Can Reverse Osmosis Remove Chlorine from Water?

RO System Configuration

Reverse osmosis systems typically use a semipermeable membrane to remove impurities, including dissolved solids and chlorine. However, the standard RO membrane has a porosity of around 0.0001 microns, which allows chlorine molecules to pass through. To effectively remove chlorine, some RO systems incorporate additional treatment stages, such as activated carbon or UV light, which absorb or destroy chlorine.

Chlorine Removal Efficiency

Studies have shown that activated carbon can remove up to 99.9% of chlorine from water, while UV light can destroy 99.99% of chlorine molecules. By combining these treatment stages with RO filtration, water can be effectively dechlorinated. For example, a system featuring a 2-stage RO system with activated carbon and UV light treatment can remove up to 99.99% of chlorine from water.

System Selection and Maintenance

When selecting an RO system for chlorine removal, it’s essential to consider the type of chlorine present in the water (free chlorine or chloramines) and the system’s design. For optimal performance, the system should be properly maintained, including regular filter replacements and cleaning of the membrane. This will ensure that the system effectively removes chlorine and other impurities from the water.