Counter top RO system after long disuse?
 

I was just reading an older post where someone was discussing RO water, flushing, etc. In this post, he mentioned that he was concerned about using his RO system infrequently, and one of the responses was from Ray. He mentioned that the only problem with an RO system that hasn't been used in a while is that if left with no water in it, the membrane will dry out, and damage it. Well guess what. I have one of these counter top systems, and used to use it very frequently as I used to grow in SH. But that was over 3 years ago...and I recently got it out of the cabinet and began using it A LOT as I have 3 humidifiers going, and use RO water in them. After each use I empty all the water I can out it, and had done this when I'd put it away so long ago...My question is how do I know if it's still in working or if the membrane is dried up?

The membranes don't last forever. They normally are rated for a certain number of gallons, and then it's time to replace them.

If you look at the manual for your device you can look up how often you're supposed to change the membrane cartridge. Your manual is probably available online if you can't find it. I always download a PDF of the manual for everything I buy, so I don't worry about losing it.

I don't remember whether you have a water analysis. You might not need an RO unit for growing most orchids.

Thank you ES., but I don't have a manual because I got this one from Ray. I believe it was on the very first counter top ones he began to put together and sell. A prototype if you will. I'm guessing I need to change it. I'm not using the RO water any more for my orchids, but for the humidifiers. :)

I suggest that you get a TDS meter... either from your friendly local hydroponics store, or online. They don't cost much. Measure the TDS from your tap water, and the TDS coming out of the the RO unit. The absolute numbers may not be terribly accurate, but the relative readings should tell whether it is working or not (if what comes out of the unit is 10% or less of what goes in, it's working... if what is coming out is close to what goes in, it's not)

Why not send Ray an email and ask him for advice on how to replace the membrane.

If you ever get snow around your place, you could melt that for your humidifiers.

If the thing has been sitting dry for more than a few months, it is time to replace the membrane. Probably the sediment and carbon filters too, just to be safe. I carry a 2-year maintenance kit.

As an editorial comment: I don't know why folks post such queries in forums, rather than just emailing me... :biggrin:

Ha! Before the storm that we are currently having at this moment, leaving us with six to nine additional inches, there was already 6 to 8 inches on the ground but never melted because it's been too cold. So I certainly have enough snow for all the humidifiers I could manage the stuff into the house!

:biggrin: that's terrible!

Remember one thing, snow that you melt is not always clean so I would be careful using it in some humidifiers.

I usually find sediment in the bottom of the bucket when I have melted snow.

Remember things fall from trees wind blows etc.