What to Look for When Buying an RO Filter System

What should I keep in mind when browsing RO filter systems

What Should I Look for when Buying a Reverse Osmosis (RO) System

Millions of households in the U.S. have installed reverse osmosis (RO) filtration systems to not only improve the taste and odor of their drinking water, but also as a preventative measure to keep their families safe from lead, pesticides, chlorine, too much fluoride, organics, and other contaminants.

How to Choose the Right Reverse Osmosis System

When purchasing a reverse osmosis drinking water system, you might consider several factors, such as the system's established reputation, pricing, ease of filter replacements, and more.

Here are several things to consider when deciding which RO system is right for your household.

Number one

Customer Reivews and Reputation

Before investing in a reverse osmosis drinking water system, we suggest you research customer reviews and ratings for various RO systems. Pay attention to feedback regarding performance, component reliability, and customer support to ensure you're selecting a reputable brand.

Look for a system that effectively removes contaminants commonly found in your water supply. Check how the system is rated in removing impurities such as chlorine, lead, fluoride, heavy metals, pesticides, and other harmful substances.

Microline TFC-400-ESP RO System 50 GPDOne proven, high-quality system and trusted brand you might consider, is the Microline TFC-400-ESP RO system. The system is manufactured by a U.S.-based company and assembled in the U.S. using domestic and imported parts. This RO unit has been around for years, and considered a trusted, quality-made RO unit that requires little maintenance.

Number two

Pricing
How much you're willing to spend for a reverse osmosis filter system can impact the units considered when making the purchase.

An under-sink reverse osmosis (RO) filtration system typically ranges from $200 to $600, with the the average cost being about $400.

While it is possible to find lower-priced reverse osmosis (RO) systems that are made from overseas manufacturers, they may not provide the desired level of reliability or water quality. Cheaper RO systems may use lower-quality components, such as membranes, filters, or fittings. These components could have a shorter lifespan or be prone to failure, leading to reduced water quality or frequent maintenance issues.

There are also higher-priced systems that rely on the reputation of a name brand, but may not always deliver superior water quality. It's essential to assess whether the price justifies the performance and features offered by the system. Comparing the system's specifications, certifications, and customer reviews with similarly priced alternatives can help determine if it provides the best value for your investment.

PureValue 5EZ50 Reverse Osmosis System 5-Stage 50 GPDWhen considering a system that is a great value for the price, the PureValue 5EZ50 five-stage RO System is a popular model. The PureValue 5EZ50 is a high-quality, affordable reverse osmosis system, that produces up to 50 gallons of pristine water per day. This 5-stage water filtration system improves water taste and odor, plus removes fluoride, chlorine, chemicals, lead, and more.

How Much Of A Contaminant Can A Reverse Osmosis System Remove?

• Fluoride (85-92%)
• Lead (95-98%)
• Chlorine (98%)
• Pesticides (up to 99%)
• Nitrates (60-75%)
• Sulfate (96-98%)
• Calcium (94-98%)
• Phosphate (96-98%)
• Arsenic (92-96%)
• Nickel (96-98%)
• Mercury (95-98%)
• Sodium (85-94%)
• Barium (95-98%)

Number three

Quick and Simple Filter Changes

Quick-change filters typically feature a user-friendly design that simplifies the filter replacement process. If this feature is important to you, look for a system that offers straightforward instructions and require minimal tools or technical expertise for replacing the filters.

The advantage of a "quick-change" filter is that replacing it is a simple, quick and clean process. RO systems that don't have quick-change filters might mean that filter replacements are a little more messy and cumbersome.

Before selecting a quick-change RO system, ensure that replacement filters are readily available for the specific RO system you choose.

Also, verify if the quick-change filters are proprietary to the specific RO system brand or if there are compatible RO filters that will work for the system. Having compatibility with a wider range of filters can provide more options and flexibility for replacements. At ESP Water, we offer high-quality, compatible filter replacement bundles for brands such as EcoWater, Culligan, Rainsoft, Proline, Rayne, iSpring, and more. Check out the compatible replacement filter kits we carry.

One system to consider if quick-change filters are important to you, is the PuROTwist RO system. To replace PuROTwist filters, simply twist the used filter off and twist the new filter on. No tools, no buckets, no mess.

PuROTwist 4000 RO System with Quick Connect FiltersThe PT4000T50-SS is a 4-stage, point-of-use reverse osmosis system that treats 50 gallons of water per day. This system's compact size makes for simple installation under your kitchen sink. The PuROtwist 5-stage drinking water system reduces odors, removes lead, pesticides, fluoride, organics and more.

At ESP Water, we offer high-quality compatible filter bundles for dozens of name-brand reverse osmosis systems

Number four

Affordable replacement filters:

Before purchasing an RO filtration system, check the cost of replacement filters and factor that into the long-term maintenance expenses.

Affordable replacement filters can help you save money in the long run. Since RO systems typically require filter replacements every 6-12 months (depending on household water usage and quality of water coming into the home), opting for affordable filters reduces the overall maintenance costs associated with the system.

Lower-cost replacement filters encourage regular maintenance and filter changes. Regularly replacing filters helps maintain the system's performance and extends its lifespan.

Depending on which reverse osmosis system you install, the price of replacement filters can vary a lot. Proprietery filter replacements for name-brand filters such as Culligan, Rainsoft, Proline, Rayne, and iSpring, can be costly. We offer high-quality compatible filter bundles for dozens of name-brand reverse osmosis systems.

Microline TFC-400-ESP RO System 50 GPDIf you're looking for a system that is affordable to upkeep with low-priced filter replacements, the Microline TFC-400-ESP RO system is a good option.

This Microline 5-stage water filtration system is also effective in reducing odors, chlorine, fluoride, pesticides, chemicals, lead, and more.

Number 5

Eco-Friendliness:

If conserving water is important to you, then you may want to consider an environmentally-friendly reverse osmosis water filter system.

An eco-friendly system can significantly reduce water waste, which is a critical consideration in sustainable living practices. Traditional reverse osmosis systems are known for their high water wastage, where several gallons of tap water are expended for every gallon of filtered water produced. More eco-friendly models, however, utilize advanced membrane technology to aid conservation.

Also, such efficient systems also lead to cost savings by reducing your water water bill.

When it comes to under-sink RO systems, the PuROTwist 4000 is popular as it is engineered to conserve water. The PuROTwist 4000 reverse osmosis system not only maintains outstanding water filtration quality, but also conserves water at a 1:1 ratio, helping to maintain your environmental sustainability goals.

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PuROTwist 4000 RO System

PuROTwist 4000 RO water filter system offers the highest of quality and performance standards. In addition, the system conserves water with a 1:1 recovery rate--a big improvement from the typical 4:1 waste water ratio of other RO systems.

The high-capacity (75 GPD) reverse osmosis system features quick-connect filters that make it easy to replace filters. The system's automatic shut-off feature signals the RO unit to stop making water until more is needed.

If you'd like to talk with a water specialist about which type of reverse osmosis system is right for your household, water experts are available Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm Central Time to answer your call. (877) 377-9876

Does Water Pressure Matter When Installing an Under-Sink RO System?

Yes, water pressure plays a crucial role when installing an under-sink reverse osmosis (RO) system.

Reverse osmosis filtration systems rely on water pressure to push water through the semipermeable membrane, which removes contaminants. Adequate water pressure ensures efficient filtration and the production of clean, filtered water.

The ideal water pressure range for most RO systems is typically between 40 to 80 pounds per square inch (psi), with 60 psi considered optimal. When water pressure is within this range, the system can function optimally, achieving the desired flow rate and effectively removing contaminants from the water.

Most municipal water suppliers provide this amount of water pressure. If you're concerned about low water pressure, you may need to test your water pressure and if it is below 40 psi, install a booster bump or install a different type of drinking water system.

Why Choose Reverse Osmosis?

If you're searching for a water filtration system that will give you outstanding water, we suggest reading our "Reverse Osmosis Buyer's Guide". Here are a few reasons to consider RO:

Improves Taste
RO filtration improves taste, odor and appearance of water by removing contaminants that cause taste and odor problems.

Saves Money
With an RO system, you can cancel your water delivery service and stop purchasing cases of bottled water. Reverse Osmosis filtration provides “better-than-bottled water” quality water for just pennies per gallon.

Simple Maintenance
RO systems have very few moving or replaceable parts making RO systems easy to clean and service.

Removes Impurities
Reverse osmosis systems can remove common pollutants from water including nitrates, lead, pesticides, fluoride, organics, arsenic and more. A Reverse Osmosis systems’ carbon filter will also remove chlorine and chloramines.

Find Out Why Milions OF Households Have Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Systems

City vs. Well Water Considerations for Reverse Osmosis

Eighty percent of U.S. households are on city water, where water is supplied from a local treatment plant. If you're on city water, a reverse osmosis system is an excellent choice to improve your household's drinking water.

But for the 20% of households on private well, in addition to a reverse osmosis drinking water system, a UV water disinfection system is highly recommended. Well water is susceptible to bacteria, and a UV sterilizer will remove bacteria and viruses, something an RO system is not equipped to handle.

A reverse osmosis unit will improve the taste and odor of drinking water. When paired with a UV light sterilizer (which can protect the household water from harmful microbes 24/7), you have a winning combination.

Best Under-Sink Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Systems

The following under-counter Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems can reduce lead, pesticides, fluoride, organics and more:

Top-Selling Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Systems

Microline TFC-400-ESP RO System 50 GPD TFC-400-ESP

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AXEON Solo I All-In-One 4-Stage 50 GPD RO System (211470)

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GRO 1:1 RO High Efficiency 75 GPD Drinking Water System (GRO-75GPD)

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  • Proven, High-Quality System
  • Compact, Space-Saving Design
  • Advanced Filtration, Quick-Change Filters, & Conserves Water
  • Designer Chrome Faucet
  • Standard Chrome Faucet
  • Designer Chrome Faucet
  • High-Flow 3/8" Tubing to Faucet
  • High-Flow 3/8" Tubing to Faucet
  • High-Flow 3/8" Tubing to Faucet
  • 4-Stages of Filtration
  • 4-Stages of Filtration
  • 4-Stages of Filtration
  • Compact 3.2 Gallon Storage Tank
  • Standard 4.4 Gallon Storage Tank
  • Standard 4.4 Gallon Storage Tank
  • Airgap and Non-Airgap Faucet Connection
  • Airgap Faucet Connection
  • Air Gap and Non-Airgap Faucet Connection
  • 50 Gallons Per Day
  • 50 Gallons Per Day
  • 75 Gallons Per Day
  • Made in USA
  • Designed in USA, Made in China
  • Made in USA
  • Free Shipping
  • Free Shipping
  • Free Shipping

Answers To Your Most Common Questions

Air Gap vs. Non-Air Gap RO Faucet

What's the difference between an “Air Gap” faucet and a “Non-Air Gap” faucet? Which one should you use with your reverse osmosis filter system?
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Advantages & Disadvantages of RO

Is reverse osmosis filtered water worth it? Are RO replacement filters expensive? Let's explore the pros and cons of Reverse Osmosis filtration.
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Benefits of UV Water Disinfection

Treating water with Ultraviolet (UV) light is one of the MOST effective ways to treat waterborne microorganisms, such as bacteria and viruses...
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