Water treatment in commercial kitchens - the use of permeate
In modern commercial kitchens, water quality plays a decisive role - both for the proper functioning of technical appliances and for the quality of the food and drinks prepared. The targeted treatment of water is therefore not only a question of efficiency, but also of hygiene, taste and economy. Limescale-free and purified water protects machines from deposits, extends their service life and ensures optimum dishwashing results. In addition, treated water meets the high hygiene requirements in the food sector and contributes to compliance with legal standards.
Why water treatment is necessary
Tap water contains varying concentrations of minerals, particularly calcium and magnesium, depending on the region. These cause limescale deposits in appliances such as steam cookers, coffee machines and dishwashers. This results in higher energy consumption, more frequent maintenance intervals and a shorter appliance service life. In addition, untreated water can leave behind residues that affect the taste, appearance and quality of food and drinks.
Water treatment in commercial kitchens therefore plays a central role in hygiene, appliance protection and product quality. In this context, permeate is used specifically to provide purified water that meets the above-mentioned requirements - in particular to prevent limescale deposits and rinsing residues.
The objectives of water treatment in commercial kitchens can be summarized as follows:
- Avoiding limescale in appliances (e.g. combi-steamers, dishwashers, coffee machines)
- Stain-free cleaning of dishes, glasses, cutlery
- Protection of appliances against corrosion, malfunctions and expensive repairs
- Optimization of cleaning agents and detergents (lower consumption + environmental protection)
- Compliance with hygiene standards
Reach your goal with permeate: water in its purest form for the highest kitchen standards
Permeate is the result of reverse osmosis - a particularly effective water treatment process. Almost all dissolved salts, minerals, germs and organic substances are removed from the water. The permeate obtained in this way meets the highest hygiene requirements and is ideal for use in commercial kitchens. It reliably protects appliances from limescale and salt deposits, thereby reducing energy consumption and minimizing cleaning effort. At the same time, it contributes to the consistently high quality of food and beverages, as it is free from taste- and color-altering substances. Permeate not only meets the standards of modern commercial kitchen technology, it optimizes them.
Use of permeate in commercial kitchens
- Generation via reverse osmosis systems
- Use for final rinse water → prevents dripping residues
- Water for combi-steamers & hot water appliances → no limescale formation in pipes, valves or nozzles
- Drinking water treatment with problematic raw water quality (e.g. high nitrate or salt content)
Advantages of using permeate
- No re-polishing of glasses or cutlery
- Less maintenance work on machines
- Consistent quality of the rinsing process
- Extended service life of appliances
- Lower operating costs due to reduced use of chemicals and energy, thus contributing to environmental protection
In summary, permeate is sufficient for use in commercial kitchens because it meets the key quality requirements - without the higher costs and chemical requirements of demineralized water. Here are the main reasons:
1. Sufficient desalination for limescale-free water
- Permeate has a low salt content (conductivity usually < 30 µS/cm)
- This is sufficient to effectively prevent limescale deposits in dishwashers, combi-steamers or coffee machines
2. Residue-free rinsing
- Due to the low conductivity, there are no drip marks or stains on glasses and cutlery
- No manual polishing necessary → time and personnel savings
3. Appliance protection with little effort
- Prevents calcification and corrosion on heating rods, nozzles and valves
- Protects the technology - no regeneration necessary, no chemicals required
4. Economically viable
- Permeate is inexpensive to produce (no ion exchange required)
- Lower consumption of energy and cleaning agents in the kitchen
5. Perfect balance between quality and cost
- Deionized water would be oversized - permeate offers the ideal compromise between purity and economy
In short: Permeate offers exactly the water quality that commercial kitchens need - no more, but also no less.
But when is permeate no longer sufficient for the operation of commercial kitchens?
The use of permeate in commercial kitchens is no longer possible if the water purity requirements exceed what permeate can provide - or if certain technical or hygiene problems arise. Here is a list of the most important cases:
1. High residual conductivity
- If the reverse osmosis is not working optimally (e.g. membrane wear), the conductivity increases. This can lead to limescale stains or deposits on dishes.
2. Microbiological contamination
- Improper storage or stagnation in the pipes can cause biofilm to form. This is particularly critical for high hygiene standards or water storage.
3. Use in very sensitive areas
- E.g. in hospital kitchens, rehabilitation clinics or laboratory kitchens
- Deionized water may be required instead of permeate in order to reliably exclude all ionic residues.
4. Faulty system or maintenance
- Defective or poorly maintained reverse osmosis systems can lead to breakthroughs.
- Then the "permeate" suddenly contains salts again - without it being immediately noticeable.
5. Incompatible device requirements
- Some manufacturers explicitly specify deionized water (e.g. for sensitive steam modules).
- In such cases, permeate is insufficient or even harmful.
It can be stated that permeate is generally sufficient for the operation of commercial kitchens - except:
- When absolute hygienic purity is required
- If technical specifications are stricter
- Or if the system is not operated properly
Permeate therefore offers numerous advantages in water treatment - above all thanks to its balanced combination of purity, economy and versatility.
Conclusion
Investing in professional water treatment pays off several times over in commercial kitchens: It improves product quality, protects the technology, saves costs and supports compliance with legal requirements. The use of permeate is a particularly efficient solution that meets the requirements of modern kitchen management in every respect.
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Solutions for permeate water treatment plants
NeoPermIon permeate cabinet system – 90 l/h incl. Aqua-Stop, sensor and drip trays
Product number:
882045
For applications that do not require deionised water, we offer a modified version of our cabinet system that is capable of producing permeate. Unlike the deionised water treatment system, the permeate cabinet system consists of only one cabinet. Water treatment involves pre-filtration, a softening system, a reverse osmosis system with a 100-litre permeate tank including a water seal and sterile filter, and a pressure booster station. If required, a brine lifting system can also be integrated into the first cabinet. The installed components are listed again below:
Cabinet
Filter system (pre-filter & activated carbon filter)
Water softener
Reverse osmosis system
Permeate tank 100 litres (volume can be adjusted)
Pressure booster station
Brine lifting system (optional)
System performance:
Depending on the system design, 90 l, 150 l, 230 l or 300 l of permeate can be produced per hour.
The capacity of the permeate tank is adjustable, but may need to be positioned outside the cabinet due to its larger dimensions.
Shut-off via system separator
To protect the drinking water network from contamination by treated water or changes in the natural composition of the drinking water fed into the system as a result of technical treatment, the installation of a system separator is mandatory. The system has an integrated system separator (type BA), which is located directly behind the Aqua-Stop of the water connection.
Aqua-Stop (solenoid valve shut-off)
An Aqua-Stop is a safety mechanism used in water supply systems to stop or limit the flow of water in the event of a malfunction or leak. It is usually an automatic shut-off mechanism that closes the water supply valve to prevent major water damage.
A solenoid valve is a type of shut-off valve that is controlled by the use of an electromagnetic field. In water treatment, a solenoid valve is used to shut off or regulate the flow of water. The solenoid valve consists of an electromagnetic coil system and a valve mechanism. Applying an electrical voltage to the coil generates a magnetic field that influences the valve mechanism. Depending on the application, the solenoid valve can be opened or closed to allow or block the flow of water. In combination, additional safety and control over the water flow can be ensured.
The Aqua-Stop is located directly behind the main water connection of the system as the first element. The associated solenoid valve is coupled with two sensors, one of which continuously monitors the base trays of the two cabinet systems.
Filter system
The pre-filter section is a filter unit consisting of a pre-filter and an activated carbon filter. Its main purpose is to protect downstream softening and osmosis systems, which could be damaged by impurities in the water.
Water softener
A water softener is used to remove excess minerals, especially calcium and magnesium ions, which are responsible for the hardness of the water. It works on the basis of an ion exchange process.
Reverse osmosis
Reverse osmosis reverses the natural osmotic process. In this process, the softened water is forced through a membrane under pressure, whereby the membrane only allows water molecules and very small molecules to pass through and retains larger particles such as salts, bacteria, viruses and other impurities.
Permeate tank
A round tank offers advantages in terms of stability, cleaning, energy efficiency and space utilisation, making it the preferred choice for storing and treating water in treatment plants. Its uniform shape and flow characteristics ensure that the water is treated and stored efficiently.
Pressure boosting station
A pressure boosting station is used to continuously supply the connected consumers with the required operating pressure.
Cabinet systems
Only a minimum floor space of 0.80 m x 1.40 m is required to install this module from HeylNeomeris. The module consists of a cabinet that is 0.80 m wide and 0.60 m deep. It is possible to use double doors, which, due to the depth of 60 cm and a double door with a dimension of 40 cm, results in a minimum room depth of 1 m.
The cabinets used are made of sturdy sheet steel modules and have a high-quality surface coating.
Wastewater disposal via brine lifting unit (optional)
As an optional component, the treatment plant can be expanded to include an integrated wastewater lifting unit, which transports the generated and collected wastewater into the sewer system. The main wastewater flows here are the wastewater from the regeneration of the softening plant and the concentrate from the reverse osmosis process.
Collection tray
The integrated collection tray in the cabinet serves to collect potential leaks or escaping liquids that could escape from the pipes or components. This is particularly important, for example, in industrial applications or in environments where sensitive electronic equipment or chemicals are stored.
€16,247.50*
NeoPermIon Permeate Cabinet System - 150 l/h incl. Aqua-Stop, sensor and drip trays
Product number:
882046
For applications that do not require deionized water, we offer a customized version of our cabinet system that is capable of producing permeate. Unlike the deionized water treatment system, the permeate cabinet system consists of only one cabinet. Water treatment is carried out using a pre-filter, a water softener, a reverse osmosis system with a 100-liter permeate tank including a water seal and sterile filter, and a pressure booster station. If required, a brine lifting system can also be integrated into the first cabinet. The installed components are listed again below:
Cabinet
Filter system (pre-filter & activated carbon filter)
Softening system
Reverse osmosis system
100-liter permeate tank (volume can be adjusted)
Pressure booster station
Brine lifting system (optional)
System performance:
Depending on the system design, 90 l, 150 l, 230 l, or 300 l of permeate can be produced per hour.
The capacity of the permeate tank is adjustable, but may need to be positioned outside the cabinet due to its larger dimensions.
Shut-off via system separator
To protect the drinking water network from contamination by treated water or changes in the natural composition of the drinking water fed into the system as a result of technical treatment, the installation of a system separator is mandatory. The system has an integrated system separator (type BA), which is located directly behind the Aqua-Stop of the water connection.
Aqua-Stop (solenoid valve shut-off)
An Aqua-Stop is a safety mechanism used in water supply systems to stop or limit the flow of water in the event of a malfunction or leak. It is usually an automatic shut-off mechanism that closes the water supply valve to prevent major water damage.
A solenoid valve is a type of shut-off valve that is controlled by the use of an electromagnetic field. In water treatment, a solenoid valve is used to shut off or regulate the flow of water. The solenoid valve consists of an electromagnetic coil system and a valve mechanism. Applying an electrical voltage to the coil generates a magnetic field that influences the valve mechanism. Depending on the application, the solenoid valve can be opened or closed to allow or block the flow of water. In combination, additional safety and control over the water flow can be ensured.
The Aqua-Stop is located directly behind the main water connection of the system as the first element. The associated solenoid valve is coupled with two sensors, one of which continuously monitors the base trays of the two cabinet systems.
Filter system
The pre-filter section is a filter unit consisting of a pre-filter and an activated carbon filter. Its main purpose is to protect downstream softening and osmosis systems, which could be damaged by impurities in the water.
Water softener
A water softener is used to remove excess minerals, especially calcium and magnesium ions, which are responsible for the hardness of the water. It works on the basis of an ion exchange process.
Reverse osmosis
Reverse osmosis reverses the natural osmotic process. In this process, the softened water is forced through a membrane under pressure, whereby the membrane only allows water molecules and very small molecules to pass through and retains larger particles such as salts, bacteria, viruses, and other impurities.
Permeate tank
A round tank offers advantages in terms of stability, cleaning, energy efficiency, and space utilization, making it the preferred choice for storing and treating water in treatment plants. Its uniform shape and flow characteristics ensure that water is treated and stored efficiently.
Pressure boosting station
A pressure boosting station is used to continuously supply the connected consumers with the required operating pressure.
Cabinet systems
Only a minimum floor space of 0.80 m x 1.40 m is required to install this module from HeylNeomeris. The module consists of a cabinet that is 0.80 m wide and 0.60 m deep. It is possible to use double doors, which, due to the depth of 60 cm and a double door with a dimension of 40 cm, results in a minimum room depth of 1 m.
The cabinets used are made of sturdy sheet steel modules and have a high-quality surface coating.
Wastewater disposal via brine lifting unit (optional)
As an optional component, the treatment plant can be expanded to include an integrated wastewater lifting unit, which transports the generated and collected wastewater into the sewer system. The main wastewater flows here are the wastewater from the regeneration of the softening plant and the concentrate from the reverse osmosis process.
Collection tray
The integrated collection tray in the cabinet serves to collect potential leaks or escaping liquids that could escape from the pipes or components. This is particularly important, for example, in industrial applications or in environments where sensitive electronic equipment or chemicals are stored.
€16,399.10*
NeoPermIon permeate cabinet system – 230 l/h incl. Aqua-Stop, sensor and drip trays
Product number:
882047
For applications that do not require deionised water, we offer a modified version of our cabinet system that is capable of producing permeate. Unlike the deionised water treatment system, the permeate cabinet system consists of only one cabinet. Water treatment involves pre-filtration, a softening system, a reverse osmosis system with a 100-litre permeate tank including a water seal and sterile filter, and a pressure booster station. If required, a brine lifting system can also be integrated into the first cabinet. The installed components are listed again below:
Cabinet
Filter system (pre-filter & activated carbon filter)
Water softener
Reverse osmosis system
Permeate tank 100 litres (volume can be adjusted)
Pressure booster station
Brine lifting system (optional)
System performance:
Depending on the system design, 90 l, 150 l, 230 l or 300 l of permeate can be produced per hour.
The capacity of the permeate tank is adjustable, but may need to be positioned outside the cabinet due to its larger dimensions.
Shut-off via system separator
To protect the drinking water network from contamination by treated water or changes in the natural composition of the drinking water fed into the system as a result of technical treatment, the installation of a system separator is mandatory. The system has an integrated system separator (type BA), which is located directly behind the Aqua-Stop of the water connection.
Aqua-Stop (solenoid valve shut-off)
An Aqua-Stop is a safety mechanism used in water supply systems to stop or limit the flow of water in the event of a malfunction or leak. It is usually an automatic shut-off mechanism that closes the water supply valve to prevent major water damage.
A solenoid valve is a type of shut-off valve that is controlled by the use of an electromagnetic field. In water treatment, a solenoid valve is used to shut off or regulate the flow of water. The solenoid valve consists of an electromagnetic coil system and a valve mechanism. Applying an electrical voltage to the coil generates a magnetic field that influences the valve mechanism. Depending on the application, the solenoid valve can be opened or closed to allow or block the flow of water. In combination, additional safety and control over the water flow can be ensured.
The Aqua-Stop is located directly behind the main water connection of the system as the first element. The associated solenoid valve is coupled with two sensors, one of which continuously monitors the base trays of the two cabinet systems.
Filter system
The pre-filter section is a filter unit consisting of a pre-filter and an activated carbon filter. Its main purpose is to protect downstream softening and osmosis systems, which could be damaged by impurities in the water.
Water softener
A water softener is used to remove excess minerals, especially calcium and magnesium ions, which are responsible for the hardness of the water. It works on the basis of an ion exchange process.
Reverse osmosis
Reverse osmosis reverses the natural osmotic process. In this process, the softened water is forced through a membrane under pressure, whereby the membrane only allows water molecules and very small molecules to pass through and retains larger particles such as salts, bacteria, viruses and other impurities.
Permeate tank
A round tank offers advantages in terms of stability, cleaning, energy efficiency and space utilisation, making it the preferred choice for storing and treating water in treatment plants. Its uniform shape and flow characteristics ensure that the water is treated and stored efficiently.
Pressure boosting station
A pressure boosting station is used to continuously supply the connected consumers with the required operating pressure.
Cabinet systems
Only a minimum floor space of 0.80 m x 1.40 m is required to install this module from HeylNeomeris. The module consists of a cabinet that is 0.80 m wide and 0.60 m deep. It is possible to use double doors, which, due to the depth of 60 cm and a double door with a dimension of 40 cm, results in a minimum room depth of 1 m.
The cabinets used are made of sturdy sheet steel modules and have a high-quality surface coating.
Wastewater disposal via brine lifting unit (optional)
As an optional component, the treatment plant can be expanded to include an integrated wastewater lifting unit, which transports the generated and collected wastewater into the sewer system. The main wastewater flows here are the wastewater from the regeneration of the softening plant and the concentrate from the reverse osmosis process.
Collection tray
The integrated collection tray in the cabinet serves to collect potential leaks or escaping liquids that could escape from the pipes or components. This is particularly important, for example, in industrial applications or in environments where sensitive electronic equipment or chemicals are stored.
€16,782.90*
NeoPermIon Permeate Cabinet System - 300 l/h incl. Aqua-Stop, sensor and drip trays
Product number:
882048
For applications that do not require deionised water, we offer a modified version of our cabinet system that is capable of producing permeate. Unlike the deionised water treatment system, the permeate cabinet system consists of only one cabinet. Water treatment involves pre-filtration, a softening system, a reverse osmosis system with a 100-litre permeate tank including a water seal and sterile filter, and a pressure booster station. If required, a brine lifting system can also be integrated into the first cabinet. The installed components are listed again below:
Cabinet
Filter system (pre-filter & activated carbon filter)
Water softener
Reverse osmosis system
Permeate tank 100 litres (volume can be adjusted)
Pressure booster station
Brine lifting system (optional)
System performance:
Depending on the system design, 90 l, 150 l, 230 l or 300 l of permeate can be produced per hour.
The capacity of the permeate tank is adjustable, but may need to be positioned outside the cabinet due to its larger dimensions.
Shut-off via system separator
To protect the drinking water network from contamination by treated water or changes in the natural composition of the drinking water fed into the system as a result of technical treatment, the installation of a system separator is mandatory. The system has an integrated system separator (type BA), which is located directly behind the Aqua-Stop of the water connection.
Aqua-Stop (solenoid valve shut-off)
An Aqua-Stop is a safety mechanism used in water supply systems to stop or limit the flow of water in the event of a malfunction or leak. It is usually an automatic shut-off mechanism that closes the water supply valve to prevent major water damage.
A solenoid valve is a type of shut-off valve that is controlled by the use of an electromagnetic field. In water treatment, a solenoid valve is used to shut off or regulate the flow of water. The solenoid valve consists of an electromagnetic coil system and a valve mechanism. Applying an electrical voltage to the coil generates a magnetic field that influences the valve mechanism. Depending on the application, the solenoid valve can be opened or closed to allow or block the flow of water. In combination, additional safety and control over the water flow can be ensured.
The Aqua-Stop is located directly behind the main water connection of the system as the first element. The associated solenoid valve is coupled with two sensors, one of which continuously monitors the base trays of the two cabinet systems.
Filter system
The pre-filter section is a filter unit consisting of a pre-filter and an activated carbon filter. Its main purpose is to protect downstream softening and osmosis systems, which could be damaged by impurities in the water.
Water softener
A water softener is used to remove excess minerals, especially calcium and magnesium ions, which are responsible for the hardness of the water. It works on the basis of an ion exchange process.
Reverse osmosis
Reverse osmosis reverses the natural osmotic process. In this process, the softened water is forced through a membrane under pressure, whereby the membrane only allows water molecules and very small molecules to pass through and retains larger particles such as salts, bacteria, viruses and other impurities.
Permeate tank
A round tank offers advantages in terms of stability, cleaning, energy efficiency and space utilisation, making it the preferred choice for storing and treating water in treatment plants. Its uniform shape and flow characteristics ensure that the water is treated and stored efficiently.
Pressure boosting station
A pressure boosting station is used to continuously supply the connected consumers with the required operating pressure.
Cabinet systems
Only a minimum floor space of 0.80 m x 1.40 m is required to install this module from HeylNeomeris. The module consists of a cabinet that is 0.80 m wide and 0.60 m deep. It is possible to use double doors, which, due to the depth of 60 cm and a double door with a dimension of 40 cm, results in a minimum room depth of 1 m.
The cabinets used are made of sturdy sheet steel modules and have a high-quality surface coating.
Wastewater disposal via brine lifting unit (optional)
As an optional component, the treatment plant can be expanded to include an integrated wastewater lifting unit, which transports the generated and collected wastewater into the sewer system. The main wastewater flows here are the wastewater from the regeneration of the softening plant and the concentrate from the reverse osmosis process.
Collection tray
The integrated collection tray in the cabinet serves to collect potential leaks or escaping liquids that could escape from the pipes or components. This is particularly important, for example, in industrial applications or in environments where sensitive electronic equipment or chemicals are stored.
€17,959.90*
Pressure boosting station with 60 l permeate dispenser for NeoPermIon permeate cabinet system
Product number:
882049
The pressure booster station with permeate storage tank for the NeoPermlon permeate cabinet system is designed to supply connected consumers with the required amount of water at sufficient pressure. In modern commercial kitchens, these include steam cookers, coffee machines and dishwashers. The pressure boost ensures that these appliances are supplied with water at a pressure corresponding to the demand without interruption.
€2,180.00*
Pressure boosting station with 100 l permeate dispenser for NeoPermIon permeate cabinet system
Product number:
882050
The pressure booster station with permeate storage tank for the NeoPermlon permeate cabinet system has the task of supplying the required amount of water at sufficient pressure to the connected consumers. These consumers in modern commercial kitchens include steam cookers, coffee machines and dishwashers. The pressure increase ensures that these appliances are constantly supplied with the required water, while at the same time optimising the pressure conditions to the consumption requirements.
€2,251.50*
Pressure boosting station with 200 l permeate dispenser for NeoPermIon permeate cabinet system
Product number:
882051
The pressure booster station with permeate storage tank for the NeoPermlon permeate cabinet system is designed to supply connected consumers with the required amount of water at sufficient pressure. In modern commercial kitchens, these include steam cookers, coffee machines and dishwashers. The pressure increase ensures that these appliances are continuously supplied with the required water at a pressure that is tailored to the demand.
€2,368.20*
Pressure boosting station with 300 l permeate dispenser for NeoPermIon permeate cabinet system
Product number:
882052
The pressure booster station with permeate storage tank for the NeoPermlon permeate cabinet system has the function of supplying the connected consumers with the required amount of water at sufficient pressure. In modern commercial kitchens, these include steam cookers, coffee machines and dishwashers. The pressure booster ensures that these appliances are supplied with the necessary water at a pressure adapted to the demand without interruption.
€2,490.60*