Side by side
| Option | Strength | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| Pitcher | Simple, low commitment | Small volume; chloramine claims vary by model |
| Fridge filter | Cold water and ice | Small cartridge, short contact time |
| Under-sink alkaline RO | Chloramine taste plus dissolved solids; dedicated faucet | Installation and filter schedule |
| Whole-home system | Chloramine at every tap | Does not reduce dissolved minerals like RO |
What county water brings to the glass
- Chloramine at a 3.04 ppm highest annual average in 2025, the main taste and smell factor.
- Sodium from 18.2 to 49.7 ppm in 2023 sampling.
- No added fluoride since before July 1, 2025.
- Zero water quality violations reported for 2025.
None of this makes the water unfit to drink; it shapes taste and preference.
How to choose
- Name the goal: taste, smell, fewer dissolved solids, a specific contaminant, or convenience.
- For a specific contaminant, check the exact model's NSF/ANSI certification.
- Estimate how much you drink and cook with; big households outgrow pitchers.
- Check under-sink space and the fridge location.
The county also reminds customers to replace filter cartridges according to the manufacturer. A pitcher or fridge filter that has gone past its rated life does less than you expect, so whatever you choose, put the change dates on a calendar.
If you rent, an under-sink RO or a pitcher avoids changes to the main plumbing; ask your landlord before installing anything under the sink.
Common setups
- Family that drinks tap water daily: under-sink alkaline RO with a fridge line.
- Dislikes the smell everywhere: whole-home chloramine system, with RO in the kitchen if wanted.
- Small household: a certified pitcher to start.
- Private well: treat the well first, then add RO. See well water.
Think about who uses the water, too. Families with young children often care most about convenience at the sink and ice maker; households that cook a lot care about volume. Coffee and tea drinkers usually notice chloramine first. Each points to a slightly different setup, and Jorge will ask about your routine before recommending one.
Costs over time
Compare ongoing filter costs as well as the starting price. See RO cost drivers and the bottled water vs. RO calculator.
Try it at your tap
Jorge tests TDS and chloramine at your kitchen faucet and explains what each option would change. Call, text or WhatsApp (305) 793-5974.
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist