Reverse-osmosis Systems
Reverse-osmosis Systems | Water Purification | Plumbing | Andersonville
Discover how crystal-clear, great-tasting water can flow from every tap in your Andersonville home with HEP’s expertly installed reverse-osmosis systems. Our licensed plumbers replace guesswork with precision, routing dedicated supply lines and high-performance membranes that strip away lead, chlorine, PFAS, and up to 99% of dissolved solids. The result is a silky, odor-free pour that elevates morning coffee, safeguards baby formula, and extends the life of your appliances—all while slashing single-use plastic bottles.
From initial water test to final pressure check, we handle every step in-house, so you enjoy seamless service, transparent pricing, and a rock-solid warranty. Join neighbors who’ve already turned to HEP for worry-free water purification and feel the difference each time you turn on the faucet. Schedule your free consultation today and taste what you’ve been missing!
FAQs
How does a reverse-osmosis (RO) system purify Andersonville tap water?
A residential RO unit forces municipal water through a semipermeable membrane that has microscopic pores (≈0.0001 micron). Dissolved salts, chlorine by-products, lead, arsenic, PFAS, nitrates, micro-plastics, and most organic contaminants are flushed to drain, while only H₂O molecules pass through to the storage tank. Because Chicago’s treatment plants add chlorine, fluoride, and corrosion-control phosphates, an RO system gives Andersonville homeowners an additional polishing step that removes up to 99 % of these additives along with any residual taste or odor picked up in aging distribution pipes.
Will I need a dedicated drinking-water faucet and can the system fit under my existing kitchen sink?
Yes. RO systems deliver purified water through a separate, lead-free faucet mounted at the sink or countertop. This keeps the low-pressure, bacteria-free product water isolated from your regular plumbing lines. Most 4–5 stage under-sink units are 15–18 in. high, 14–15 in. wide, and come with a 3–4 gal pressurized storage tank, so they fit into standard 36-in. base cabinets. During installation we relocate cleaning supplies and garbage disposers if needed, and we can drill granite, quartz, or stainless steel tops without damage.
How much water does an RO system waste, and are there high-efficiency models?
Traditional RO units send 3–4 gallons of brine to the drain for every gallon of purified water produced. However, new 1:1 or 2:1 recovery-ratio systems cut that waste by up to 75 %. We stock pump-assisted models that sense back pressure and recycle part of the reject stream, a big plus for Andersonville customers concerned about sustainability and water bills. On average, even a conventional unit adds only 30–50 ¢ to a monthly bill because Chicago’s water rates are low, but high-efficiency options are available for the eco-minded.
How often do I need to replace RO filters and the membrane given local water quality?
With Andersonville’s moderately hard water (about 130 ppm) and 1.5–2 ppm chlorine residual, the standard schedule is: sediment pre-filter every 6 months, carbon block every 6–12 months, and the RO membrane every 24–36 months. If you notice flow slowing down or the TDS reading rising above 15 % of feed water TDS, it’s time for service sooner. We offer annual maintenance plans that include filter swaps, sanitizing, and a free TDS test so you never have to track dates yourself.
Will installing an RO system reduce water pressure or affect other fixtures?
No. The RO unit taps into the cold-water supply with a saddle or tee valve and draws only 0.3–0.5 gal/min while filling its own tank. Because it uses an independent ¼-in. line and a small pump or air-charged tank to deliver water to the RO faucet, it does not restrict pressure to the main kitchen faucet, dishwasher, or refrigerator. If you choose to feed your ice maker from the RO tank, we install a permeate pump so that ice production and drinking-water flow both stay strong.
Can I install the system myself, or do I need a licensed plumber in Andersonville?
Handy homeowners can follow the manufacturer’s instructions, but Chicago’s plumbing code requires all devices that connect to potable water lines to have certified backflow protection. Hiring a licensed plumber ensures the installation meets local regulations, prevents leaks in tight condo cabinets, and maintains the system warranty. Our team pulls the correct permits when needed, pressure-tests the saddle valve connection, and labels the shut-off so building inspectors and condo boards know the RO system is code-compliant.