Water purification technologies are often confusing because different systems remove different types of impurities. The three most common purification methods used in modern purifiers are RO (Reverse Osmosis), UV (Ultraviolet) and UF (Ultrafiltration). Each technology has its own strengths and limitations. Understanding the difference between RO, UV and UF helps families choose the right purifier based on their water source, TDS level and safety needs.
RO (Reverse Osmosis)
RO is the most powerful purification technology among the three. It uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove dissolved solids, heavy metals, chemicals and salts. This makes it the only technology capable of reducing high TDS water such as borewell or tanker water. RO removes substances like sodium, fluoride, arsenic, nitrate and dissolved impurities that UV and UF cannot remove.
RO is ideal for areas where the water TDS is above 300–500 ppm. It gives clear, purified water but must be paired with a TDS controller to maintain essential minerals. Without TDS control, RO may produce extremely low TDS water that tastes flat. Systems like Homvel balance RO purification with minerals for better taste. More about this technology is available here:
https://homvel.com/
UV (Ultraviolet Purification)
UV purification does not remove dissolved solids. Instead, it uses ultraviolet light to kill bacteria, viruses and microorganisms. It is effective for microbiological purification but cannot remove chemicals, salts, metals or TDS. UV is suitable for areas where the water comes from a municipal supply with low TDS but may contain germs.
UV systems are fast, require low maintenance and do not alter taste. But UV alone cannot make hard or salty water safe because dissolved impurities remain untouched.
UF (Ultrafiltration)
UF uses a fine membrane to remove bacteria, cysts, dirt and suspended particles. Like UV, UF does not remove dissolved solids. It is useful when water contains sediment or turbidity but has low TDS. UF can work without electricity, unlike UV and RO.
UF is commonly used in areas where the water is soft but may carry physical impurities. When paired with UV, it improves microbiological safety. When paired with RO, it helps protect the RO membrane by removing larger particles early in the process.
Which One Should You Choose?
Your water source decides which technology you need:
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High TDS (salty/hard water, borewell water) → RO is essential
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Low TDS but germ contamination (municipal water) → UV is suitable
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Dirty/turbid water with visible particles → UF helps remove sediments
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Mixed or unknown water quality → RO + UV + UF combination offers full protection
Most Indian households benefit from a combination system, especially areas where TDS changes frequently.
Final Thought
RO, UV and UF each solve different purification challenges. RO removes dissolved solids, UV kills microorganisms, and UF removes suspended particles. The right choice depends on your water source — and a purifier that combines these technologies ensures complete protection and balanced water quality.