How Reverse Osmosis Systems Work for Clean Drinking Water

How Reverse Osmosis Systems Work for Clean Drinking Water

When it comes to ensuring safe, great-tasting water in your home, not all solutions are created equal. While pitcher filters and fridge attachments offer minimal filtration, they can’t compete with the advanced technology behind reverse osmosis drinking water systems. These systems are designed to eliminate a wide range of contaminants from your tap water, giving you peace of mind every time you fill your glass.

At Culligan of Red Wing, we help families in Red Wing, MN, enjoy cleaner, healthier water through professionally installed reverse osmosis drinking water systems. Whether you’re concerned about lead, chlorine, pharmaceuticals, or just want better-tasting water, reverse osmosis (RO) is a proven, affordable solution that works behind the scenes to keep your family safe and hydrated.

So, how does it work? Let’s break it down step-by-step.

What is Reverse Osmosis?

Reverse osmosis is a water purification process that uses pressure to force water through a semipermeable membrane. This membrane is designed to trap harmful contaminants while allowing only clean water molecules to pass through. The result? Pure, refreshing water that’s free from the unpleasant taste and health risks associated with unfiltered tap water.

Reverse osmosis drinking water systems are used in homes, businesses, and even in bottled water facilities for their unmatched performance and reliability.

The Four Stages of Reverse Osmosis Filtration

1. Pre-Filtration

Before water reaches the reverse osmosis membrane, it first goes through a pre-filtration process. This step includes a sediment filter and an activated carbon filter. These filters work together to remove larger particles like dirt, rust, and sand, while also reducing chlorine, pesticides, and other harmful chemicals.

Pre-filtration not only makes the water safer, it also protects the delicate membrane that comes next, helping your reverse osmosis drinking water system last longer.

2. Reverse Osmosis

Now comes the heart of the system. Pressurized water is pushed through the semipermeable membrane, which catches microscopic contaminants such as lead, mercury, chromium, nitrates, and even some bacteria and viruses. This stage is where reverse osmosis drinking water systems shine. The water that passes through is stripped of nearly all impurities.

3. Drainage

The contaminants removed during the reverse osmosis stage are flushed away through a separate drainage line. This ensures that harmful substances are completely removed from your water supply and not simply collected or stored.

4. Storage and Final Polishing

Once filtered, the clean water is stored in a holding tank. Before it comes out of your faucet, it passes through one final activated carbon filter. This polishing filter improves taste and clarity, giving you water that’s crisp, fresh, and delicious.

Culligan’s reverse osmosis drinking water systems can be customized with up to 12 interchangeable filters, tailored to your home’s unique water challenges.

How Reverse Osmosis Systems Work for Clean Drinking Water

Why Choose a Reverse Osmosis System?

1. Unmatched Water Purity

Culligan RO systems are certified to reduce up to 60 different contaminants, including chlorine, lead, nitrates, and even pharmaceuticals. You get safer water for drinking, cooking, and making beverages, all from your kitchen sink.

2. Better-Tasting Food and Drinks

When your water is pure, everything tastes better. Coffee, tea, soup, pasta—every meal benefits from filtered water. No more strange aftertastes or odors from your tap.

3. Affordable and Convenient

With systems starting at just $32.95/month, Culligan makes it easy to enjoy premium water without the need for constant pitcher refills or wasteful plastic bottles. With a reverse osmosis drinking water system, you’re getting high-quality water for just pennies per glass.

4. Eco-Friendly

Say goodbye to single-use plastic water bottles. RO systems provide an unlimited supply of clean water straight from the tap, significantly reducing your household’s plastic waste.

5. Long-Lasting and Smart Technology

Options like the Aqua-Cleer® system include electronic monitoring to ensure proper performance, and filters designed to last up to 1,000 gallons. Smart and tankless models are also available for space-saving convenience.

Popular RO Systems from Culligan of Red Wing

Aquasential® RO System

  • Starting at $39.95/month
  • Up to 7 stages of filtration
  • Custom filters for specific water concerns
  • Unlimited safe drinking water at home

Aqua-Cleer® RO System

  • Starting at $32.95/month
  • 13 advanced filter options
  • Designed for high efficiency
  • Monitoring system for peak performance

Both systems are customizable to fit your family’s exact water needs. Whether your water supply has hard minerals, heavy metals, or unwanted odors, our reverse osmosis drinking water systems have the right filters to handle it.

Why Red Wing Families Trust Culligan

For years, families throughout Red Wing, MN, have trusted Culligan to deliver safer, better-tasting water through our advanced RO systems. Our certified technicians handle everything, from water testing and product selection to installation and maintenance. We don’t just install systems. We build relationships that last.


Plus, all of our reverse osmosis drinking water systems are backed by expert service and industry-leading warranties, so you can feel confident in your investment. We take the time to understand your household’s unique water concerns, so your solution is customized for lasting results. From start to finish, you’ll enjoy a hassle-free experience with support just a phone call away.

Say Goodbye to Pitchers and Filters

Pitcher filters and refrigerator cartridges simply don’t offer the same level of protection or performance as a reverse osmosis system. They need to be refilled or replaced constantly and often leave contaminants behind. When you choose Culligan, you’re choosing convenience, performance, and peace of mind.

Whether you’re using water for baby formula, pets, guests, or your own hydration needs, reverse osmosis drinking water systems ensure every drop is pure and safe. With no more guesswork about when to change filters or whether your water is truly clean, you can focus on the things that matter most. It’s an upgrade in both quality and lifestyle for your entire family.

Contact Our Team Today

Don’t settle for less when it comes to your family’s water. Upgrade your home with a professional-grade reverse osmosis system from Culligan of Red Wing. Enjoy safer, better-tasting water every day, straight from your tap.

If you’re ready to learn more or want to schedule your free in-home water test, contact our team today or call us at (833) 882-9967. We’re here to help you take the next step toward healthier water and a healthier home.

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