Options compared
| Option | Good for | Limits |
|---|---|---|
| Pitcher | Renters, light use | Small capacity; many list chlorine only, not chloramine |
| Fridge filter | Convenience | Check the listing; change on time |
| Under-sink alkaline RO | Condos and houses | Needs cabinet space and filter changes |
| Whole-home | Houses | Not usually possible in towers |
Bottled water and delivery services are the other common choice on the island. They work, but you carry, store and recycle the containers, which adds up in a condo without much storage.
Why chloramine matters for the choice
WASD's main system, which serves the island, averaged 2.5 ppm chloramine in 2025. Many basic filters are rated for chlorine taste and odor, not chloramine. Check the exact model's listing, or choose a system with carbon designed for chloramine.
Taste is personal. Some people like the slight mineral taste of tap water once chloramine is removed; others prefer the cleaner taste of RO with remineralization. A taste comparison after the test helps you decide.
Condo checklist
- Association rules for plumbing work.
- Cabinet space and a cold line shutoff.
- A leak stop under the sink.
- Plan for seasonal absence: close the valve and flush on return.
For rentals, agree with the owner or tenant on who changes filters and when, and leave the schedule inside the cabinet door.
What Living Water offers
Living Water installs multi-stage alkaline RO systems with a dedicated faucet, and whole-home city water systems for houses. Specific contaminant claims depend on each model's certification. Read whole-house vs. under-sink filters.
Ownership over time
The best system is the one you will keep maintaining. Compare what each option asks of you:
- Pitcher: frequent cartridge changes and refilling.
- Fridge filter: a cartridge change on the refrigerator maker's schedule.
- Under-sink RO: pre-filters, membrane and alkaline cartridge on set intervals, plus a flush after long absences.
- Whole-home: media replacement on a longer schedule, sized to your house.
If you split the year between Key Biscayne and another home, choose a system that tolerates idle periods and that you can shut off easily. Compare running costs with the bottled water vs. RO calculator.
PFAS and specific concerns
If you are choosing a system for a specific contaminant, such as PFAS or lead, the decision is about certification, not type. Check the exact model's NSF/ANSI listing. See PFAS on Key Biscayne.
Choose with a test
Jorge tests at your tap free and recommends what fits. Call, text or WhatsApp (305) 793-5974.
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist