In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about reverse osmosis filters including how they work, who needs RO, the benefits, common myths, and how to choose the right system for your home.
Reverse osmosis filters are one of the most advanced and effective ways to improve the quality of your drinking water at home. Designed to remove a wide range of contaminants, a 5-Stage or 6-Stage reverse osmosis water filter system delivers clean, fresh-tasting water straight from your tap.
A reverse osmosis (RO) filter is a water purification system that uses an ultrafine membrane to remove impurities at a microscopic level.
Unlike standard filters that primarily target sediment and chlorine, reverse osmosis filters are capable of reducing dissolved solids, heavy metals, and other contaminants that affect your water quality.
A typical reverse osmosis system includes these components:
As water passes through each stage, contaminants are progressively removed. The result is highly purified water that is noticeably cleaner in taste, smell, and appearance.
At Clean & Clear Water, we offer 5- and 6-Stage Reverse Osmosis filter systems, built in Australia with genuine components from the USA and UK. These multi-stage processes are what sets our reverse osmosis water filters apart from basic filtration systems, making them the ideal choice for anyone seeking a higher level of water purification.
Access to safe drinking water is vital to sustain life. In Australia, our tap water is generally considered safe to drink. But the quality, taste and odour of your water can vary depending on where you live and where your water comes from.
Some of the main factors affecting water quality around the country include:
“Forever chemicals” is a common term for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These manufactured chemicals are known for their resistance to water, heat, stains, and flames – but they also resist breaking down in our environment.
One type of PFAS, known as PFOA, has been classified by the World Health Organisation as a Group 1 human carcinogen. In Australia, the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) has reviewed guidance on PFAS - Opens in new tab in our drinking water, as part of an update to the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines - Opens in new tab. The review significantly lowered the permissible levels for PFOA, as well as PFOS and PFHxS. However, our allowable limits for certain “forever chemicals” are less strict than in the USA, Canada and the EU.
If you’re concerned about your household water quality, installing a reverse osmosis system offers an effective and dependable solution.
Reverse osmosis filters can remove some minerals from water, but drinking water is not the main source of minerals for most people. A balanced diet provides the minerals your body needs each day.
Reverse osmosis water filters are designed to reduce unwanted contaminants and provide cleaner, better-tasting drinking water.
Reverse osmosis systems do use some water to flush away impurities during the filtration process. However, our modern reverse osmosis systems are much more efficient than older models, and many of our customers consider the high level of purification well worth it.
It’s also worth comparing this with bottled water. Producing bottled water requires water, energy, packaging and transport. Plastic bottles can also contribute to landfill, river and ocean pollution. For many households, an RO filter offers a more practical and sustainable long-term alternative to regularly buying bottled water.
Fridge filters are useful for improving the taste and smell of drinking water, especially by reducing chlorine. However, they are not designed to remove the same range of contaminants as a reverse osmosis water filter.
A reverse osmosis system provides a more advanced level of filtration, helping reduce dissolved solids, heavy metals and other impurities that standard fridge filters may not effectively target.
Selecting the right reverse osmosis water filter system for your home depends on your household needs and setup. Here at Clean and Clear Water, we’re water purification specialists with over 30 years’ experience in providing filtration solutions. Our experienced technicians install RO units in homes across Sydney and Melbourne, and we can help you find the best option for your needs.
Before choosing an RO filter for your home, there are a few things to consider:
Most of our customers prefer under sink reverse osmosis systems, which are compact and provide filtered water through a dedicated tap. If you have a larger home, you might want to consider pairing it with our whole house filtration solutions.
The amount of water your household uses will influence the size and capacity of the system you need. Our under sink systems are ideal for permanent, high-volume filtration, hidden out of sight.
Reverse osmosis systems rely on water pressure to operate effectively. Our modern systems are made with high-grade pressure housings and are designed to be more water-efficient than older models.
To keep your system performing at its best, filters and membranes need to be replaced periodically. Pre- and post-filters are typically replaced every 6–12 months, while the RO membrane lasts longer depending on usage and water quality.
At Clean & Clear Water, we offer free annual maintenance on all our filter systems, with guaranteed competitive prices on cartridge replacements.
While some systems can be installed as a DIY project, our professional installation service ensures optimal performance and peace of mind, particularly for more complex reverse osmosis filtration setups.
Both RO systems offer high-grade water purification. However, our 6-Stage reverse osmosis filter includes an alkaline or remineralising filter. It works by raising the pH levels and reduces the number of substances that can be absorbed by the body. It also infuses the water with minerals such as sodium, magnesium, potassium and calcium.
Reverse osmosis filters
Call our friendly team for a quote to start the benefits of drinking cleaner, fresher water everyday. We service all greater Melbourne and Sydney suburbs.
For many households, the answer is yes. While the upfront cost is higher than basic filters, a Clean & Clear Water reverse osmosis system delivers significantly improved water quality, taste and smell. With RO, you’ll reduce spending on bottled water and gain ongoing convenience with clean water on demand. Plus, it can last for years to come with minimal parts replacement and maintenance.
Reverse osmosis systems do produce some wastewater as part of the filtration process. However, our modern systems are far more efficient than older designs, with improved recovery rates that minimise water waste. Our RO systems now balance performance with sustainability.
Yes, reverse osmosis filters are well-suited to Australian water supplies. Whether your water comes from a municipal source or rainwater tank, an RO system from Clean & Clear Water can help improve quality by reducing a wide range of contaminants and deliver consistent, high-quality drinking water for homes across Sydney and Melbourne.
