Hydroviv Vs. Reverse Osmosis Comparison Guide

With so many options available on the market, choosing the right water filtration system for your needs can be overwhelming. Two popular choices for water filtration are Hydroviv and Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems. This comparison guide will explore some unique functionality and features that establish the differences between Hydroviv vs. reverse osmosis systems to help you make an informed decision.

Hydroviv Water Filtration System

Hydroviv filters use different filtration technologies, including activated carbon, catalytic carbon, and ion exchange, to remove a wide range of contaminants, including lead, arsenic, chromium, chlorine, chloramine, and many others. The filters have a long lifespan, typically six months, making them cost-effective and convenient to use.

Reverse Osmosis (RO) Water Filtration System

Reverse Osmosis (RO) is a water filtration process that uses a semipermeable membrane to remove contaminants from water. RO systems are known for their ability to remove a wide range of contaminants, including dissolved solids, heavy metals, bacteria, viruses, and other impurities.

Hydroviv vs. Reverse Osmosis Systems 

Let's compare Hydroviv and Reverse osmosis systems in some key areas.

Filtration Efficiency

Both Hydroviv and RO systems are known for their high filtration efficiency. However, reverse osmosis is known for its high effectiveness in removing many contaminants from water, including dissolved solids, heavy metals, pesticides, bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances. RO systems typically have multiple stages of filtration, which can remove contaminants down to the molecular level, providing a high-quality purified water output.

Reverse osmosis typically produces water with a high purity level, often exceeding 95% to 99% removal of contaminants. 

Water Waste

One of the drawbacks of RO systems is that they generate a significant amount of wastewater during the filtration process. This can be a concern in areas where water scarcity is an issue. On the other hand, Hydroviv filters do not generate wastewater, making them a more environmentally friendly option. 

Interestingly, with many modern systems featuring advanced technology that reduces water waste, reverse osmosis systems have become more water-efficient over the year. Some RO systems have a water-saving mode or can be combined with a permeate pump to optimize water usage and minimize wastewater production.

Cost

The cost of Hydroviv and RO systems can vary depending on the specific model, features, and installation requirements. Generally, RO systems tend to have a higher upfront cost due to the system's complexity and installation process. Additionally, the ongoing cost of replacing filters and membranes can increase over time. Hydroviv filters are typically replaced every six months, which may result in lower long-term costs compared to RO systems.

Taste and Mineral Retention

Hydroviv filters are designed to retain beneficial minerals in the water, which can result in better-tasting water. On the other hand, RO systems are known for their thorough filtration, which can remove contaminants and minerals essential for the taste and health benefits of water, such as calcium and magnesium. This can result in purified water that is slightly acidic and lacking in minerals, which may affect the taste. However, this issue is corrected in the final stage of the filtration process in a system like this reverse osmotic filter system with a faucet, where the water will be "polished" to produce better-tasting water.