Is the iSpring RCC7AK the best water filtration system? Read our detailed reviews

Description

Daily Experiences with the Reverse Osmosis System

I’ve been using this reverse osmosis system for a few months now and, honestly, it’s become an essential part of my daily routine. As someone who drinks a lot of water and makes coffee religiously every morning, having clean, great-tasting water at my fingertips has been a game-changer. My kitchen’s under-sink area may look a little more crowded now, but the benefits far outweigh the sacrifice in storage space.

The first thing I noticed after installing this system was the taste of the water. It’s crisp, refreshing, and completely different from my previous tap water, which often had a metallic tang. Even my picky kids, who usually avoid drinking water, now happily fill their bottles. My partner, too, has started using this water for soups and cooking because it simply tastes better.

Features and Functionality

This water filtration system comes with a six-stage filtration process, including an alkaline remineralization filter that restores healthy minerals to the water. I ran multiple tests with a TDS meter, and the results were impressive. The system removes up to 99% of contaminants, including fluoride, lead, chlorine, and others I didn’t even know existed in my water. The additional pH+ feature is a bonus, as it slightly raises the water’s alkalinity, giving it a balanced, natural taste.

Another feature I appreciate is the transparent housing for the first stage filter. It’s incredibly useful for visually inspecting the filter’s condition without having to open anything. The DIY installation was fairly straightforward, although it took me a little longer than the average person due to the tight space under my sink. I watched a couple of YouTube videos to get the hang of it, and the included manual was clear and detailed.

The quick-connect fittings were a nice touch, making the setup process simpler. I was slightly nervous about leaks, but the system has been flawless so far. It even came with a leak detector, which gives me peace of mind, although I haven’t had to use it.

Pros

• Excellent Water Quality: The water tastes amazing – clean, pure, and refreshing.
• DIY Installation: Comes with all the parts and clear instructions, making it beginner-friendly.
• Six-Stage Filtration: Removes contaminants effectively, including heavy metals and bacteria.
• Low Maintenance: Filters are easy to replace, and the system doesn’t require constant attention.
• Eco-Friendly: Reduces my dependency on bottled water, cutting down on plastic waste.

Cons

• Space Requirements: The system takes up a fair bit of room under the sink, limiting storage options.
• Initial Purge: The setup process requires flushing the system several times, which can feel wasteful.
• Water Wastage: Like most reverse osmosis systems, it produces wastewater during operation.
• Faucet Design: The included faucet has a brushed nickel finish that didn’t match my chrome fixtures.
• Alkaline Boost: While the pH+ filter works, the increase in alkalinity is modest.

Comparison to Competitors

I’ve used a basic five-stage reverse osmosis system before, and the difference in taste and performance is noticeable. This system not only filters out harmful contaminants but also restores beneficial minerals, which gives the water a more natural flavor. Compared to other brands like APEC or Express Water, this system stands out for its robust build quality and thoughtful features like the transparent first-stage housing.

However, it does fall slightly behind in efficiency. While similar systems may have a 1:1 ratio of purified water to wastewater, this one leans closer to 1:1.5. That said, the inclusion of the alkaline filter and NSF certification makes it a better choice for those prioritizing water quality over water efficiency.

Cost Analysis and Value for Money

Considering the number of features packed into this system, I find it to be a great value. While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, the investment feels justified given the significant improvement in water quality and taste. Plus, the long-lasting filters reduce the frequency of replacements, saving money in the long run. Factoring in the environmental benefits of cutting down on bottled water, it’s an all-around win for my household.

Additional information