Explore if Express Water RO5DX Reverse Osmosis System is Worth It – Full Review

Description

Ease of Installation & Use

Setting up the Express Water RO5DX Reverse Osmosis System was an adventure in itself. I’m not exactly a master plumber, but the quick-connect tubing system made me feel like one. The installation manual included clear steps, and the whole process was straightforward. I managed to fit this under my kitchen sink without any professional help, which saved me a few bucks. It did require a bit of elbow grease to ensure all the connections were tight, but nothing too complicated.

What really stood out was how user-friendly it is. The system includes a filter housing wrench, which was a lifesaver when securing the filter components. I also appreciated the leak detection system—this little feature shuts off water flow at the first sign of moisture. It’s like having an extra set of eyes under your sink, which is fantastic if you’re prone to leaks or accidents like me.

Filtration Technology & Effectiveness

The heart of this system is its five-stage filtration process. It includes sediment filtration, activated carbon filters, and the reverse osmosis membrane itself. I tested the water with a TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) meter before and after installation. The water from my regular tap registered at 250 ppm, while water from the system dropped down to an impressive 15 ppm. That’s a massive difference!

This system claims to reduce up to 99.99% of contaminants like lead, chlorine, fluoride, and even arsenic. I can’t say I tested for all of those, but I definitely noticed the absence of the chlorine smell in my water. Plus, the coconut carbon filters add a subtle, natural taste that’s hard to beat.

Features

The system comes equipped with a four-gallon storage tank and a sleek faucet. The tank itself is compact yet holds enough water for daily drinking and cooking needs. One feature that surprised me was its ability to be wall-mounted or cabinet-mounted. This flexibility makes it versatile for different kitchen layouts.

The faucet delivers water at 0.8 gallons per minute, which is faster than other systems I’ve used. It’s also compatible with both 3/8″ and 1/2″ connections, making it adaptable for older and newer plumbing setups. Let’s not forget the built-in emergency leak stop detector—this might just be my favorite feature, as it adds a layer of protection against potential water damage.

Capacity & Suitability

With a capacity of 50 gallons per day, this system is more than capable of meeting the needs of a small family or even a home with moderate water usage. I tested its performance during a busy weekend, filling water bottles, cooking, and even connecting it to my refrigerator’s ice maker. It kept up like a champ without any noticeable drop in performance.

This system is ideal for both residential and office use. I’ve even heard of people installing it in RVs, although you might need extra tubing and a booster pump for that setup. If you’re considering it for a larger household, you might need a higher-capacity system, but for average use, this one is perfect.

Filter Lifespan & Replacement

The included filters are enough for the first year of use, which is reassuring. The pre-filters (sediment and carbon) need replacing every six months, while the reverse osmosis membrane can last up to two years. Replacements are easy to find and reasonably priced, which is a relief.

Swapping out the filters was a breeze when I practiced it during installation. The filter housing wrench made the job simple, and the push-fit design ensured there were no leaks after replacement. I highly recommend keeping a schedule or setting reminders for replacements—clean water is worth the extra effort.

Flow Rate & Performance

This system offers a maximum flow rate of 181 liters per hour, which translates to about 0.8 gallons per minute at the faucet. In my experience, this is fast enough for most daily tasks, whether it’s filling a pot for pasta or a glass of water.

The water flow felt consistent, and the tank refilled quickly after use. However, the system does discharge one to three gallons of wastewater for every gallon of filtered water produced. This is typical for reverse osmosis systems but is worth keeping in mind if you’re concerned about water efficiency.

Certifications

One of the things that gave me peace of mind was the NSF certification. This means the system has been independently tested for safety and effectiveness. It’s reassuring to know that the water flowing from my faucet meets strict standards. I wouldn’t have considered a system without this kind of certification.

Warranty

The product includes a one-year warranty, which covers defects and issues with the system. While it’s not the longest warranty I’ve seen, it’s decent for a product in this price range. I haven’t had to use it, but other reviews suggest that the customer service team is responsive and helpful.

Advantages

Here are a few boons I noticed:

• Excellent water quality with significant TDS reduction.
• Straightforward installation process with clear instructions.
• Compact and versatile design fits under most sinks.
• NSF certification ensures reliable filtration.
• Emergency leak detection adds peace of mind.

Drawbacks

That said, there are a few negative attributes worth mentioning:

• Produces wastewater at a 1:3 ratio, which may bother eco-conscious users.
• The faucet installation was slightly tricky without the right tools.
• Additional tubing might be required for non-standard setups.

Product Rivals

Comparing this system to others like the APEC ROES-50 or iSpring RCC7, the Express Water RO5DX holds its own. The APEC model offers similar filtration but lacks the leak detection system, while the iSpring system is slightly bulkier. Both competitors are priced similarly, but the RO5DX edges out with its user-friendly design and faster flow rate. However, the iSpring offers a UV filter add-on, making it better for well water users concerned about bacteria and viruses.

Cost-Efficiency

In terms of money’s worth, this system delivers exceptional value. While the upfront cost is moderate, the long-term savings on bottled water and reduced environmental impact make it a smart investment. Its durability and ease of maintenance further justify the price. If you’re after quality water without breaking the bank, this system is a great choice.

Additional information