Water quality is a major concern for a lot of Maine homeowners. While this region is blessed with abundant water resources, the water here naturally carries a lot of minerals, which is why it becomes important to filter it. Two of the most popular solutions for water filtration include reverse osmosis systems and whole-home water filtration systems. Let’s explore the pros, cons, and cost differences between these two systems so you can make the best choice for your home.

Reverse Osmosis Systems

Reverse osmosis is an effective water filtration method in which water is pushed through a semi-permeable membrane to filter out a range of contaminants.

Pros

• Excellent Contaminant Removal: They can remove up to 99% of contaminants: including iron, lead, arsenic, pesticides and even bacteria, making it one of the most dependable water treatment options available.

• Improved Taste and Odor: By removing chlorine, sediments, and dissolved minerals, RO offers water that tastes clean and fresh. 

• Point-of-Use Convenience: They can be easily installed in even small spaces like under the kitchen sink; providing high-quality water whenever you need it for drinking and cooking

Cons

• Not Whole-House Coverage: These systems treat water only at one tap, which means that the water you get from other taps, showers, and appliances in your home still use untreated water. 

• Water Waste: These systems waste a few gallons of water for every gallon that gets filtered. While newer models are efficient, water wastage is still a drawback of RO systems.

• Maintenance Costs: The filters and membranes in these systems need to be periodically replaced, which can add to the maintenance costs.

Whole-Home Filtration Systems

Whole Home Filtration Systems treat all the water that enters your home. Many homeowners get their systems customized to address specific water issues in their area.

Pros

• Comprehensive Coverage: These systems deliver filtered water throughout your home, which means you get contaminant-free water for showers, laundry, cooking, drinking, and more. 

• Targeted Solutions: These systems can be customized to address specific issues such as iron staining, hard water issues, sulfur odors, etc. 

• Long-Term Benefits: These systems prevent damage and increase the lifespan of your appliances and plumbing by providing high-quality water.

Cons

• Not As Effective: Although these systems can remove contaminants like iron, chlorine and sediments, they cannot remove arsenic and nitrates unless paired with specialized filters. 

• Higher Upfront Cost: The installation and customization of these systems can be more expensive than point-of-use filters.

• Ongoing Maintenance: These systems require filter replacements every 6-12 months, depending on the water quality, which can add to the long-term expenses.

Which One Is Right for You?

If you want to remove a wide range of contaminants from your water, then an RO system would be a better choice. It is affordable, offers targeted water filtration, and provides great-tasting water right in your kitchen. 

If you want to elevate the water quality throughout your home and your primary water issues include iron, sulfur, or hard water minerals, then a whole-home system would be a better investment for you. 
Get in touch with Air & Water Quality today for top-notch water filtration solutions. Our team will help you explore options, such as RO and a whole-home filter in Maine.