Line items that move the number
| Line item | What changes it |
|---|---|
| System | Number of stages, alkaline stage, tank or tankless |
| Faucet | Existing hole, new hole, counter material |
| Drain | Access around the disposal and trap |
| Fridge or ice maker line | Distance and route |
| Pre-filter life | Sediment and chloramine load on your water |
None of these require guesswork at the visit: Jorge looks under the sink, checks the counter and the route to the fridge, and builds the quote from what he sees.
Why chloramine shows up in an RO quote
WASD water in Tamiami carries chloramine, averaging 2.5 ppm for the main system in 2025. RO systems rely on carbon pre-filters to reduce it before the membrane. On chloraminated water, those pre-filters are working steadily, so their size and replacement interval are worth reading closely in any quote. If your home also has a whole-home chloramine filter, the RO pre-filters carry less of that load.
Tank or tankless
Tank systems keep a reserve of filtered water in a small pressurized tank; tankless systems filter on demand and free up cabinet space. They differ in footprint, parts and flow at the faucet, which is why the style affects cost. Compare them in tankless vs. tank RO.
Running costs to ask about
- Pre-filter interval for your household's use
- Membrane life
- Alkaline or polishing stage interval
- Whether service visits are included, and how they are scheduled
Tools: RO filter replacement cost and bottled water vs. RO.
A household that drinks and cooks mostly from the RO faucet goes through pre-filters faster than one that uses it only for a glass at night, so be honest about usage when the schedule is set.
Comparing quotes fairly
Line up the number of stages, the certifications for any claim you care about (NSF/ANSI 58 for RO), what filters are included, installation details and warranty terms. See how to compare water treatment quotes.
Renters and condo owners
In apartments and condos, the landlord or association may need to approve a new faucet hole, and you may want a system you can take with you. Ask about both before scheduling, and keep the itemized quote to share with them.
Financing and next step
Living Water offers financing through its financing partners; you apply with a credit application, and a co-applicant can apply with you. Read under-sink RO in Tamiami, then call, text or WhatsApp (305) 793-5974.
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist