Does reverse osmosis remove fluoride?

Yes. RO membranes remove approximately 85–95% of fluoride. If fluoride retention is important to you, discuss this with us — we can configure the system accordingly.

Is RO water safe to drink every day?

Yes. Our system includes a remineralization stage that adds back beneficial calcium and magnesium, so you're not drinking demineralized water. The alkaline post-filter also raises pH to a healthy range.

How much water does an RO system waste?

Traditional RO systems waste 3–4 gallons per gallon produced. Our system uses a permeate pump that reduces waste to approximately 1:1, significantly better than older designs.

How often do filters need to be replaced?

Pre-filters every 6–12 months, the RO membrane every 2–3 years, and post-filters annually. We offer a service plan that handles all replacements on schedule.

Can I install an RO system myself?

DIY kits exist, but professional installation ensures proper connections, correct pressure, and a leak-free setup under your sink. We install and test every system we sell.

Reverse osmosis explained

Why Reverse Osmosis Is the Gold Standard for Drinking Water

Columbus water is treated and safe. But treatment leaves behind chloramine, disinfection byproducts, and trace contaminants. Reverse osmosis removes 99% of what's left.

99%

Contaminants removed by RO

30+

Contaminants in Columbus tap water

$1,200

Average annual bottled water spend

See our alkaline RO system (614) 476-8711

What's actually in Columbus tap water?

Columbus Water Works delivers water that meets all EPA safety standards. That's genuinely good news. But 'meets standards' means contaminants are present at levels regulators consider acceptable — not that they're absent.

Columbus uses chloramine (chlorine + ammonia) to disinfect the water supply. Chloramine is effective at killing bacteria but creates disinfection byproducts, leaves a chemical taste and smell, and is harder to remove than free chlorine. Standard carbon filters slow it down — reverse osmosis is designed to address it more thoroughly.

The 2024 Columbus Water Quality Report also shows detectable levels of trihalomethanes, haloacetic acids, and trace amounts of PFAS compounds. All within legal limits. All removed by a quality RO system.

How reverse osmosis works

Sediment pre-filter

Removes particles, rust, and sediment that would clog the RO membrane. Protects the system and extends membrane life.

Carbon block pre-filter

Removes chloramine, chlorine, volatile organic compounds, and taste/odor compounds before water reaches the membrane.

RO membrane

The core of the system. A semi-permeable membrane with pores 0.0001 microns wide — small enough to block dissolved salts, heavy metals, PFAS, nitrates, and most other contaminants.

Remineralization filter

Adds back beneficial calcium and magnesium minerals that were removed with contaminants. Improves taste and raises pH naturally.

Alkaline post-filter

Raises pH to 8.0–9.5 for a clean, slightly alkaline taste. Many people find alkaline water noticeably smoother and more refreshing.

What reverse osmosis removes

Disinfection chemicals

Chloramine

Chlorine

Chlorine byproducts

Heavy metals

Lead

Arsenic

Chromium

Cadmium

Emerging contaminants

PFAS / PFOA / PFOS

Pharmaceuticals

Microplastics

Agricultural runoff

Nitrates

Nitrites

Herbicides

Pesticides

Dissolved solids

Fluoride

Sodium

Sulfates

Total dissolved solids

Signs you'd benefit from an RO system

Your water tastes or smells like chlorine

Columbus uses chloramine disinfection. The taste and smell are harmless but unpleasant — and a sign of what else may be present.

You buy bottled water regularly

If you're spending $30–$100/month on bottled water to avoid tap taste, an RO system pays for itself in 1–2 years.

You have a new baby or are pregnant

Nitrates and other contaminants are a greater concern for infants. RO removes nitrates that boiling does not.

You have a compromised immune system

RO provides an additional layer of protection beyond municipal treatment for immunocompromised household members.

Your coffee or tea tastes off

Water is 98% of your cup. Chloramine and dissolved minerals directly affect flavor extraction and final taste.

You're concerned about PFAS or lead

Columbus water meets legal limits, but RO removes PFAS compounds and lead to near-zero levels — well below any regulatory threshold.

Frequently asked questions

See what's in your water before you decide

A free in-home water test measures your TDS, pH, chlorine, and hardness. We'll show you exactly what an RO system would remove from your specific water supply.

Schedule a free water test Call (614) 476-8711