Reverse Osmosis Water Filters
Replacement filters for reverse osmosis drinking water systems, including GE FQROPF and FQ18MN and Swift Green SGF-706, SGF-4709 and SGF-713S cartridges. Match the model number on your current cartridge or in your RO system manual, and replace each stage on the schedule your system maker recommends.
See also Swift Green reverse osmosis water filters and under sink water filters. Complete RO units, such as the Rainfresh RO450, are in water filtration systems.
Reverse osmosis filter stages, replacement and FAQs ▾
Reverse Osmosis Filter FAQs
How often should I replace reverse osmosis filters?
Replace reverse osmosis pre-filters and post-filters about every 12 months, or sooner if water production drops noticeably, and the RO membrane less often. One RO maker sets a maximum membrane life of 36 months, and Nova Scotia's environment department says a membrane can last up to five years depending on your water. Always follow your system maker's schedule.
What do the stages in a reverse osmosis system do?
In a reverse osmosis system, the pre-filter traps sediment and uses activated carbon to reduce chlorine, which can damage the membrane. The RO membrane then removes dissolved solids, a storage tank holds the treated water, and a carbon post-filter polishes taste and odour before the faucet. GE's manual notes that reject water carrying the dissolved solids goes to the drain.
What does a reverse osmosis water filter system remove?
A reverse osmosis water filter system can remove most substances found in drinking water, including arsenic, chloride and nitrates, according to Nova Scotia's environment department. Manitoba's drinking water office lists reverse osmosis among treatments that can remove fluoride. Manitoba advises following the maker's maintenance instructions and testing the treated water for fluoride each year.
Does a reverse osmosis system waste water?
Yes, a reverse osmosis system sends part of the water it receives to the drain, because the membrane rejects dissolved solids in a stream of reject water. Nova Scotia's environment department says up to half of the water supplied to a reverse osmosis unit can be wastewater, and that reject water from a point-of-use unit may be discharged to a septic system.
Why is my reverse osmosis system making less water?
A reverse osmosis system that makes noticeably less water often needs new filters. RO manufacturer manuals say a noticeable drop in water production indicates the sediment pre-filter needs changing, and a drop in flow can also mean the membrane is due. Replace the cartridges by the model number on your current filter, or ask us for part-finding help.
What should I do after changing reverse osmosis filters?
After changing reverse osmosis filters, flush the system before drinking the water. One RO maker's manual says to run at least two gallons (about 7.5 litres) through new pre-filters and post-filters, and to keep flushing until the water runs clear. The same manual says filter changes call for sanitizing the system or storage tank, so follow your system maker's steps.
