Reverse Osmosis System and Water Softener: What's the Difference?

You will find a wide variety of devices on the market designed to purify water. These include RO systems and water softeners. While there are differences that distinguish them, their ultimate purpose is more or less the same: you want to treat the water you use in your home. However, the two devices do not work the same way or produce the same results. Before choosing one or the other, here is what you need to know about the difference between an RO system and a water softener.

Water softeners and RO systems

The purpose of a water softener is to enable you to purify the water you use by removing all the limescale it contains. To enjoy its benefits, it must be installed directly at the water inlet. This way, the system can filter all the water entering your home. You benefit from softened water that is completely free of limescale. Your fixtures and equipment, such as faucets, pipes, and plumbing fixtures, will therefore last longer.
An RO system, meanwhile, is a device that enables you to purify water at a specific location. It is installed at a particular point, usually under the sink. In essence, an RO system's role is to filter tap water. The device consists of several filters that will protect the membrane and extend its life. An RO system provides pure water that is free of waste. You can use it for cooking or simply drink it without worrying about getting sick.

Advantages and disadvantages

An RO system has many strengths and a few weaknesses. Its main advantage is the ability to remove all impurities, providing pure water. The taste and odor of the water are also improved, but this can lead to increased water consumption. The device discharges, on average, one to two times the amount of water it purifies.
A water softener reduces how often heating equipment and household appliances need descaling. You will also be able to save a substantial amount of money because you will use fewer household cleaning products. Reducing limescale will therefore allow you to spend less. One notable disadvantage of this device is how frequently it needs maintenance. Maintenance must be as regular as possible if you want to avoid damaging your water softener.

Choosing between a water softener and an RO system

An RO system or a water softener: which should you ultimately choose ? Each of these devices has its own characteristics. While a water softener can work throughout a home's entire plumbing system, an RO system is more centralized. You also need enough space to install it. It is generally installed under the sink, but more and more models on the market can be installed on the sink.
Before choosing either type, you first need to assess your needs. Do you need to purify your drinking water or remove limescale from your water ? Think about how you use your water: this is the only way to know whether you should choose an RO system or a water softener.