The biggest cost drivers
| Factor | Why it matters in South Miami |
|---|---|
| System type | Chloramine at every tap needs a whole-home system; drinking water alone may need only RO. |
| Plumbing access | Older houses may have main lines in tight or hard-to-reach spots. |
| Drain and power | Backwashing models need a drain; some need an outlet near the main line. |
| Septic or sewer | Discharge planning matters on the many South Miami properties still on septic. |
| Irrigation split | Separating the sprinkler line may add plumbing work. |
| Ongoing upkeep | Filters, membranes and salt over the years. |
Why your water report affects the quote
South Miami's water comes from WASD's Orr plant, which lime-softens it and disinfects it with chloramine. Because hardness is already reduced at the plant, many homes can skip a softener, which changes the total. A test at your tap decides that, not an assumption.
What a good quote includes
- Exact equipment models and what each one is meant to address.
- Installation labor and plumbing materials, listed separately.
- Permits, if any apply.
- Replacement filter or media schedule.
- Warranty terms in writing.
See how to compare water treatment quotes and why installation quotes differ.
How to compare two South Miami quotes
Line the quotes up by what each system is meant to address, not by brand names. A quote that includes a softener you may not need will look different from one that doesn't. A quote that ignores your septic setup or your irrigation line may look cheaper until those details appear during installation. Ask each installer what they measured at your tap; if the answer is "nothing," the quote is a guess.
Also ask what happens if your needs change, for example if your street is connected to sewer under the city's Septic-to-Sewer program later.
Ownership costs to ask about
Ask how often each filter changes, what replacement parts cost, whether service visits are included, and how water use (like RO drain water) affects your WASD bill. Read the annual cost of owning a whole-home filter.
Financing
Living Water offers financing through its financing partners. You apply with a credit application, and a co-applicant can apply with you. Ask Jorge about it during the visit.
https://www.miamidade.gov/resources/water/documents/2025-water-quality-report.pdf
https://www.southmiamifl.gov/806/Septic-to-Sewer-Information
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist