Options side by side
| Option | Best for | Trade-offs |
|---|---|---|
| Pitcher | Light use, renters | Limited chloramine contact; frequent changes |
| Fridge filter | Convenience | Small cartridge; check certification |
| Under-sink alkaline RO | Daily drinking and cooking | Needs cabinet space and a drain |
| Whole-home system | Chloramine at every tap | Doesn't lower TDS like RO |
Whatever you choose, the certification listing for the exact model is what backs any specific contaminant claim.
Your starting water
Deerfield Beach blends water from three processes, two aquifers and 14 wells, then adds chloramine (2.6 ppm running average in 2025). Fluoride hasn't been added since July 1, 2025. You're choosing for taste and preference, not fixing a problem. If a specific contaminant concerns you, pick a model certified for it and check the listing.
During the city's yearly free chlorination weeks, the taste can change; an RO with a carbon pre-filter evens that out at the kitchen tap.
Homes, condos and offices
- Condo: under-sink RO is usually the practical choice; check association rules.
- Single-family home: RO in the kitchen, plus whole-home filtration if you want chloramine reduced everywhere.
- Office or gym: RO for staff drinking water without deliveries.
For rentals, a pitcher or countertop unit that needs no plumbing may be the realistic choice; check its certification for the claims you care about.
How to choose
- Decide what you want to change: taste, TDS, chloramine or a specific contaminant.
- Confirm certification for any specific claim on the exact model.
- Compare filter schedules and ownership costs.
- Test your tap.
See whole-house vs. under-sink filters.
Bottled water habits
If your household buys cases of water, total a typical month and compare it with RO filter and membrane costs in the bottled water vs. RO calculator.
Many households also buy bottled water for the car, gym or beach. A refillable bottle filled at an RO tap covers much of that.
Maintenance makes the system
The best system is the one that's maintained. Keep filter dates on a calendar, and flush stored water after time away, especially in seasonal homes.
Ask your installer for a written schedule and reminders, and keep a note of each change so you know what's due next.
Book a test
Call, text or WhatsApp (305) 793-5974. Jorge shows what each option would change at your tap. Related: under-sink RO and RO cost.
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist