The options side by side
| Option | Best at | Limits |
|---|---|---|
| Pitcher | Low cost of entry, taste improvement | Small volume, frequent cartridge changes, varies on chloramine |
| Fridge filter | Convenient cold water and ice | Small carbon cartridge; check certification for each claim |
| Under-sink alkaline RO | Dedicated tap, membrane plus carbon stages, minerals added back | Cabinet space, membrane and filter upkeep, some water to drain |
| Whole-home filter | Chloramine taste and odor at every tap and shower | Not a substitute for drinking-water treatment like RO |
What matters for Kendall water
- Chloramine. WASD disinfects with chloramine, so check any filter's certification for chloramine reduction specifically.
- Fluoride. WASD stopped adding fluoride in June 2025; natural levels remain. If you want to reduce it further, RO is a common method. See fluoride filters in Kendall.
- PFAS. WASD publishes PFAS results in its Water Quality Report. Only systems certified to NSF/ANSI 53 or 58 for PFOA/PFOS reduction should be trusted for that; see PFAS filters in Kendall.
Choosing by household
- Condo or townhome off Kendall Drive: under-sink RO usually fits best and avoids touching shared plumbing.
- Single-family home, large family: under-sink RO for drinking and cooking, possibly with a whole-home system for showers.
- Home on a private well: start with a well test; drinking water treatment comes after the rest of the system is set. See well water treatment in Kendall.
- Office or gym: Living Water's RO systems are also designed for offices and gyms.
Why not just buy bottled water?
Plenty of Kendall households do, and it works. The trade-offs are carrying cases from the store, storing them, the plastic, and running out at the wrong time. A dedicated RO faucet means drinking and cooking water is always there, including for coffee, rice, beans and baby bottles. Whether it makes sense financially depends on how much bottled water you buy now, which is why the calculator below is useful. Either way, the decision is yours, and Jorge will not push RO if a simpler option fits your kitchen.
Questions to ask any seller
- Which exact model, and which NSF/ANSI certifications does its listing show?
- What is the replacement schedule for each filter and membrane?
- What does it do to taste, and can I try the water first?
- Does the quote itemize equipment, installation and upkeep?
Compare with your current spending using our bottled water vs. RO calculator.
Try it with your own water
Jorge tests your Kendall tap water free and explains which option makes sense for your kitchen. Call, text or WhatsApp (305) 793-5974. See also under-sink RO in Kendall.
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist