Permeate pumps for RO systems?

[Ray]

Originally Posted by MateoinLosAngeles

Thanks so much Ray, this is really helpful.

So basically there's no way to increase the output of RO water from the tank using either of those methods.

- A permeate pump could technically reduce the "amount" of flush water by evening the flow of RO water into the tank, making the process take less time, but it won't increase output from the tank or increase GPD.

Correct

- A booster pump placed before the system, can increase the GPD of the system, and perhaps reduce the overall water consumption by also reducing the time that the tank will take to fill up. It won't increase output from tank either.

Yes, a booster increases the generation of pure water, but the flow restrictor keep the flush water flow unchanged, thereby increasing the efficiency.

Did I get that right? Is there a pump that can be installed from the tank to speed up the flow from tank to faucet?

I would imagine having the booster pump before the system will speed up the time that the tank takes to be filled. If a pump is installed to empty the tank faster (increasing the flow from the tank), having both systems could "even out" the flow?

The water output of a residential system is propelled by the air pressure below a rubber membrane in the tank, which is limited. Add to that the fact that delivery from the tank is typically 1/4" or 3/8" tubing, and you can see why it's limited, but for the intended purpose, cooking and drinking, it's not an issue.

Folks using RO for irrigation typically have the system deliver water through a float valve into a vented tank. When the tank is full, the float valve closes, increasing the backpressure to the system and the hydraulic cutoff stops all flow. When water is used, it opens again and reills the tank.

Delivery from the tank for irrigation is then done with a separate pump and (often) garden hose.