Clean drinking water is necessary for healthy living, and with the increase in water pollution, the importance of water purifiers has increased significantly. Two most popular water purifying technologies used in water purifiers are Reverse osmosis (RO) and ultraviolet (UV). The main difference between RO and UV water purifiers is the technology they use to purify water. RO (Reverse Osmosis) uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove impurities from water, while UV (Ultraviolet) uses UV radiation to kill bacteria and viruses in water. In addition, RO purifiers are effective against all contaminants, including dissolved salts, while UV purifiers are effective against microorganisms only.
To get a rough idea about RO or UV Water Purifier: Which is Better, you may check the comparison table given below:
| Feature | RO Water Purifiers | UV Water Purifiers |
| Technology | Uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove impurities. | Uses ultraviolet light to kill microorganisms. |
| Effectiveness | Highly effective in removing dissolved salts, heavy metals, and chemicals. | Highly effective in killing bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. |
| Mineral retention | Removes essential minerals from water. | Does not affect the mineral content of water. |
| Maintenance | Requires regular filter replacements and periodic membrane cleaning. | Requires periodic lamp replacements. |
| Operating costs | Higher operating costs due to filter replacements and periodic membrane cleaning. | Lower operating costs due to fewer parts and simpler technology. |
| Suitable for | Areas with high TDS (total dissolved solids) levels | Areas with high microbial contamination |
| Water Taste | May affect the taste of water by removing essential minerals. | Does not affect the taste of water. |
Check the infographics for a better understanding
RO (Reverse Osmosis):
RO (Reverse Osmosis) is a water purification technology that uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove dissolved minerals, impurities, and contaminants from water. The process involves pushing water through the RO membrane under high pressure, which separates the water molecules from the impurities, allowing only pure water to pass through.
Pros:
- RO technology is highly effective in removing a wide range of impurities from water, including minerals, heavy metals, chemicals, and bacteria.
- Such systems can remove unpleasant tastes and odours from water, making it more palatable.
- You can easily install, use and clean RO systems.
Cons:
- RO systems waste a significant amount of water during the purification process.
- While RO technology is highly effective in removing impurities, it also removes beneficial minerals from water that are important for human health.
Why should you choose an RO water purifier?
An RO water purifier can be chosen for its ability to remove impurities and contaminants, resulting in better-tasting and higher-quality water. It can also provide long-term health benefits by removing harmful substances such as lead and arsenic.
UV (ultraviolet):
UV (ultraviolet) water purifiers use UV light to kill bacteria and viruses in water. The technology works by exposing water to UV light, damaging microorganisms’ DNA and rendering them harmless.
Pros:
- UV water purifiers do not use chemicals to treat water, making them a natural and environmentally friendly option for water purification.
- Such purifiers consume relatively low energy, making them an energy-efficient solution for water purification.
Cons:
- UV water purifiers do not remove sediment or other particles from water, which can affect the clarity and taste of the water.
- UV water purifiers require electricity, which can be challenging in areas with limited or unreliable power supply.
- The UV lamps used in water purifiers have a limited lifespan and must be replaced periodically, which can add to the maintenance cost.
Why should one choose a UV water purifier?
UV water purifiers are unique in their ability to provide natural and chemical-free water purification and their effectiveness against bacteria and viruses. In addition, they are energy-efficient, easy to maintain, and can purify water quickly, making them a convenient and reliable solution for households and small businesses.
Choosing between an RO or UV water purifier depends on factors such as water quality, budget, maintenance, and space availability. RO and UV water purifiers have their strengths and weaknesses, and choosing between them depends on your specific needs and circumstances.
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