Countertop models have a lower upfront cost and are good for your budget over time. Rather than regularly buying bottled water, where the cost is partially for the plastic packaging, investing in a water purifier is much more cost-effective.

Lower Maintenance Requirements

For countertop osmosis reverse water filters, all that needs replacing over time is the individual water filters. In general, RO filters should be replaced biennially, while carbon filters must be replaced every year. How often these filters need replacing varies between models and filters, but they are usually inexpensive to purchase.

Who Would Benefit From a Countertop Reverse Osmosis System?

When it comes to choosing between a standalone countertop osmosis system and a more permanent water RO filtration system, including under-the-sink and whole-house models, it’s important to assess your current circumstances. Let’s examine the types of individuals who would be particularly suited to a countertop system.

Renters

A zero installation countertop reverse osmosis water filter requires no permanent modifications, making it ideal for individuals who rent an apartment or house with plumbing restrictions. It provides clean, purified water without relying on old or unreliable plumbing. The portable design also ensures renters can take it with them if they decide to move.

Students

Students living in shared housing often have limited access to high-quality drinking water. A zero installation countertop reverse osmosis filter removes contaminants from communal water sources, ensuring safe and clean drinking water. It also helps students save money by reducing their reliance on expensive bottled water.

Frequent Movers

People who like to move around frequently require a portable and easy-to-use water filtration system. A countertop zero installation reverse osmosis filter requires no installation, making it perfect for people who may need to change locations for work often. It provides immediate access to clean water without any hassle.

Residents of High-Rise Buildings

Water quality in high-rise buildings can sometimes be compromised due to ageing plumbing. A zero installation countertop reverse osmosis system effectively removes contaminants, ensuring safe drinking water. It also eliminates the need to rely on shared or building-wide filtration systems, giving users control over their own water quality.

Hommix

At Hommix, we take pride in offering a comprehensive range of home water purification solutions tailored to meet diverse needs. 

Whether you are seeking a countertop reverse osmosis system, like the Hommix ziRO, for its portability and ease of use, an under-sink water filter system for discreet and efficient purification, or whole-house filtration to ensure clean water throughout your home, we have the ideal solution for you. Our water purifiers are designed to provide you with the highest quality water, enhancing both your health and lifestyle.

To discuss your home water purification requirements, contact us today. One of our knowledgeable team members will be happy to help you.