Flow control & restrictors (2020)

What does a flow restrictor do?

A flow limiter, also known as a flow restrictor, is a device that restricts the flow of a fluid, which is often a gas or a liquid in nature. In order to manage both high and low flow rates, some designs use single stage or multi stage orifice plates. Flow restrictor does not reduce pressure. 

Normally, the supply line between the water source and the RO membrane will have a flow restrictor installed. Having a functioning flow restrictor is crucial to having a high-performing RO system. The flow restrictor prevents the RO membrane from being damaged and increases its useful life by keeping the water pressure on it at an optimal level. In doing so, it prevents unnecessary usage of resources like water and electricity. Additionally, it ensures that the system continues to produce the best quality water possible. It is crucial that the size of your flow restrictor is accurate. Insufficient water will be produced if the flow restrictor is too small. A membrane could be damaged by a flow restrictor that is too big.

How to tell if your flow restrictor is bad?

If there is either an excessive amount of water or an insufficient amount of water (or none) going down the drain. If the restrictor becomes clogged and no water drains out, the RO unit becomes constipated, and the water quality deteriorates to the point where it stops producing water entirely.