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Making the smart decision to install a reverse osmosis (RO) system is just the first step.
Now comes the challenging part – navigating through the countless options available in today’s market.
With hundreds of models to choose from, finding the right RO system for you can feel overwhelming.
Our team of master plumbers and water filtration experts has tested dozens of reverse osmosis systems, and we’re here to simplify your search.
We’ll guide you through the essential factors to consider before investing in an RO system.
You’ll discover the different types available and learn which ones best match your specific needs.
By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of exactly what to look for in your ideal reverse osmosis system.
We’ve done the heavy lifting to help you make an informed choice that perfectly suits your household’s water purification requirements.
Before you start shopping for your reverse osmosis system, our team has identified several crucial factors you need to consider:
A common question we hear is about faucet compatibility. Here’s what we’ve learned through our installations: most point-of-use RO systems require a specialized faucet. The good news? You typically won’t need to purchase this separately. Manufacturers usually include the appropriate faucet with the system package.
Through our extensive testing, we’ve found that three filtration stages represent the minimum threshold for effective water purification. These essential stages include:
Our professional advice? Test your tap water first. We’ve consistently observed that homes with lower quality water benefit from additional filtration stages. You might want to consider extra components such as:
Take the Express Water Reverse Osmosis System shown above as an example – it boasts 11 stages, which is typically the maximum you’ll find in residential RO systems.
While RO systems do remove some hardness-causing minerals, we want to be clear: they’re not designed to replace water softeners.
Through our testing experience, we recommend considering an additional water softening stage if your water hardness exceeds 60 ppm or mg/L.
However, if your water hardness levels are relatively low, the RO system’s natural mineral reduction capabilities should suffice.
Here’s something important we’ve learned: , Reverse Osmosis systems waste water. It’s an inherent part of the filtration process.
Traditionally, these systems would waste up to 60% of incoming water.
But there’s good news – we’re seeing significant improvements in newer models, with much better water efficiency ratings.
Production capacity, measured in gallons-per-day (GPD), is crucial for system selection.
Based on our installation experience, we recommend:
We’ll break down these calculations in more detail below.
Let’s examine the three main types of RO systems to help you make an informed choice:
Don’t let their compact size fool you. Our testing has revealed that modern countertop RO systems pack impressive filtration power into space-saving designs.
These systems are perfect for those who want powerful water filtration without permanent installation.
Take the Waterdrop WD-G3-W for instance. We’ve found that despite its modest 18″ x 5 ½” x 18″ footprint, it delivers outstanding performance with:
In our professional experience, under-counter systems remain the most popular choice among homeowners – and for good reason.
These point-of-use systems offer the perfect balance of powerful filtration and discrete installation, typically including a dedicated faucet for purified water access.
We’ve extensively tested the APEC Top Tier Supreme Certified Reverse Osmosis Water System shown above, which comes complete with:
Unlike the point-of-use systems we discussed above, whole-house (point-of-entry) systems deliver purified water to every tap in your home.
Our installation experience shows these systems require significant space and investment, but they offer comprehensive water treatment options. Many models can be customized with additional features like UV purification and salt-free water conditioning.
We’ve worked extensively with systems like the Crystal Quest 7000 GPD Whole House Reverse Osmosis System. Its impressive features include:
Our team has identified two key factors that should guide your choice:
For drinking and cooking water only:
For whole-house purification:
Based on our market analysis and installation experience:
Point-of-use systems:
Whole-house systems:
Let’s tackle one of the most misunderstood aspects of RO systems that we encounter in our consultations: gallons per day (GPD) production capacity.
Through years of system installations, we’ve learned that GPD ratings often cause unnecessary confusion, particularly for homeowners seeking point-of-use systems.
Here’s what our experience shows:
For Point-of-Use Systems:
Storage Tank Impact:
Whole-House Considerations:
We’ve installed two main types of whole-house systems:
Through our testing and installation experience, we’ve developed clear guidelines for system sizing:
Point-of-Use Systems:
Whole-House Systems:
Our installation team has identified several crucial factors to evaluate when selecting your RO system:
Physical space constraints can make or break your RO system choice.
For whole-house systems:
In our testing, we’ve found that most RO membranes remove 99%+ of insoluble contaminants.
The real performance difference lies in additional treatment stages:
Based on our installation experience:
DIY-Friendly Systems:
Professional Installation Recommended:
While RO systems are generally low-maintenance, they’re not maintenance-free. Our team has written a comprehensive guide on reverse osmosis maintenance for detailed information.
Key Maintenance Factors:
For environmentally conscious households, we’re seeing exciting developments in water-efficient RO technology:
Pro tip: Look for efficiency ratings when comparing models.
When investing in an RO system, durability matters. We evaluate longevity based on:
Construction Quality:
Warranty Coverage:
With decades of combined experience in water treatment and plumbing, our team has seen firsthand how RO systems transform water quality in homes across the country.
These systems consistently prove their worth by removing or significantly reducing harmful contaminants from tap water. It’s why we confidently recommend them to both our clients and our own families.
Where to Find Your Perfect System:
Our professional experience suggests two main purchasing routes:
Local Retailers:
Online Shopping:
Whether you choose to purchase locally or online, investing in a reverse osmosis system is a smart decision for your household’s water quality. Our team has installed hundreds of these systems, and we’ve consistently seen how they improve both water taste and purity.
Remember: the best RO system is the one that matches your specific needs, space constraints, and budget while delivering the water quality your household deserves.
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