Comparing the options
| Option | Strengths | Limits |
|---|---|---|
| Pitcher | Low start-up, portable | Small capacity; often rated for chlorine, not chloramine |
| Fridge filter | Convenient | Short contact time; check certification |
| Under-sink alkaline RO | Reduces taste and dissolved solids | One faucet; needs cabinet space and a drain |
| Whole-home system | Every tap and shower | Not specifically for drinking water; often paired with RO |
Fridge filters and pitchers are easy to forget about. A cartridge past its rated capacity does not perform like a new one, so the cheapest option on day one can be the least effective after a few months.
What Margate water calls for
Margate's 2025 report lists a 3.0 ppm average disinfectant residual and sodium at 45.6 ppm. Chloramine is what people taste; sodium and other dissolved solids affect taste too. RO with chloramine-rated pre-filters addresses both. If you want a specific contaminant reduced, such as lead, fluoride or PFOA/PFOS, the exact model must be certified for it under NSF/ANSI 58.
RO also gives you consistent water for coffee makers, kettles and baby formula, and less scale in appliances that heat water.
By household
- Condo or townhome: under-sink RO, no building changes.
- Single-family home: RO in the kitchen, often with whole-home for showers.
- Big bottled-water users: RO usually replaces the weekly cases.
- Office or gym: RO sized for daily use.
Seasonal residents can ask for a filter plan timed to when they arrive, and should run the RO faucet for a few minutes after coming back from a long trip.
Alkaline or standard
Living Water's under-sink system is alkaline RO, which adds minerals back for taste and raises pH. That is a taste preference, not a health claim. See alkaline vs. standard RO.
If you prefer standard RO, or another brand you already own, Jorge will still help you read your test and check certifications.
Upkeep and the summer switch
Every option needs filter changes. Ask for a written schedule. During Margate's annual free-chlorine weeks, carbon stages work a bit harder, so staying on schedule matters.
A quick way to decide: if you buy bottled water mainly for taste, RO is the natural replacement.
Choose with your numbers
Jorge tests at your kitchen tap and helps you choose, including telling you if a pitcher is enough. Call, text or WhatsApp (305) 793-5974. Living Water offers financing through its financing partners; you apply with a credit application, and a co-applicant can apply with you.
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist