New RO Membrane

[JRR1285]

I am hoping for some help with deciding on a new RO membrane.

I have two candidates right now.

1. Dow Filmtec 100 GPD RO Membrane (TW30-1812-100HR)

I found a kit on ebay for the above membrane from a reputable seller that comes with a new flow restrictor for $34.99.

2. Axeon TF-1812-150

This is the same rating as what was in my cheap ebay RODI unit(150GPD). I would also need to find the proper flow restrictor to pair with it (my unit has the wrong flow restrictor (450ml/min) on it according to my research). Can be had on Amazon for just shy of $39.00

Both have 98% rejection rates but the Dow can operate at a lower pressure of 50 psi while the Axeon needs 65 psi. I don't know what my pressure is leading into the RO housing.


My RODI unit was a cheap eBay unit from purewaterclub. It came with 5 micron sediment and carbon blocks that I have replaced with 1 micron filters as of yesterday. I pulled out my RO membrane and it looked like it had some rust colored staining on it and the housing. I kept the same system with no new filters for 2 years so I am assuming the membrane is shot from not maintaining the filters.

I also have a new refillable DI cartridge from BRS with a new housing to replace the small disposable ones I have. I don't want to add it to the system without replacing the RO membrane.

Thanks in advance for any help.

 

[outy]

I am assuming the membrane is shot from not maintaining the filters.



.

Check the TDS to determine if its bad or not. Looks mean nothing

 

[alton]

read this and then go buy a pre tested membrane from a qualified seller/sponsor
http://spectrapure.com/FILTERS-MEMBRANES-RESIN/RO-MEMBRANES-FLOW-RESTRICTORS

 

[JRR1285]

Thank you for the additional info.

I decided to buy a 75 GPD unit with a 99% rejection rate. I should use less DI that way. Went with a Dow Filmtec membrane with a new restrictor. Should have it later this week.

New TDS meter will be on the way too and I can compare it to my old RO membrane.

 

[shifty51008]

I agree with the hand tested membranes. I use the maxro membrane from buckeye and it works great. Spectrapure is another good place

 

[trmiv]

I agree with the hand tested membranes. I use the maxro membrane from buckeye and it works great. Spectrapure is another good place

Yep. I had this choice to make recently between rolling the dice on a random membrane or a good tested membrane. Went with the Spectraselect Plus from Spectrapure. It wasn't much more than a regular membrane and I can count on the rejection rate. Works great. Buckeye's stuff is great as well. If the cost difference was huge, I'd stick with a regular untested, but I paid like $20 more for the tested 99% rate one. With the DI savings thats well worth it in the long run.