Draining a reverse osmosis (RO) system typically refers to emptying the water from its storage tank. This is often done for maintenance, sanitation, or during system relocation. The process is straightforward and involves releasing the pressurized water from the tank.
Emptying Your RO Storage Tank
The primary method for draining the water from your RO storage tank involves using the system's faucet.
Follow these steps:
- Open the RO Faucet: Locate the dedicated RO faucet, usually installed on your kitchen sink. Open it completely to allow water to flow out.
- Allow Water to Flow: Let the water run from the faucet. Since the water in the tank is under pressure (due to an air bladder inside), it will continue to flow even if the main water supply to the RO system is off.
How to Know When the Tank is Empty
According to the provided reference, you can determine when your tank is empty using simple indicators:
- Flow Stops: Your tank is considered empty "When no water is coming out of your faucet." The flow will significantly reduce and eventually stop or become a slow drip once the tank pressure is depleted and all stored water is expelled.
- Check by Lifting: You can also "check whether your tank is empty simply lift" it. An empty RO tank is much lighter than a full one, making this a practical way to confirm it's drained.
Next Steps: Repressurizing
After draining the water from the tank, a common step during RO tank maintenance is checking and adjusting the tank's air pressure (repressurizing). The reference notes that "You can use a mechanical pump or a bike pump. For this" repressurizing process. This is done via the Schrader valve, typically located on the bottom or side of the tank, after all water has been drained.
By following these steps, you can effectively drain the water from your RO storage tank as described in the reference.
