Imagine drinking a glass of water and knowing it’s truly pure. But is your tap water really as clean as you think? Many things, like lead, pesticides, and bacteria, can sneak into our water. That’s where RO water systems come in, promising cleaner, safer drinking water for you and your family.
Choosing the right RO system can feel overwhelming. There are so many different brands, features, and prices! It’s hard to know what matters most and which system will actually give you the best water. You might worry about wasting money on a system that doesn’t work well, or missing out on important features that would make your life easier.
This blog post will cut through the confusion. We’ll explain what RO systems are, how they work, and what to look for when buying one. You’ll learn about the different types of filters, how to choose the right size for your home, and even how to install and maintain your new system. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge you need to pick the perfect RO water system and enjoy truly clean, refreshing water. Let’s dive in and explore the world of reverse osmosis!
Our Top 5 Ro Water Systems Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Ro Water Systems Detailed Reviews
1. Express Water RO5DX Reverse Osmosis Filtration NSF Certified 5 Stage RO System with Faucet and Tank – Under Sink Water Plus 4 Filters – 50 GPD
Rating: 9.2/10
The Express Water RO5DX Reverse Osmosis Filtration System delivers clean, great-tasting water right from your kitchen sink. This NSF certified 5-stage system removes up to 99.99% of contaminants like lead, chlorine, and fluoride. It comes with a faucet, a storage tank, and four extra filters to get you started. The system filters 50 gallons of water per day and measures 14 x 17 x 5 inches. It’s designed to fit neatly under your sink and provide you with purified water on demand.
What We Like:
- Removes up to 99.99% of harmful contaminants, including lead, chlorine, and fluoride.
- Provides healthy and great-tasting water for drinking and cooking.
- The system is designed for easy self-installation.
- Automatically fills the water tank, so you always have purified water.
- Includes a leak detection system that shuts off the water if a leak is detected.
- Expert support is available to answer your questions.
- Uses environmentally friendly coconut carbon filters for a clean, natural taste.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 50 GPD (gallons per day) filtration rate might be too slow for larger households.
- The 14 x 17 x 5 inch size may not fit under all sinks.
With the Express Water RO5DX, you can enjoy pure, refreshing water without the hassle of bottled water. This system offers a convenient and effective way to improve your water quality at home.
2. APEC Water Systems ROES-50 Essence Series Top Tier 5-Stage WQA Certified Ultra Safe Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filter System
Rating: 9.4/10
The APEC Water Systems ROES-50 Essence Series is a top-of-the-line reverse osmosis drinking water filter system. It is WQA certified, meaning it meets strict quality standards. This system promises to give you ultra-safe and clean drinking water right from your tap. It uses a 5-stage filtration process to remove impurities.
What We Like:
- This system guarantees your water safety and health.
- It removes up to 99% of impurities, including arsenic, chlorine, lead, and fluoride.
- It can filter water with up to 2000 ppm of Total Dissolved Solids.
- The system is WQA certified, ensuring its quality.
- It works with both tap and well water.
- You get unlimited clean, refreshing water that tastes better than bottled water.
- APEC is America’s No.1 rated water filter brand and has been successful for 20 years.
- The system is trouble-free and noise-free, offering long-lasting, dependable performance.
- It includes a 100% lead-free designer faucet and certified JG premium tubing.
What Could Be Improved:
- Feed water pressure needs to be between 40-85 psi. If your water pressure is outside this range, you may need additional equipment.
- The pipe size is 1/4 inches, which might require adapters depending on your existing plumbing.
In conclusion, the APEC ROES-50 is a great choice for anyone who wants the cleanest and safest drinking water. It is a reliable system that is built to last.
3. Waterdrop G3P600 Reverse Osmosis System
Rating: 8.7/10
The Waterdrop G3P600 is a tankless reverse osmosis water filter system designed to fit conveniently under your sink. This system uses 8 stages of filtration to remove harmful substances from your tap water. It features a smart faucet that displays water quality and filter life. It is certified by NSF/ANSI for reducing contaminants and uses a low drain ratio to conserve water.
What We Like:
- The G3P600 is certified to NSF/ANSI standards for reducing TDS, chlorine, lead, and other contaminants.
- It uses an 8-stage filtration system to purify your water.
- The smart faucet displays the TDS level and filter life, making it easy to monitor water quality.
- It has a 2:1 pure to drain ratio, which means it wastes less water than traditional RO systems.
- The tankless design saves space under your sink.
- Filter replacement is quick and easy, taking only a few seconds without tools.
- It produces a high capacity of filtered water, up to 600 gallons per day.
What Could Be Improved:
- The system requires an electrical outlet under the sink, which may not be available in all homes.
- You must measure your cabinet dimensions to ensure the system fits properly.
The Waterdrop G3P600 offers clean and filtered water in a compact design. This system is a great option for anyone looking to improve their water quality.
4. iSpring RCC7AK
Rating: 9.1/10
The iSpring RCC7AK is a 6-stage reverse osmosis system designed to provide clean, healthy drinking water right from your kitchen sink. This system boasts a patented top-mounted faucet design, making installation easier than ever. It also includes an alkaline remineralization stage that adds essential minerals back into the water, improving its taste and pH balance.
What We Like:
- Easy Installation: The patented top-mounted faucet design makes installation a breeze, even for DIY beginners. No more struggling to tighten nuts under the sink!
- Mineral Boost: The AK stage adds healthy minerals back into your water, making it taste great and improving its pH.
- Visible Filtration: The transparent first-stage housing lets you easily monitor filter performance and know when it’s time for a change.
- NSF Certified: The entire system is certified to NSF/ANSI 58 and 372 standards, ensuring quality and performance you can trust.
- Effective Filtration: It removes a wide range of contaminants, including TDS, PFAS, chlorine, lead, and more.
- Easy Filter Replacement: Replacement filters are readily available and easy to install.
- Trustworthy Support: iSpring offers lifetime technical support based in Atlanta, GA.
What Could Be Improved:
- Tank Size: The 75 GPD (Gallons Per Day) production rate might be slow for larger households with high water consumption.
- Initial Cost: Reverse osmosis systems can have a higher initial cost compared to simpler filtration methods.
In conclusion, the iSpring RCC7AK is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to improve their water quality with an easy-to-install and NSF-certified reverse osmosis system. The added mineral boost and transparent filter housing are great features that set it apart.
5. APEC Water Systems RO-90 Ultimate Series Top Tier Supreme Certified High Output 90 GPD Ultra Safe Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filter System
Rating: 8.7/10
The APEC Water Systems RO-90 Ultimate Series is a top-of-the-line reverse osmosis system. It gives you clean, great-tasting water right from your tap. This system uses premium parts for high-quality filtration and long-lasting use. You can say goodbye to buying bottled water and enjoy pure water at home.
What We Like:
- Removes almost all impurities like arsenic, chlorine, lead, and fluoride.
- Filters last a long time because they have a large capacity. This means fewer filter changes.
- Includes a 100% lead-free designer faucet and high-grade tubing for safe, pure water.
- Uses JG Quick Connect fittings. They make installation easy and prevent leaks.
- Simple to install and replace filters with its organized design.
- Comes with lifetime support and a 2-year manufacturer coverage when you register.
What Could Be Improved:
- Maximum feed water pressure is 85 psi, which might be a limitation for some homes.
- The initial cost might be higher compared to basic filtration systems.
Overall, the APEC RO-90 is a great investment for clean and safe drinking water. You can enjoy peace of mind knowing you have a reliable and effective water filtration system.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Finding the Right RO Water System for You
Reverse Osmosis (RO) water systems are a great way to get clean, safe drinking water right from your tap. But with so many options out there, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. This guide will help you understand what to look for so you can make the best decision.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for an RO system, pay attention to these important features:
- Filtration Stages: More stages generally mean cleaner water. Look for systems with at least 4 stages: sediment filter, carbon filter, RO membrane, and a post-carbon filter.
- RO Membrane Quality: The RO membrane is the heart of the system. A high-quality membrane removes more contaminants and lasts longer. Check for NSF certification.
- Storage Tank Size: Consider how much water you need at a time. Tank sizes vary, so choose one that fits your household’s needs.
- Flow Rate: This tells you how quickly the system produces purified water. A higher flow rate means less waiting.
- Automatic Shut-Off: This feature stops the system from producing water when the tank is full, saving water and energy.
- Installation: Some systems are easier to install than others. Think about whether you want to install it yourself or hire a professional.
Important Materials
The materials used in an RO system affect its durability and water quality. Here’s what to consider:
- Housing: Look for systems with durable, food-grade plastic or stainless steel housings. These materials won’t leach chemicals into your water.
- Fittings: High-quality fittings prevent leaks and ensure a secure connection.
- Tubing: Make sure the tubing is made of safe, food-grade materials.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several factors can influence the performance and longevity of your RO system:
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Regular Filter Changes: Changing your filters on time is crucial. It keeps the system working efficiently and ensures clean water. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Proper Maintenance: Regularly check for leaks and clean the system as needed.
- Water Pressure: The system needs adequate water pressure to function properly. If your water pressure is low, you may need a booster pump.
- Pre-filtration: If your water source has a lot of sediment, consider using a pre-filter to protect the RO membrane.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Infrequent Filter Changes: Old, clogged filters reduce water quality and can damage the system.
- High Water Hardness: Hard water can shorten the lifespan of the RO membrane. Consider using a water softener if you have hard water.
- Poor Installation: Incorrect installation can lead to leaks and reduced performance.
- Ignoring Leaks: Address any leaks promptly to prevent water damage and maintain system efficiency.
User Experience and Use Cases
RO systems offer a significant improvement in water quality and convenience.
User Experience:
- Clean, great-tasting water: This is the biggest benefit! RO systems remove impurities that affect taste and odor.
- Convenience: Enjoy purified water right from your tap, without having to buy bottled water.
- Peace of mind: Knowing that you’re drinking safe, clean water is a great feeling.
Use Cases:
- Home Use: Ideal for drinking, cooking, and making beverages.
- Office Use: Provides employees with clean drinking water, promoting health and productivity.
- Aquariums: RO water is perfect for aquariums, as it’s free of harmful chemicals and minerals.
- Specialty Applications: Used in labs, medical facilities, and other settings where high-purity water is required.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What does RO stand for?
A: RO stands for Reverse Osmosis. It’s a water purification process that uses pressure to force water through a semi-permeable membrane, removing contaminants.
Q: What contaminants does an RO system remove?
A: RO systems remove a wide range of contaminants, including lead, arsenic, chlorine, fluoride, bacteria, viruses, and more.
Q: How often do I need to change the filters?
A: Filter replacement frequency depends on the system and water quality. Generally, sediment and carbon filters should be changed every 6-12 months, and the RO membrane every 2-3 years. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Q: Does RO water remove all the minerals?
A: Yes, RO systems remove most minerals from the water. Some systems have a remineralization stage to add back healthy minerals.
Q: Is RO water safe to drink?
A: Yes, RO water is safe to drink. It’s a very effective way to remove harmful contaminants from your water.
Q: Can I install an RO system myself?
A: Some RO systems are designed for DIY installation, while others require professional installation. Read the instructions carefully and assess your plumbing skills before attempting to install it yourself.
Q: How much does an RO system cost?
A: The cost of an RO system varies depending on the features, brand, and quality. Expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $500 or more.
Q: How much waste water does an RO system produce?
A: RO systems produce some waste water during the filtration process. The ratio of purified water to waste water varies, but it’s typically around 1:1 to 1:3. Newer systems are more efficient.
Q: Where can I buy an RO water system?
A: You can buy RO water systems online from retailers like Amazon, or at home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s.
Q: How do I know if my RO system is working properly?
A: You can use a TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) meter to test the water quality. A properly functioning RO system should significantly reduce the TDS level in your water.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.