True Cost Guide Environmental Safety Install a Reverse Osmosis System

How Much Does a Reverse Osmosis System Cost?

Typical Range:

$150 - $20,000

Cost data is based on research by HomeAdvisor.

Updated September 29, 2020

Written by HomeAdvisor.

Reverse Osmosis System Prices

Installing a whole home reverse osmosis (RO) water filtration system costs $1,500 on average or typically between $500 and $2,800. Point of use RO systems run $150 to $1,300. Commercial grade systems typically run $1,000 to $20,000 or more. Main pricing factors includes how many stages you need for your water and how much water you need filtered.

RO systems filter water through a membrane, usually using a 3 or more stage process to remove impurities. It requires regular filter changes but provides excellent drinking water and helps remove things like salts from the water softening process.

You can get these in two types:

Point of Use (POU): Also sometimes called “point-of-service” or “single tap” located at the faucet, treats only that tap, such as a kitchen sink, shower, washer and fridge.
Point of Entry (POE): Treats at the point where it enters your home, the main water line. Excellent for homes with water softeners or particularly hard or chlorinated water.

Average Cost of a Reverse Osmosis Water System

Average Cost	$1,500
High Cost	$20,000
Low Cost	$150

Whole House Reverse Osmosis System Cost

A whole house reverse osmosis system costs $800 to $2,800 on average. It’s also known as a point-of-entry system since it treats water at the main line that enters your home. It’s great for homes with:

Hard water
A water softener (to remove sodium)
High chlorine levels
Well water
Rainwater use

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Single Tap RO System Cost

A single tap or point-of-use RO system installation costs $150 to $1,300. Materials alone run $50 to $1,000. These systems get installed under sinks, behind refrigerators and near washing machines, depending on where you need them. They eliminate wasted water for things like showers and lawn care.

Commercial or Large Reverse Osmosis System Cost

Commercial or large reverse osmosis systems cost $500 to $20,000, not including installation which can range from $500 to $2,000 or more. They’re used heavily in the restaurant, hotel and brewery industries. These high capacity systems allow a high flow of water through for multiple points of use or quickly filling large capacity tanks, such as a brewery or distillery would need.

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Reverse Osmosis System Installation Cost

Labor costs to install a reverse osmosis filter system runs $300 to $700 on average. Complex installs or those with minimal space or accessibility issues might reach $1,500. Point of use systems only cost $100 to $300 to install. Countertop and under sink installs often come with easy to follow DIY instructions. However, doing it yourself means you’re responsible for any water damage caused by improper installation.

RO System Prices by Brand

Brand	Material Price Estimate
Culligan	$60 - $2,000+
GE Pro Elite	$200 - $500
Ero 375	$300+

DIY RO System Installation vs. Hire a Pro

DIY RO point of use systems make great DIY projects, but you do run the risk of causing water damage if you don’t make all the connections correctly. Hiring a professional installer might cost slightly more at $100 to $300 for small units or up to $1,000 for whole house systems, but it comes with the professional’s warranty. Find a local plumber or local water softener installer for a free consultation.

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FAQs

How much does reverse osmosis water cost per gallon?

Reverse osmosis filtered water costs about $3.50 per 1,000 gallons or about $0.004 per gallon.

How much does reverse osmosis system maintenance cost?

Reverse osmosis water treatment repairs cost $150 to $800 on average.

Is reverse osmosis worth the cost?

Reverse osmosis is worth the cost, considering the average person spends $400 to $1,000 (sometimes more) per year for bottled water.

Is a whole house reverse osmosis system necessary?

A whole house reverse osmosis system is necessary for some water conditions. Contact a plumber or water filtration specialist to find out if you water and home need it.