The system itself
- Number of stages. Living Water's systems are multi-stage, with carbon before and after the membrane and an alkaline stage.
- Tank or tankless. Different designs, different space needs; see tankless vs. tank RO.
- Faucet choice. A dedicated faucet comes with the system; finish upgrades can change cost.
Installation variables in Boca kitchens
- Countertop. If there is no spare sprayer or soap hole, the counter is drilled. Granite, quartz and other stone take more time and the right tools.
- Cabinet space. Garbage disposals, water heaters and pull-out trash bins can crowd the cabinet.
- Drain connection for the reject water.
- Refrigerator or ice maker line, and how far it runs.
- Condo rules on contractors and work hours, which some buildings have.
Upkeep: what to ask
RO is a system you maintain. Ask for:
- The replacement schedule for each filter and the membrane.
- What shortens that schedule. In Boca Raton, the city's chloramine residual (2.0 to 3.5 mg/L) is handled by the carbon pre-filter, and that filter protects the membrane, so its schedule matters.
- Whether a whole-home filter upstream would extend pre-filter life.
- How much water the system sends to drain for each gallon it makes.
More: RO maintenance and operating costs and RO filter replacement.
Is RO the right purchase at all?
Before comparing quotes, make sure RO is the system you need. In Boca Raton, city water is already softened at the plant, filtered and disinfected. If the only complaint is the chloramine taste in a glass, a carbon-based drinking water filter certified for chloramine may be enough. RO makes more sense when you want lower dissolved solids, a dedicated faucet that replaces bottled water, or a system certified for a specific contaminant you care about. Jorge will walk through the options on the drinking water system page with you at the test.
Compare it to what you spend now
If your household buys bottled water, the useful comparison is your current monthly habit against the system's upkeep schedule. The bottled water vs. RO calculator lets you run your own numbers.
What the quote should list
- Model and number of stages.
- Faucet and any countertop work.
- Ice maker or refrigerator connection, if wanted.
- Filter schedule and the parts involved.
- Anything excluded.
Living Water offers financing through its financing partners, with a credit application; a co-applicant can apply with you.
Call, text or WhatsApp Jorge at (305) 793-5974 for the free test and quote.
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist