Overview
This article defines the minimum specifications and performance requirements a reverse osmosis (RO) system must meet to be installed for use with a Standup 2.0 machine.
While the Standup 2.0 can work with RO systems that meet the minimum requirements, we recommend installation without additional upstream filtration systems. We’ve provided these minimum guidelines to support customers still interested in using an RO system.
About Bevi’s Recommendation
RO systems add complexity, excessively waste water, and can reduce flow rate, slowing beverage pours and inconveniencing users, while also requiring extra maintenance and a dedicated drain.
Because RO systems remove or reduce total dissolved solids (TDS) from the water, some users may also notice slight differences in carbonation and taste of their beverages.
It's important to note that Bevi machines already provide built-in advanced filtration using our recommended 3M HF20-I high-flow carbon filter, reliably removing particulates down to 0.2 microns while delivering great performance and taste without the need for additional systems.
What is Reverse Osmosis Filtration?
- Reverse Osmosis (RO) is a purification process that pushes water through a special filter at a high pressure. It requires separate equipment, extra space, and relies on a dedicated drain.
- RO is popular because it produces very pure water by removing almost all particulates and minerals. It’s effective at removing a wide range of contaminants, including heavy metals and fluoride.
- However, RO systems generate a significant amount of “reject” (or waste) water during this process; for every treated gallon of water, a typical point-of-use RO system can generate up to five or more gallons of reject water (epa.gov).
Reverse Osmosis System Requirements
The RO system's outlet can be treated as equivalent to the water supply wall outlet assessed during a standard site inspection check.
At a high level, the RO system is expected to meet the minimum flow rate and pressure requirements necessary for optimal machine performance.
- If the existing RO system cannot meet the requirements listed below, it should not be used as a water source for the Standup 2.0.
- Failure to meet these requirements will negatively impact machine performance, causing issues like interrupted or slow flow rate and low dispense pressure, resulting in a poor user experience.
Parameter | Acceptable Value |
---|---|
Flow Rate (LPM) | 2.5+ |
Pressure (psi) | 40 – 100 psi |
TDS in water | N/A |
Tank Refill Flow Rate (GPM) | > 0.5 gpm |
External Tank Volume @ >0.5GPM (Gallons) | 2 gallons |
Tank Refill Flow Rate (GPM) | < 0.5 gpm |
External Tank Volume @ <0.5GPM (Gallons) | 5 gallons |
Buffer Tank
A buffer tank is recommended between the RO system outlet and the Bevi Standup 2.0.
- This is helpful in stabilizing flow rate and pressure fluctuations during dispense activity.
- Bevi recommends a minimum of a 2 gallon buffer tank for most locations, but for RO systems with a slower output flow rate, a 5 gallon tank may be required.
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If the RO system can consistently meet the minimum required flow and pressure for the Standup 2.0, a buffer tank may not be necessary.
- This would typically apply to larger whole-building RO systems.
Total Dissolved Solids
- Currently, there is no minimum or maximum requirement for total dissolved solids (TDS) in the water.