RO systems should be maintained properly to be effective, says study
A recent study highlights that simply installing reverse osmosis (RO) systems does not ensure safe drinking water. The research conducted in Chennai found that a significant percentage of post-RO samples still contained E. coli, emphasizing the importance of regular maintenance and user education. The study suggests that without proper upkeep, RO systems may not effectively reduce water contamination, particularly in lower-income households.
- ▪The study found that 31% of post-RO samples contained E. coli, compared to 71% in untreated water.
- ▪Education levels significantly influenced the presence of E. coli, with 36% in postgraduate respondents versus 83% in those with lower education levels.
- ▪Many households mistakenly believe that RO systems require no further maintenance after installation, leading to potential health risks.
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Installing reverse osmosis (RO) systems alone at home is not a guarantee for safe drinking water, a recent study has found. While the technology has been proven capable of removing microbes under ideal operating conditions, a field level study in Chennai showed that microbial contamination was detected in samples from RO units, highlighting the lack of regular maintenance and filter replacement as key issues.The results of the study ‘Evaluating Household Reverse Osmosis Systems for Microbial Safety: A Case Study from Chennai, India’ were recently published in the peer-reviewed Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology.
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