How They Work
Pitcher Filters
- Use activated carbon (sometimes ion exchange) to adsorb chlorine and taste/odor compounds.
- Gravity flow limits contact time and capacity; performance drops as cartridges load.
Simple Technology
Reverse Osmosis (Under‑Sink)
- Multi‑stage: sediment → carbon → Reverse Osmosis membrane → post‑carbon; often with a storage tank.
- Excellent for dissolved solids (TDS), fluoride, nitrates, heavy metals, and many PFAS.
Advanced Filtration
What They Remove (At a Glance)
| Category | Pitcher | Reverse Osmosis |
|---|---|---|
| Chlorine & taste/odor | Good | Excellent |
| Chloramine | Variable | Excellent (proper carbon) |
| Sediment/particulates | Limited | With prefilters |
| Heavy metals | Model‑dependent | Robust reduction |
| Fluoride | Typically no | Strong reduction |
| Nitrates/Nitrites | None | Strong reduction |
| Dissolved solids (TDS) | No change | Significant reduction |
| PFAS (some) | Partial | Better overall |
| Microplastics | Some trapping | Highly effective |
DFW‑Specific Notes
- Seasonal taste/odor swings happen; carbon helps, Reverse Osmosis stays consistent.
- Hardness affects appliances and clarity; Reverse Osmosis at the sink is ideal for cooking/drinking.
- Renters: we install landlord‑friendly Reverse Osmosis options removable at move‑out.
When to Choose Each Option
When a Pitcher is Enough
- Temporary solution (dorms, short‑term rentals, travel)
- Basic taste/odor improvement and light cooking
- OK with frequent cartridge changes/refilling
💡 Best for: Budget-conscious, temporary needs
When Reverse Osmosis is the Right Call
- Broadest reduction: TDS, fluoride, nitrates, heavy metals, some PFAS
- You cook daily, want consistent taste and better coffee/ice
- Lower cost per gallon than bottled; less plastic waste
⭐ Best for: Daily use, comprehensive filtration
Our Typical DFW Setup
- Under‑sink Reverse Osmosis with sediment + catalytic carbon prefilters and high‑rejection membrane.
- Optional remineralization for neutral taste (great for espresso/tea).
- Fridge/ice integration for crystal‑clear ice and better beverages.
- Service plan for filter cadence, pressure checks, and leak audits.
Maintenance You Can Plan Around
Pitcher
- Cartridges: every 1–2 months (typical family use).
- Watch flow and taste—performance tapers as media loads.
Reverse Osmosis (Typical)
- Sediment/Carbon: 6–12 months
- Reverse Osmosis Membrane: 2–5 years
- Post‑filter/Remin: ~12 months
- Annual check: pressure, fittings, tank pre‑charge, TDS verify
FAQs
Does Reverse Osmosis remove beneficial minerals?
Reverse Osmosis reduces minerals; most people meet mineral needs through diet. Prefer a slight mineral taste? We can add a remineralization stage.
Can Reverse Osmosis feed my refrigerator and ice maker?
Yes—we commonly plumb Reverse Osmosis to fridges for clearer ice and better beverages.
Ready for better water? Schedule a free test and personalized recommendation.
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