FAQ
General Questions
What exactly is ultrapure water?
This is water containing fewer than 10 mineral ions per million (TDS <10 ppm). By comparison, tap water contains 200–500 ppm of dissolved minerals.
Ultra-pure water = No visible residue after drying.
Why is ultrapure water needed for cleaning?
Minerals dissolved in tap water leave white streaks that dry on windows. With ultrapure water, there are no minerals, so there are no streaks. This is especially useful for windows, mirrors, and glossy tiles.
Is ultra-pure water safe to drink?
Technically, yes, but it’s not recommended for everyday use. Ultra-pure water lacks minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which are essential for good health. This water is designed for professional applications, not for drinking.
Questions about RO technology
How exactly does reverse osmosis (RO) work?
A semipermeable membrane allows water molecules to pass through but blocks salts, minerals, and contaminants. Pressure (4–15 bar) forces the water through. The result: 15–30% pure water, with 70–85% of the water discarded as waste.
Why does RO technology «waste» so much water?
That’s the trade-off with this technology. To produce one (1) liter of ultra-pure water, three (3) to seven (7) liters of source water must be treated. This is normal and unavoidable. Modern systems, such as the Little Giant V8, optimize this ratio.
What does the abbreviation «TDS» stand for?
TDS stands for “Total Dissolved Solids.” It is a measurement, in ppm (parts per million), of all the minerals dissolved in water.
Tap water: 200–500 ppm | RO water: 10–50 ppm | RO/DI water: < 10 ppm
Is RO technology alone sufficient?
For basic cleaning, yes. But for premium applications such as high-end windows and to achieve perfect results, no.
RO + DI is the industry standard.
Questions about DI technology
How does deionization (DI) work?
DI resin is loaded with ions. When water passes through it, the resin exchanges its ions for the mineral ions in the water. The result: ultra-pure water, but the resin is spent and needs to be replaced.
How long does a DI cartridge last?
Between three (3) and six (6) months, depending on:
- The volume of water treated per day
- The purity of the incoming water
- The quality of the resin
Minor operation = Six (6) months
Major operation = Three (3) months
How can I tell if the DI cartridge is worn out?
Two signs :
- The TDS level rises gradually and can be measured with a TDS meter.
- Streaks reappear on the windows, and the water becomes cloudy again.
Most users change them as a precaution about every three (3) to four (4) months.
What kind of water does DI technology work with on its own?
Use only pre-filtered water, such as municipal water or water that has already been filtered. Never use untreated spring water from wells, rivers, ponds, etc. Why? Because the resin clogs up too quickly with sediment and particles.
Questions about our systems
What's the difference between DI Cart and EcoCart?
When should you switch to RO/DI?
When :
- You use raw spring water (non-municipal)
- Your volume is increasing, and you need higher flow rate
- You clean thoroughly (every day)
- You are looking for the best possible quality
Little Giant RO/DI = Good value for money
HydroBox Ultra = Maximum power
The difference between the Little Giant and the HydroBox Ultra?
Little Giant | RO + DI, V8 technology, high flow rate, suitable for medium to high volumes
HydroBox Ultra | RO + DI, maximum capacity, maximum flow rate, ideal for large buildings and 24/7 heavy-duty use
Tip | Little Giant is sufficient for 90% of professional cleaners.
How do I figure out which system is right for me?
Ask you these questions :
1 | Source water: Municipal or untreated spring water?
- Municipal water : DI alone is sufficient (EcoCart)
- Untreated spring water : RO/DI (Little Giant ou HydroBox)
2 | Daily Volume :
- < 100 liters per day : DI Cart
- 100–500 liters per day : EcoCart or Little Giant
- > 500 liters per day : Little Giant ou HydroBox
3 | Budget :
- Minimal: DI Cart
- Optimal: EcoCart
- Premium: Little Giant
- Maximum: HydroBox
Questions about operating practices
How do I test the purity of the water?
Buy a portable TDS meter (around $20 to $40). It measures in ppm. Target: < 10 ppm for ultrapure water. You can also use an electrical conductivity meter.
Where does the wastewater go?
In a standard sewer system. It's just water—there's nothing toxic in it. Just check with your local authorities to see if there are any restrictions.
Can the wastewater be recycled?
Technically, yes, but it's complicated. The discharged water, known as «reject water», contains a lot of minerals. It could be used for irrigation, but not for professional cleaning.
What kind of maintenance does an RO/DI system require?
- Monthly: Check connections; ensure there are no leaks
- Every three (3) to six (6) months: Replace the DI cartridge
- Every year or every two (2) years: Replace the RO pre-filters (depending on usage)
- Every year: Full service recommended
What is the actual operating cost per liter?
Approximately $0.10 to $0.30 per liter, including:
- Replacement of the DI cartridge (~$50–100 every 3–6 months)
- Municipal water used
- Electricity (minimal)
For a small operation: budget of ~$30 to $50 per month.
For a large one: ~$100 to $200 per month
Objections/ROI Questions
Isn't that cheap for just filtered water?
You’re not paying for water — You’re paying for zero residue.
That means :
- Zero customer calls regarding traces
- Zero free touch-ups
- Zero damage to one’s reputation
- Ability to charge an additional $10 to $20 per service
The investment pays for itself in two (2) to three (3) months.
What is the actual «ROI»?
Investment
(e.g., EcoCart for $1,899)
Cost per month: ~$50 to $80 (filters + water)
Additional income: $15 per shift × two (2) shifts per week × four (4) weeks = $120 per month
Payback : $1,899 ÷ ($120 - $80) = ~47 months (with EcoCart, the cost adds up quickly)
With a more expensive system used on a daily basis? ROI in three (3) to six (6) months.
Will I really be able to charge more?
Yes, as long as you let your customers know.
Sample presentation:
«We now use ultra-pure RO/DI water. Your windows will be spotless—two (2) week guarantee. Additional charge: $15.»
Customers are more receptive when they understand the value.
Comparisons with other solutions Questions
Why not just use distilled water from the store?
- Too expensive per liter (~$1–$2/liter)
- Complex logistics
- Quality varies by brand
- Not ideal for large volumes
Ultra-pure water in a system = much lower costs after the first year.
Are charcoal filters enough?
No.
A charcoal filter:
- Removes chlorine and odors
- Reduces sediment
- But leave all the dissolved minerals intact
Result: Still some residue. Not comparable to RO/DI.
Investing in RO/DI vs. sticking with tap water
Stick with tap water if :
- You do basic cleaning (outdoors, patios)
- Your customers don't care about traces
Switch to RO/DI technology if:
- You provide high-end cleaning services (windows, offices, retail stores)
- You want to differentiate your service
- You are targeting a Premium clientele