Why Tamiami households add RO
WASD's water meets drinking water standards on both sides of SW 8 Street. Families add RO for preference and convenience:
- The chloramine taste in coffee, tea and plain water
- Lower dissolved minerals for cooking and clear ice
- No more carrying cases of bottled water from the store
- A faucet whose certifications they can check themselves
Because WASD stopped adding fluoride in June 2025 and softens the water at its plants, the RO conversation in Tamiami is mostly about taste, chloramine and dissolved minerals rather than hardness.
The stages, in order
- Sediment filter: catches particles from mains and household plumbing.
- Carbon pre-filter: reduces chlorine and chloramine. This step matters on WASD water, because chloramine can damage RO membranes if it reaches them.
- RO membrane: reduces dissolved solids.
- Alkaline and polishing stage: adds minerals back and finishes the taste.
More on the difference: alkaline vs. standard RO.
Fitting it in your kitchen
Jorge checks the cabinet before recommending a model:
- Depth and width left by the disposal and plumbing
- Whether there is a spare faucet hole or the counter needs one
- Drain access for the RO's drain line
- Whether to run a line to the refrigerator or ice maker
Tankless models save cabinet space; tank models store a reserve. See tankless vs. tank RO.
Tamiami has a mix of single-family homes, townhomes and condos, so cabinet sizes vary a lot; that is why the model is chosen on site.
Contaminant claims need a listing
RO systems are certified under NSF/ANSI 58, and each listing covers only the contaminants it names for that exact model. If you have a specific concern, such as PFAS or lead from home plumbing, check the model's listing for that contaminant. See PFAS filters in Tamiami and fluoride filters.
Upkeep
Pre-filters, membrane and the final stage each have their own interval. Ask for the schedule in writing with your quote. Long-term costs are covered in RO maintenance and operating costs and reverse osmosis cost in Tamiami.
A missed pre-filter change on chloraminated water is the most common way an RO system loses performance early, so set reminders or ask about scheduled service.
Taste it first
During the free visit, Jorge tests your tap and can explain how RO would change the readings. Call, text or WhatsApp (305) 793-5974.
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist