Reverse Osmosis
Reverse Osmosis | Water Purification | Plumbing | Rockford
Imagine turning on your tap in Rockford and tasting nothing but crisp, clean refreshment—no chlorine bite, no lingering minerals, just pure hydration. HEP’s reverse osmosis systems strip away up to 99% of dissolved solids, chemicals, and contaminants, routing them down the drain and leaving only pristine H₂O for your family, pets, and favorite recipes. Our licensed plumbers tuck the compact RO unit neatly under your sink, connect dedicated faucets, and fine-tune every filter so you can pour a glass of confidence any time of day.
From free in-home tests to same-day installs and friendly follow-ups, we make water purification effortless. You’ll notice brighter coffee, spot-free dishes, and fewer plastic bottles cluttering the recycling bin—plus the peace of mind that comes from a local team on call 24/7 if a question ever bubbles up. Choose HEP, and taste why Rockford neighbors rave about the difference a little science can make in every sip.
FAQs
How does a reverse osmosis (RO) system purify Rockford tap water?
Reverse osmosis forces tap water through a semipermeable membrane with microscopic pores (≈0.0001 µm). In Rockford, this process removes up to 99% of dissolved solids such as lead, nitrates, fluoride, arsenic, chlorine by-products, and micro-organisms that may come from aging distribution lines. The system typically includes sediment and carbon pre-filters to capture rust, sand, and chlorine before the membrane, ensuring cleaner, better-tasting water at the dedicated RO faucet.
What routine maintenance does an RO system require in the Rockford area?
Most RO systems need three basic services: (1) Sediment and carbon pre-filters should be replaced every 6–12 months to prevent clogging from Rockford’s moderately hard water. (2) The RO membrane usually lasts 2–3 years, depending on incoming water quality and usage. (3) The post-carbon polishing filter should be changed annually for fresh taste. A full sanitization and tank-pressure check are recommended once a year. Our local technicians can set up an automatic reminder plan and handle disposal of used cartridges.
Will installing an RO unit under my sink lower water pressure or flow?
Point-of-use RO systems store treated water in a pressurized holding tank, so household water pressure is maintained at the dedicated RO faucet. Standard flow is 0.5–0.75 gpm, ideal for drinking and cooking. Your main kitchen faucet, shower, and appliances remain on the regular supply line and will not experience any pressure drop.
How much water does an RO system waste, and are there efficiency options?
Traditional RO units send 3–4 gallons of brine to the drain for every gallon of purified water. High-efficiency models we install in Rockford reduce the waste ratio to 1:1 or better by using permeate pump technology and low-energy membranes. Some homeowners route RO reject water to garden hoses or sump basins for secondary use.
Does RO remove healthy minerals, and should I add them back?
Yes. Calcium, magnesium, and trace minerals are largely removed along with contaminants, resulting in very low TDS (total dissolved solids). While the body obtains most minerals from food, many customers prefer the crisp taste of remineralized water. We offer alkaline filter cartridges that reintroduce calcium and magnesium, raise pH, and improve taste without compromising purity.
How long does installation take and what permits are needed in Rockford?
A standard under-sink RO installation takes about 2 hours. Our licensed plumbers drill a ¼-inch hole for the faucet, mount filters, connect to the cold-water line, and run a drain saddle to your sink’s tailpiece—all compliant with Illinois Plumbing Code. No city permit is required for point-of-use systems, but we register each installation for warranty tracking and can provide a certificate of installation upon request for real-estate disclosures.