The unit
- Stages, including whether there is a remineralization (alkaline) stage.
- Tank or tankless. Tankless saves cabinet space, which matters under many condo sinks. See tankless vs. tank RO.
- Faucet style and finish to match your kitchen.
- Certification for the claims you care about, under NSF/ANSI 58.
The installation in an Aventura kitchen
| Factor | Why it changes the quote |
|---|---|
| Countertop material | Quartz, granite and porcelain take specialized drilling; laminate is simpler. An existing sprayer or soap-dispenser hole may be reusable. |
| Cabinet space | Disposals, deep sinks and pull-out trash bins limit room for a tank. |
| Water pressure on your floor | Low pressure can call for a booster pump to keep the membrane working well. |
| Ice maker or refrigerator line | Extra tubing, fittings and routing. |
| Building requirements | Insurance certificates, permitted working hours, elevator reservations and parking. |
Your water's role
The carbon pre-filters in an RO system protect the membrane from chloramine, which NMB Water uses as its disinfectant. Chloramine level and dissolved solids at your tap influence how long filters last. Because NMB blends reverse osmosis-treated Floridan Aquifer water into its supply at the Norwood plant, dissolved solids at your tap may be lower than in some other areas, which can be kind to an RO membrane. The test tells you where you actually stand.
Running costs to ask about
- Replacement intervals for each pre-filter, post-filter, remineralization cartridge and the membrane.
- How much water goes to drain for each gallon produced.
- Whether service visits are included.
- What to do before and after a long absence, if you are a seasonal resident.
See RO filter replacement and bottled water vs. RO.
Seasonal residents and RO
If you split the year between Aventura and somewhere else, keep in mind that an RO system that sits for months behaves differently from one used daily. Water left standing in the storage tank and filters is not ideal when you return. Ask how to prepare the system before leaving, such as closing the feed valve, and what to do on return, typically draining the tank and running fresh water through before drinking. Some owners schedule a filter change to coincide with their arrival. These steps affect running costs, so they belong in the conversation before you buy, not after.
Comparing quotes
When comparing two RO quotes, line up the model, stage count, certification, faucet, countertop work, ice-maker connection, first filter change date and warranty. A lower total sometimes leaves out the countertop work or the first set of replacement filters. If something is missing, ask before you sign so the comparison is fair.
Financing and booking
Living Water offers financing through its financing partners; you apply with a credit application, and a co-applicant can apply with you. Book the free test by call, text or WhatsApp at (305) 793-5974.
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist