← Technology WikiRO Booster Pump
An RO booster pump raises feed pressure to the 60–100 PSI that RO membranes need — without it, rejection rates collapse and the membrane fouls prematurely.
How it works
- Typical residential pumps: 24V DC diaphragm pumps, 50–100 GPD or 200–800 GPD classes.
- A pressure switch or controller starts/stops the pump with demand; many systems add auto-flush.
- Undersized pump = low rejection + short membrane life. Oversized pump = noise + wasted energy.
- 24V low-voltage design keeps the system safe for under-sink installation.
Key specifications
| Voltage (typical) | 24V DC |
| Pressure range | 60–100 PSI output |
| Match to | Membrane GPD rating |
| Noise (typical) | 45–55 dB |
What buyers and QC should check
- Always match pump class to membrane GPD — this is the #1 sizing mistake in OEM specs.
- For QC: run the pump 30+ minutes and check for overheating and pressure stability, not just that it runs.
- Ask for the pump's pressure curve, not just max pressure.
Free one-page QC checklist (PDF)
The buyer checks from this entry, condensed for the factory floor or the inspection. No signup needed.
Download free PDF checklistCommon questions
Does every RO system need a booster pump?
If feed pressure is reliably above ~60 PSI, some systems work without one. Below that — common in high-rise buildings and well systems — a pump is mandatory for decent rejection.
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