Why North Miami households choose RO
- The chloramine taste, listed at 2.0 ppm in the city's 2025 report, is most noticeable in drinking water, coffee and ice.
- RO is a direct replacement for buying bottled water.
- It works in condo buildings and rentals where the main line is off limits.
- It gives one consistent tap even though the city's water blends Winson plant and county sources.
How the stages work
| Stage | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Sediment | Catches particles, including sediment stirred up by line work |
| Carbon | Reduces chloramine taste and protects the membrane |
| RO membrane | Reduces dissolved solids such as salts and minerals |
| Alkaline stage | Adds minerals back for taste |
| Dedicated faucet | Keeps RO water separate |
See Living Water's compact alkaline RO.
Lead and older plumbing
North Miami's 2025 report includes the standard federal lead guidance, which says that using a filter certified by an ANSI-accredited certifier to reduce lead is effective in reducing lead exposure, and to follow the filter's instructions. The city's own tap sampling found 1.8 ppb at the 90th percentile, with none of 30 homes above the action level. If lead reduction matters to you, for example in an older home, choose an RO model whose NSF/ANSI 58 listing includes lead, and ask Jorge for that listing.
Fitting it in your kitchen
- Cabinet space: tankless units are slimmer. See tankless vs. tank RO.
- Countertop: a spare hole, or drilling for the faucet.
- Drain: RO sends some water to the drain while filtering.
- Condo or rental: get approval first.
Sodium, minerals and taste
The city's 2025 report lists sodium at 19.2 ppm in its own system, and lime softening has already lowered calcium and magnesium. RO reduces dissolved solids further, which is why RO water can taste flat to some people. The alkaline stage adds minerals back so the water tastes rounder. If you prefer the taste of mineral water, ask Jorge to let you compare during the visit.
Upkeep
Filters are replaced on a schedule and membranes last longer. Ask for the schedule in writing. A slowdown at the RO faucet or a change in taste is usually the first sign a change is due.
See the difference
Jorge tests your tap and shows what RO would change. Call, text or WhatsApp (305) 793-5974.
https://www.northmiamifl.gov/DocumentCenter/View/23256/Water-Quality-Report-2025-PDF
https://www.northmiamifl.gov/281/Water-Plant
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist