Equipment choices that change the price
- Tank vs. tankless: tankless saves cabinet space and works differently. See tankless vs. tank RO.
- Stages: more stages add filters to buy and change.
- Alkaline or mineral stage: adds minerals back after the membrane for taste.
- Faucet: standard or designer finish.
- Certifications: check the exact model's NSF/ANSI 58 listing for any reduction claim you care about.
Installation in a local kitchen
| Situation | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Granite or quartz top with no spare hole | May need drilling for the RO faucet |
| Garbage disposal and dishwasher under the sink | Less room, may favor tankless |
| Fridge with water line | Optional connection to RO |
| Rental or condo | Owner approval; simple removal later |
Ongoing costs to ask about
- Pre-filter and carbon replacement schedule. With chloramine at around 2.5 ppm in WASD's 2025 main-system data, ask how the carbon stages are rated.
- Membrane life.
- Alkaline stage replacement.
- Water sent to the drain during filtering.
See RO maintenance and operating costs.
RO vs. buying bottled water
Many Hialeah Gardens families compare RO to the cases of bottled water they buy every week. Add up what you spend on bottled water in a year, then compare it against an RO quote plus its filter schedule. The bottled water vs. RO calculator helps.
Questions to put to any installer
- Which exact model is this, and what is its certification listing?
- How long are the filters rated for at my household's use?
- What does the alkaline stage do, and how often is it replaced?
- Who do I call for filter changes, and are they included in the quote?
- Is installation of the faucet and drain connection included?
Getting a quote
Jorge tests your water first, so he can recommend the right carbon stages for chloramine and explain what the membrane will change. The quote lists the equipment, installation and replacement schedule. Living Water offers financing through its financing partners; you apply with a credit application, and a co-applicant can apply with you. Call, text or WhatsApp (305) 793-5974.
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist