What goes into the price
- System design: number of stages, tank or tankless (see tankless vs. tank).
- Certifications: broader NSF/ANSI 58 claims can mean a different model.
- Faucet: new countertop hole or existing sprayer hole; stone countertops take more work.
- Cabinet: space beside the disposal and drain.
- Extras: a line to the refrigerator or ice maker.
The chloramine factor
District 1 water carries chloramine at about 3.8 ppm, per the county's 2025 report. Chloramine is hard on RO membranes, so the carbon prefilter has to be suited to it, and it may need changing more often than on chlorine-treated water. That is a real ongoing cost to ask about, and a good reason to be wary of a system priced without discussing your disinfectant.
Ongoing costs
- Sediment and carbon prefilters.
- The RO membrane, on a longer cycle.
- The alkaline remineralizing cartridge.
- Water sent to drain during production.
Get the schedule and part numbers in writing. See RO filter replacement cost.
Questions that keep quotes comparable
- What is the exact model, and what claims are on its NSF/ANSI 58 listing?
- Is the carbon prefilter rated for chloramine?
- What is included in installation, and what is extra?
- How often are cartridges changed, and can I order them myself?
- What does the warranty cover, and for how long?
If two quotes answer these differently, the price difference usually makes sense once you see why.
Condo specifics
Many Lauderdale Lakes residents live in condos or rentals. Under-sink RO usually fits there, but the association may need to approve a countertop hole, and access hours can affect installation. Ask before you schedule.
Where installation time goes
Most of an RO install is routine: mounting the unit, connecting the cold line, the drain saddle and the faucet. The variables are drilling a stone countertop, working around a garbage disposal or a crowded cabinet, and running tubing to a refrigerator across the kitchen. Jorge looks at all of that during the free test, so the quote reflects your kitchen rather than a best case.
Bottled water comparison and your quote
If you buy bottled water now, compare what you spend each month with an RO system's filter schedule. Use bottled water vs. RO with your own numbers.
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