What changes the price
- Number of stages and whether there is an alkaline stage.
- Tank or tankless design. See tankless vs. tank RO.
- Countertop: drilling granite or quartz for the faucet takes more care.
- Under-sink space and drain layout, which vary a lot in older South Miami kitchens.
- Extra connections, like a refrigerator ice maker line.
In some South Miami kitchens the sink cabinet is shared with a garbage disposal and cleaning supplies; tankless units take less space but need an outlet. Jorge measures before quoting.
Running costs to ask about
- Replacement schedule for each pre-filter, post-filter and the membrane.
- Drain water: RO sends some water to the drain, which shows up on your WASD bill.
- Service visits, and whether any are included.
See RO maintenance and operating costs and RO filter replacement cost.
Ask, too, whether the quoted filters are the maker's genuine parts and where you will buy them later, so replacement doesn't become a surprise.
How South Miami's water affects filter life
WASD's Orr plant lime-softens the water before it reaches South Miami, and pre-filters handle the chloramine. Your measured dissolved solids and hardness at the tap help set a realistic filter schedule, which is why the test comes first.
On a private well with higher hardness or iron, the RO usually needs the well treated first, which changes the overall plan and cost.
Choosing where the money goes
If the budget is tight, it usually makes sense to start with the system that solves your biggest complaint. For drinking water taste, that's the kitchen RO. If the shower smell bothers you more, whole-home filtration comes first and RO can be added later. Jorge will tell you which order makes sense for your test results and your house, including when one system alone is enough.
Compare it with bottled water
If you buy bottled water now, compare what you spend over a year with RO ownership costs using bottled water vs. RO.
Remember to count the time and storage space bottled water takes, not only what it costs at the register.
What a fair quote shows
The exact model, stages, faucet, installation labor, the filter schedule and the warranty in writing. Living Water also offers financing through its financing partners with a credit application; 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