Are you concerned about the potential for pipe corrosion in your plumbing system? If you use reverse osmosis water treatment to improve the quality of your tap water, it’s important to be aware of the potential for corrosion and take steps to prevent it.
In this article, we will provide you with the information you need to know about pipe corrosion and reverse osmosis, including the types of pipes that are safe to use with RO treated water and tips on how to prevent corrosion and protect your plumbing system.
First, we will explore the different types of pipe materials and their compatibility with RO water. Not all pipe materials are created equal, and certain types of pipes may be more susceptible to corrosion when exposed to reverse osmosis water.
We will also discuss the importance of regular maintenance and proper installation to prevent corrosion from occurring. With this knowledge, you can take proactive steps to protect your plumbing system and ensure that it continues to function properly for years to come.
Key Takeaways
– Reverse osmosis can corrode certain pipe materials such as copper, steel, galvanized steel, iron, and stainless steel.
– Plastic pipes like PEX, polypropylene, and PVDF are safe to use with reverse osmosis treated water.
– RO treated water is corrosive because the dissolved solids that form a protective layer inside pipes have been filtered out.
– To prevent corrosion of pipes, use pipe materials that are resistant to RO water, install an inline filter to remove contaminants, and increase the alkalinity of your water.
Types of Pipe Materials
If you’re worried about pipe corrosion from reverse osmosis, it’s important to know that certain pipe materials may be susceptible. These materials include copper, steel, galvanized steel, iron, and stainless steel. They can corrode when exposed to RO treated water due to the removal of protective TDS.
On the other hand, plastic pipes like PEX, polypropylene, and PVDF are safe to use with treated water. PEX piping, in particular, is known for its durability and resistance to a variety of chemicals, including RO water.
PVC piping, on the other hand, is not recommended for use with reverse osmosis systems as the treated water can extract additives from the PVC, weakening the piping structure and contaminating high-purity water.
One of the main advantages of plastic pipes is their corrosion resistance. Unlike metal pipes, plastic pipes are not susceptible to corrosion caused by aggressive water or chemicals. PEX piping, for example, is highly resistant to mineral and other contaminants, making it an ideal choice for reverse osmosis systems. Additionally, plastic pipes are lightweight, easy to install, and have a longer service life compared to metal pipes.
If you’re concerned about potential corrosion from RO treated water, consider replacing your metal pipes with plastic ones to ensure the longevity of your plumbing system.
Compatibility with RO Water
When using a reverse osmosis system, it’s important to consider the compatibility of different piping materials with the treated water.
RO friendly pipe materials like PEX, polypropylene, and PVDF are safe to use with reverse osmosis treated water. These materials are resistant to mineral and other contaminants and won’t be weakened by the aggressive nature of RO treated water.
On the other hand, using incompatible piping materials can lead to long term effects of RO on pipes. Materials like copper, galvanized steel, iron, and stainless steel can corrode, leach, and pit with exposure to RO treated water. PVC piping can weaken and contaminate high-purity water, while lead pipes and lead-containing solder can be dissolved and leached by RO treated water.
To prevent corrosion of pipes, use pipe materials that are resistant to RO water, and always install an inline filter to remove contaminants and increase the alkalinity of your water.
Preventing Corrosion
To prevent damage to your plumbing, it’s important to choose pipe materials that are resistant to the aggressive nature of RO treated water. PEX, polypropylene, and PVDF are the best pipe materials to use with reverse osmosis systems. These materials are highly durable and resistant to mineral and other contaminants, making them ideal for use with treated water.
In addition to using corrosion-resistant pipe materials, it’s also important to install an inline filter to remove contaminants that could cause corrosion. You can also increase the alkalinity of your water by adding alkalinity additives, which can help reduce the corrosiveness of RO treated water. Another option is to use corrosion-resistant coatings to protect your pipes from the aggressive nature of RO treated water.
By taking these steps, you can help prevent corrosion and extend the life of your plumbing system.
Additional Considerations
Consider using a remineralization filter or alkalinity filter cartridge to reduce the corrosiveness of RO treated water. These filters add minerals and increase the alkalinity of the water, which helps to protect pipes from corrosion.
Additionally, increasing the water alkalinity can improve the taste and health benefits of drinking water. When choosing a remineralization filter or alkalinity filter cartridge, it’s important to consider the type of minerals that are added.
Look for filters that add calcium and magnesium, as these minerals are essential for good health. You should also choose a filter that is compatible with your reverse osmosis system and that has a long service life.
By taking these steps, you can reduce the corrosiveness of RO treated water and protect your pipes from damage.
Conclusion
Now that you know the relationship between pipe corrosion and reverse osmosis, it’s important to take steps to protect your plumbing system.
First, determine the type of pipes you have and whether they’re compatible with RO treated water. If you have copper or plastic pipes, you should be safe. However, if you have iron or galvanized steel pipes, you may need to take extra precautions.
To prevent corrosion, consider installing a pH balancing filter or a water softener to reduce the acidity of the RO water and minimize its corrosive effects. Regular inspections and maintenance of your plumbing system can also help identify and address any corrosion issues before they cause significant damage.
By being proactive and taking these steps, you can enjoy the benefits of RO water treatment without putting your plumbing system at risk.
