If you are looking for an additional water filtration system for your home, you might be considering a reverse osmosis system. In terms of water filtration, this is one of the best types. That said, there are so many systems available that it can make your head spin.
This article reviews five of the best reverse osmosis systems. Afterward, we’ve included a buyer’s guide and answered some of the most frequently asked questions.
Comparison Chart
iSpring RCC7AK 6-Stage Under Sink Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filter System, NSF Certified, Superb Taste High Capacity Filtration with Natural pH Alkaline Remineralization
Waterdrop RO Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System, NSF Certified, TDS Reduction, 400 GPD Fast Flow, Tankless, Compact, Smart Faucet, UL Listed Power, USA Tech, Brushed Nickel Faucet
APEC Water Systems ROES-PH75 Essence Series Top Tier Alkaline Mineral pH+ 75 GPD 6-Stage Certified Ultra Safe Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filter System
Best Reverse Osmosis Systems – Reviews
iSpring RCC7AK 6-Stage Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System
The iSpring RCC7AK 6-Stage Reverse Osmosis Water Filter is an affordable yet high-quality and very effective water filtration system for your kitchen.
Product Highlights
Let’s talk about this system’s six stages of filtration. The first three stages are pre-filters. The first pre-filter is a sediment filter, the second is a carbon KDF filter, and the third is a carbon block CTO filter. Together, these filters will remove rust, sand, dirt, chlorine, chloramine, heavy metals, and other substances from the water.
Not only do these pre-filters protect your pipes and fixtures, but also the rest of the filter itself, particularly the reverse osmosis membrane. On a side note, the housing for the sediment filter is transparent, so you can tell whether it requires replacing.
The good thing about the reverse osmosis membrane, the fourth stage of filtration, is that it can remove contaminants as small as 0.00001 microns, including many harmful substances that other filters cannot.
The final stages of filtration include alkaline re-mineralization, which increases the alkalinity of the water by adding healthy minerals into the water.
All filters are long-lasting, and you shouldn’t have to replace any of them more than twice per year. Moreover, everything you need to install, mount, and connect this system under your sink is included and, it is pretty easy to install. It may sound complicated, but it’s not. All components are explicitly designed to prevent leaking.
The iSpring RCC7AK 6-Stage Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System comes with a holding tank that can hold well over two gallons of water to ensure that you always have water on hand.
The Good
We like the iSpring RCC7AK 6-Stage Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System because it is very simple and easy to install and operate. Moreover, it’s a really efficient filter that comes with different media types for top-notch substance removal.
The Bad
One thing that is not great about the iSpring RCC7AK 6-Stage Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System is that it greatly reduces the flow rate of your faucet. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s not a bonus.
Pros
- Efficient multi-stage filtration
- Re-mineralizes water
- Easy installation
- Cost-effective
- Low maintenance
- Reasonable price
Cons
- Relatively low flow rate
- May release lead into the water
Home Master TMAFC-ERP Artesian Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System
If you are looking for a high-end water filtration system that incorporates reverse osmosis, with a total of seven filtration stages, the Home Master TMAFC-ERP Artesian Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System could be right for you. It may not be cheap, but it is reliable and functional.
Product Highlights
One thing that stands out about the Home Master TMAFC-ERP Artesian Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System is the seven stages of filtration. Of course, the main selling point is the reverse osmosis membrane, one of the only filter types that can remove chromium, radon, TDS, and many other chemicals and compounds from the water.
Although the seven stages are not specified in terms of content, you can assume that it also incorporates KDF, activated carbon, sediment filtration, and re-mineralization.
This filtration system can remove particles and microplastics, chlorine, chloramine, lead, heavy metals, and more. In terms of filtration efficiency and eliminating unwanted substances from the water, this is definitely one of the best options out there. Don’t forget that the Home Master TMAFC-ERP Artesian Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System is designed to add healthy minerals to the water.
The Home Master TMAFC-ERP Artesian Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System will provide up to twice the flow rate of traditional reverse osmosis filters, almost two gallons per minute, which is quite impressive. On that same note, this unit is also designed to reduce both TDS creep and water waste by up to 80% when compared to other filtration systems.
This unit is NSF certified and made in the US. The storage tank is remarkably durable, and it can hold well over 2 gallons. If durability is not enough, you also get a 5-year warranty. Keep in mind that this is an under-sink model, so doesn’t take up counter space, it is pretty easy to install, and it’s quite perfect for kitchen sinks.
Moreover, the mounting hardware and connections are included, so all you have to do is a bit of assembly.
The Good
We really like the Home Master TMAFC-ERP Artesian Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System because it re-mineralizes the water, making it alkaline and healthier to drink. Moreover, although it is a bit on the expensive side, it is very durable, it works well, it’s low maintenance, and easy to install. We think that it is well worth the investment.
The Bad
One thing about the Home Master TMAFC-ERP Artesian Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System is that the filters tend to pop out of their clips. They still work when they pop out, but it looks messy. There is also the fact that it is pretty expensive.
Pros
- Durable
- Removes thousands of unwanted compounds
- Re-mineralizes the water
- Easy installation
- Low maintenance
- Filters don’t need to be replaced often
- Comes with everything you need
Cons
- Expensive
- It can look messy
Waterdrop RO Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System
If you are looking for a safe, affordable, and simple reverse osmosis filter for any faucet in your home, this Waterdrop RO Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System is one that you should consider. It’s simple, it’s effective, and it looks decent.
Product Highlights
The Waterdrop RO Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System is a seven-stage filter that uses three filter types to get the job done. You get a couple of layers of PP cotton, which acts as a sediment filter and more.
There are layers of activated carbon spread out throughout the filter housing, and there is the reverse osmosis membrane. Water passes through the filter media no less than seven times, allowing for high-grade water filtration.
Some of the substances that the Waterdrop RO Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System removes from the water include sand, dust, dirt, sediment, rust, chlorine, chloramine, lead, heavy metals, pesticides, herbicides, TDS, and much more. This water filtration system will remove thousands of unwanted substances from the water.
We would also like to say that this unit is also NSF/ANSI 372 certified, which means that it does not release anything harmful into your water. This is lead and BPA-free, which is essential.
It is also worth noting that the Waterdrop RO Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System is low maintenance. It will flush itself when needed. Moreover, the filters don’t need to be replaced often.
The cotton filters need replacement about every six months, the carbon filter every 12 months, and the reverse osmosis membrane every 24 months. This system is very efficient in general, as it reduces water waste by up to 300% compared to other systems.
The Waterdrop RO Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System can handle about 400 gallons per day and can process a cup of water in about 12 seconds. Keep in mind that you don’t get a holding tank, but installing it is easy; just plug it into an outlet and connect it to your kitchen faucet.
The Good
The good thing about the Waterdrop RO Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System is how efficiently it filters your water. It doesn’t waste power, time, or water. It gets the job done while wasting as few resources as possible.
The Bad
What we really don’t like about the Waterdrop RO Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System is that it doesn’t have a holding tank.
Some people will like this because it needs much less space, but the fact is that a holding tank allows you to dispense two or three gallons of already-clean water without having to wait, something that is not possible without a holding tank.
Pros
- Simple and user friendly
- Easy installation
- Very efficient filtration
- Doesn’t waste resources
- Relatively fast (for not having a tank)
- Low maintenance
Cons
- No tank means no storage
- Finding replacement filters is a challenge
APEC Water Systems ROES-PH75 Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System
Suppose you want drinking water that is free of virtually all contaminants and substances while containing lots of healthy minerals, as well as being low maintenance and relatively affordable. In that case, this APEC Water Systems ROES-PH75 Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System is something to consider.
Product Highlights
First, the APEC Water Systems ROES-PH75 Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System is a six-stage system, so let’s take a look at the individual filtration components and what they do. The first component is the sediment filter that removes particles like dirt, rust, and sand from your water, protecting both your pipes and the rest of the filter.
The second and third stages consist of premium activated carbon, a block, and granules, which will remove chlorine, volatile organic compounds, other chemicals, tastes, and odors from the water.
The fourth stage, the main component, is the high-rejection TFC reverse osmosis membrane that will remove 99% of total dissolved solids from the water and other elements such as arsenic lead, fluoride, chromium, and radium.
The fifth stage is an advanced coconut shell refining carbon filter designed for TDS removal. The sixth and final stage is the pH+ alkaline re-mineralization filter that adds calcium carbonate to the water, making it healthier to consume.
When operating at 60 PSI, the system can process 90 gallons of water per day, or 75 gallons per day when operating at 50 PSI. You also get a large water tank with a holding capacity of four gallons.
The maintenance requirements are very low with the APEC Water Systems ROES-PH75 Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System. This system reduces the need for filter replacements.
Moreover, this system is also straightforward to install; it comes with everything you need to install it, and the process is very straightforward.
The Good
There are various things that we like about the APEC Water Systems ROES-PH75 Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System, including that you get a high-quality designer faucet that is very durable, efficient, and easy to install. It’s just an overall great system to consider.
The Bad
One bad thing about the APEC Water Systems ROES-PH75 Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System is that it may spring a leak. This depends on how well you install it, but it would not be the first time it leaks. Also, it has been noted that the water tastes a bit funny.
Pros
- Durable
- Great warranty
- Removes virtually all contaminants
- Adds beneficial minerals
- Easy installation
- Minimal maintenance
- Reasonable price
Cons
- Issues with leaking
- Doesn’t taste the best
Express Water RO5DX Reverse Osmosis Filtration System
If you want a relatively simple water filtration system for under your sink that will remove virtually all contaminants from the water without costing a small fortune, this Express Water RO5DX Reverse Osmosis Filtration System is a good one to consider.
Product Highlights
The Express Water RO5DX Reverse Osmosis Filtration System is a five-stage water filtration system, so let’s discuss these five stages are and what they do. The first stage consists of a sediment filter to remove dirt, sand, rust, and other particles from the water. This will help protect your pipes, fixtures and appliances, and the other components within this filter.
The second and third stages consist of activated carbon, including carbon granules and a carbon block. Together, these work to remove chlorine, volatile organic compounds, other chemicals, tastes, colors, and odors from the water.
The fourth stage is the reverse osmosis membrane that removes toxic substances such as lead, arsenic, chromium, fluoride, TDS, radium, and more.
The fifth and final stage is a post-activated carbon filter that removes any remaining odors and tastes. It is worth noting that the pre-filters need to be replaced every six months, while the other media only once per year. Moreover, you get double-sealed filters and a leak-stop valve, which work together to increase filtration efficiency while also preventing leaks from occurring.
The Express Water RO5DX Reverse Osmosis Filtration System can process about 0.8 gallons per minute, which is not fantastic but decent. Also, this unit can process about 50 gallons of drinking water per day. The fact that this water filtration system is straightforward to install and comes with everything needed for installation.
You more or less just have to assemble the parts. You also get a kitchen sink faucet that works well with this system and a large holding tank, so you always have water ready to go.
The Good
One thing that stands out about the Express Water RO5DX Reverse Osmosis Filtration System is that it is customizable. There are UV filters, alkaline filters, deionization filters, and others that can be used in conjunction with this RO filter. Moreover, it’s just an efficient, effective, and easy-to-use system that’s reasonably priced.
The Bad
One of the downsides is that you get what you pay for. Simply put, it has been noted that some components are not the most durable or long-lasting. Also, the water pressure isn’t great.
Pros
- Good price
- Easy to uninstall
- Low maintenance
- Removes virtually all contaminants from water
- Quiet
- Can be customized
- Comes with lots of media
Cons
- Durability issues
- Not the best water pressure
Buyer’s Guide
Before you shop for a reverse osmosis water filtration system, there are a few essential purchasing considerations to be aware of.
Types of Reverse Osmosis Systems
There are two main types of reverse osmosis systems. One type is thin composite film or TCM, and the other is CTA or cellulose triacetate membrane. The most important thing to know is that TFM membranes remove over 98% of common contaminants from the water, whereas CTA membranes remove around 92%. TFM membranes can only treat chlorine-free water.
Therefore, if you live in a city that treats your water with chlorine, you will have to get a CTA reverse osmosis filter. Also, reverse osmosis systems, unless fitted with an additional UV light, can usually not remove microorganisms on their own.
Filters
Pay attention to the number of individual filters as well as the types. Remember, specific filters work for specific substances. You want some kind of sediment filter to remove solid particles, carbon filtration for volatile organic compounds, chlorine, smell, and taste, and the reverse osmosis membrane.
A good addition to any water filter is an alkaline filter that will add beneficial minerals to the water.
Storage Tank
Something else to look for is a decent storage tank. Some of these RO water filtration systems do not have storage tanks, which is great in saving space, but not if you always want to have water available.
If you want to be sure that you always have water and don’t have to wait for filtration, go for a unit that comes with a holding tank that can hold two gallons of water at the very least.
Water Flow
The next factor is how good the water flow is with the system. At the very least, aim for a water filtration system that can process 0.8 gallons per minute, but of course, the more, the better. Keep in mind that most systems won’t process more than 100 gallons per day (usually less).
Installation
The fifth and final factor is the installation of the unit. For the most part, these systems are all straightforward. Connect the inlets and outlets, hook up the tank, insert the filter media, and you are good to go.
That said, a tankless model that filters the water as it comes out of the tap is probably the easiest in terms of installation.
FAQ
What is Reverse Osmosis Water Used For?
Reverse osmosis water is often used in applications requiring extremely clean and contaminant-free water, such as for the food and beverage industry, the production of pharmaceuticals, and drinking. If an industry needs clean water, it is likely to incorporate reverse osmosis into its water filtration process.
How Easy is it to Maintain a Reverse Osmosis Unit?
When it comes down to it, for a basic home reverse osmosis water filtration system, the only maintenance required is changing the filter media, which can be as often as every four months or just every two years.
Does RO Affect Healthy Minerals in My Water?
Reverse osmosis water can be bad for you because it doesn’t contain many minerals. The human body needs minerals, but reverse osmosis water actually drains minerals. This is why many reverse osmosis systems come with mineralizers that replace the minerals removed through the filtration process.
Does a Reverse Osmosis Water Filter Work Like a Distiller?
No, reverse osmosis involves filtration membranes that the water passes through; distillation consists of the evaporation and reformation of water. Distillation is a fancy way of boiling water to clean it (it’s more than just boiling, but that’s the most basic way of putting it).
How Do I Know If a Reverse Osmosis Water Filter is Right for My Home?
Quite honestly, if you want clean drinking water, one of these RO systems is probably right for you. If you are worried about a lack of minerals in RO water, then just get a filter that incorporates re-mineralization into the mix.
Conclusion
When it comes down to it, we think that the best reverse osmosis filtration system for home use is the APEC Water Systems ROES-PH75 Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System. It may have a few minor drawbacks, but it has many stages of filtration, it re-mineralizes the water, it’s low maintenance, and it won’t cost you a small fortune.