Reverse osmosis membranes are the main purification elements in RO systems. They help reduce dissolved solids, hardness salts, heavy metals and other contaminants in drinking water. A reverse osmosis membrane also forms a physical barrier that bacteria and viruses do not normally pass through.
When choosing a replacement membrane, consider more than its GPD rating. The membrane must be compatible with the specific reverse osmosis system. RO membranes with the same rated output may differ in their design, connections and intended application.
Before reaching the membrane, feed water passes through pre-treatment cartridges. Sediment filters capture sand, rust and other undissolved particles. Activated carbon reduces chlorine and organic compounds that could damage the membrane surface or shorten its service life.
The pre-treated water is then forced through a semi-permeable membrane. Its nominal filtration rating is approximately 0.0001 microns. Water molecules pass through the membrane, while most dissolved salts and other contaminants remain in the concentrate stream.
The RO process produces two water streams:
By reducing hardness minerals and dissolved salts, reverse osmosis technology also helps prevent limescale in kettles, coffee machines and other household appliances.
GPD means gallons per day. It indicates how much purified water a membrane can produce under the specified operating conditions.
| Membrane output | Nominal purified water production | AQUAPHOR membranes |
|---|---|---|
| 50 GPD | up to 190 litres per day | RO-50, RO-50S, Pro 50 |
| 100 GPD | up to 375-380 litres per day | RO-100, RO-100S, Pro 100 |
| 150 GPD | up to 568 litres per day | RO-150S |
A higher GPD rating does not necessarily mean better filtration. It primarily indicates how much clean water the membrane can produce within a given period.
When selecting a membrane, consider:
A 100 GPD membrane should replace a 50 GPD membrane only when the RO system is designed for that output. Similar dimensions do not guarantee compatibility.
| Membrane | Output | Compatible systems |
|---|---|---|
| RO-50 | up to 190 l/day | RO-101 |
| RO-50S | up to 190 l/day | RO-70S, RO-101S, RO-101S EU |
| RO-100 | up to 375 l/day | RO-102 |
| RO-100S | up to 375 l/day | RO-70S EU, RO-102S, RO-102S EU |
| Pro 50 | up to 190 l/day | Osmo Pro 50 |
| Pro 100 | up to 380 l/day | Osmo Pro 100, RO-202S Pro |
| RO-150S | up to 568 l/day | RO-206S |
Before purchasing, check the exact filter name on the system housing, in the user manual or in the purchase documents. The list of compatible systems should also be verified on the selected membrane's product page.
The number of litres per day specified for a membrane is a nominal value. Actual RO membrane performance depends on:
Reverse osmosis works by applying pressure greater than the natural osmotic pressure of the feed water. If the available pressure is too low, water flow through the membrane decreases and the storage tank takes longer to fill.
The required operating pressure should be checked in the instructions for the specific RO system. Some systems require a booster pump when the incoming water pressure is insufficient.
Reduced output does not always mean that the membrane has failed. Check the feed pressure, prefilters, connections and storage tank before replacing it.
There is no universal service life for all osmosis membranes. Replacement frequency depends on the membrane model, feed water quality, water consumption, operating pressure and timely prefilter replacement.
The following signs may indicate that membrane replacement is required:
RO membrane performance can be assessed with a TDS meter by comparing the feed water and permeate water readings. However, the result must be interpreted according to the source water and system specifications. A single TDS value is not a universal replacement threshold for every system.
The membrane must be protected from mechanical particles, chlorine and other substances that may damage its filtration layer. This is the purpose of the pre-treatment stages installed before the membrane.
To maintain reliable performance:
Prefilters and reverse osmosis membranes usually have different replacement intervals and do not necessarily need to be changed at the same time.
The range includes AQUAPHOR reverse osmosis membranes rated at 50, 100 and 150 GPD for compatible household systems. The current price, availability, output and list of suitable filters are provided on each product page.
If you need a complete filtration system rather than a replacement membrane, explore the range of AQUAPHOR reverse osmosis systems. Information about receiving your order is available in the payment and delivery section.
A reverse osmosis membrane is a semi-permeable filtration element through which water is forced under pressure. It helps reduce dissolved salts, hardness minerals, heavy metals and other contaminants. The membrane also provides a physical barrier against bacteria and viruses.
First identify the exact model of the RO system. Then check membrane compatibility, GPD output, required feed pressure and the manufacturer's instructions. Do not choose a membrane by its dimensions or appearance alone.
The main difference is nominal output. A 50 GPD membrane can produce up to 190 litres of purified water per day, while a 100 GPD model can produce up to 375-380 litres. Actual output depends on water pressure, temperature and feed water quality.
Only if the reverse osmosis system is designed to work with the higher-output membrane. The membrane housing, flow restrictor and other components must also be compatible. An unsuitable membrane can affect the balance and efficiency of the entire system.
Membrane life depends on its model, source water quality, consumption and the condition of the prefilters. Follow the maintenance schedule for the specific system and monitor the actual quality and flow of the purified water.
Possible signs include reduced output, slow storage tank filling, higher TDS in the purified water, a change in taste or the return of limescale. Similar symptoms can also be caused by low pressure or clogged prefilters, so the whole system should be checked.
Yes. After installation, the membrane and system must be prepared and flushed according to the user manual. The first batches of purified water are normally discarded rather than used for drinking.
Household RO membrane modules are generally designed for replacement. Unapproved chemical cleaning can damage the membrane surface and affect the integrity of the system. Cleaning should be performed only when it is specifically permitted by the manufacturer.
Yes, if the system instructions allow it and you can safely shut off the water, release the pressure and install the replacement correctly. After replacement, flush the system and check all connections for leaks. Professional service is recommended if you do not have the necessary experience.
Yes. Insufficient pressure reduces the filtration rate and increases the time needed to fill the storage tank. The required operating pressure depends on the RO system and should be checked in the manufacturer's instructions.
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