Equipment choices that move the price
- Tank or tankless. Tankless saves cabinet space and usually needs an outlet; a tank stores water under the sink. See tankless vs. tank.
- Stages, including the remineralization stage on alkaline models.
- Daily production for larger families or small offices.
- Certified claims under NSF/ANSI 58 on the exact model.
- Faucet style and finish.
None of these is about the brand name on the box. Two units with similar stages can differ mainly in production rate and footprint, so match them to how your household actually uses water.
Installation in Opa-locka kitchens
| Situation | What affects the job |
|---|---|
| Older house | Condition of the shutoff valve and drain, countertop material for the faucet |
| Rental apartment | Owner permission; a setup that can be removed when you move |
| Refrigerator or ice maker hookup | Extra tubing and fittings |
| Break room or small office | Higher daily use; possibly a larger unit |
Running costs to plan for
Every RO system needs its pre-filters, carbon stages and membrane changed on a schedule that depends on your water and use. On chloraminated water like WASD's, the carbon stages protect the membrane, so letting them lapse can shorten membrane life. Ask for:
- The interval for each stage, in writing.
- Whether service visits are included.
- How much water goes to drain per gallon produced.
More detail in RO filter replacement cost.
Compared with buying water
Many Opa-locka households buy cases or jugs. Whether RO makes sense depends on how many gallons you use for drinking, coffee and cooking each week and on the filter schedule. Run your own numbers in the bottled water vs. RO calculator.
Remember the non-money side too: no cases to carry up stairs, no storage space taken in a small kitchen, and no running out on a weekend. For some households that convenience is the real reason they switch; for others, a pitcher is enough. Both are reasonable choices.
A quote you can check
A good RO quote names the model and its certified claims, lists each stage and its replacement interval, spells out installation and exclusions, and states warranty terms. If two quotes look far apart, compare line by line: one may include a fridge connection, a premium faucet or a service plan. See why quotes differ.
Financing and booking
Living Water offers financing through its financing partners, with a credit application; a co-applicant can apply with you. Call, text or WhatsApp (305) 793-5974 to book the free test.
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist