Across various industries, equipment requires specific maintenance methods, and reverse osmosis equipment is no exception. RO equipment requires special attention during winter, especially in northern regions where temperatures are lower and the raw water temperature drops. This can lead to reduced water output, failure to meet water quality standards, and even equipment damage if improperly operated. To ensure the equipment is protected from low temperatures, appropriate protective measures must be taken to minimize unnecessary damage.
Extremely low winter temperatures can cause pipes to freeze and crack. Generally, we advise clients to consider heating the equipment if necessary. If the raw water temperature is very low, the raw water should be heated, and the room should be warmed - using methods such as stoves, central heating, or electric heaters. If the RO equipment is not in operation during winter, all water must be drained from the system, and the RO membranes should be removed and stored indoors to prevent damage from freezing.
For raw water pipeline heating, we typically require clients to locate the water source and the plant building together. This avoids issues like secondary contamination from excessively long pipelines and difficulties in heating during winter that could affect production.
If the inlet pipe freezes, preventing water supply or reducing flow, the RO equipment must not be forcibly activated. Doing so can damage the raw water pump and RO membranes. It is essential to adhere strictly to the inlet water requirements for RO membrane elements and avoid applying pressure blindly. Generally, after our company installs equipment, our installation personnel provide systematic training. This training must be conducted with at least two persons present.
Tips for Using RO Equipment in Winter
When using RO equipment in winter, extra caution is needed. Upon starting work, first check whether the equipment shows signs of freezing. Below are tips for using RO equipment during winter:
1.Reduced Water Production: As RO equipment ages, its water production naturally decreases. However, production drops further in winter due to lower water temperatures reducing water permeability and changes in RO membrane density. Operators must be meticulous: increase the frequency and duration of backwashing for the pre-treatment system; replace precision filter cartridges more often; extend RO membrane backwashing time; and minimize sudden pressure surges. This ensures normal operation of the RO equipment.
2.Temperature Impact on Output: Typically, for every 1°C drop in water temperature, RO membrane water production decreases by about 3%. Winter production can be roughly 50% of summer output. Increased Wastewater: As production decreases, wastewater flow increases proportionally, raising the wastewater ratio. This is normal. Wastewater will decrease and production will increase once temperatures rise.
3.Freezing Prevention for Outdoor Installation: If installed outdoors, frost protection measures are essential. Lack of such measures may cause filter housings, membrane vessels, etc., to freeze and crack. If temperatures fall below 0°C (32°F), the water treatment equipment must be shut down.
Indoor Installation Requirements: For indoor installations, room temperature must be maintained above 0°C (32°F). Water expands when freezing. If ice forms, it can burst all pipes, filter housings, membrane vessels, etc., leading to leaks.
Proper maintenance ensures RO equipment withstands the cold and operates reliably even in freezing conditions.
Post time: Jul-22-2025