Before performing total chlorine testing, how many minutes does the reverse osmosis (RO) machine need to run?

In the context of total chlorine testing, it is crucial to allow the reverse osmosis (RO) machine to run for an appropriate amount of time to ensure that the system is operating correctly and that the water quality is consistent. Allowing the system to run for at least 15 minutes helps to establish stable conditions by thoroughly flushing the system. This ensures that any residual chlorine is mixed well within the treated water and provides a representative sample for testing.

A 15-minute run time is commonly recommended for systems to reach equilibrium, which is essential for accurate measurement of chlorine levels. It also helps in removing any stagnant water that may be present in the lines, ensuring that what is being tested is reflective of the typical operating conditions of the RO system. Thus, allowing the machine to run for this duration is critical for reliable and valid total chlorine test results.