Homeowners in Cary and Apex have access to treated municipal water that meets all regulatory safety standards. But for families who want an extra layer of assurance — whether around PFAS, chlorine byproducts, or general water purity — reverse osmosis drinking water systems are an increasingly popular choice. Here's what to expect.
Why Cary and Apex Homeowners Are Choosing RO
Both the Town of Cary and the Town of Apex deliver water that's safe by regulatory standards. That said, regulated compliance allows for trace amounts of many compounds, and as awareness of PFAS, disinfection byproducts, and other contaminants has grown, many homeowners in high-value communities like MacGregor, Amberly, and Chatham Park have chosen RO as a proactive measure.
Others choose RO simply for the taste. Municipal water with chloramines can have a flavor that's noticeably different from purified water. An RO system at the kitchen tap makes an immediate and obvious difference in how water tastes and smells.
What an RO System Delivers
A professionally installed reverse osmosis system under your kitchen sink:
- Connects to your existing cold water supply line --- no major
plumbing work required
- Filters water through a multi-stage process including sediment,
carbon, and the RO membrane
- Stores treated water in a small holding tank (typically 3--5
gallons) under the sink
- Dispenses through a dedicated RO faucet installed at the sink --- a
second, dedicated tap for pure water
- Requires periodic filter changes, typically annually or every 6--12
months depending on usage
The RO Faucet Setup
One thing new RO customers often notice is the dedicated faucet. This second faucet at the sink dispenses only the RO-purified water and is separate from your regular hot and cold handles. Some homeowners choose a matching finish for a streamlined look. It's a subtle but permanent feature of the kitchen that quickly becomes a natural part of the home's routine.
RO and Your Water Softener: A Perfect Pairing
Many Cary and Apex homeowners who already have a water softener add an RO system for drinking water. These systems work very well together. Softened water is gentler on the RO membrane, extending its lifespan. The RO then removes the small amount of sodium added by the ion exchange process along with any other remaining dissolved compounds. The result is the cleanest possible water at the tap.
Is an RO System Right for Your Home?
If you currently buy bottled water, use a pitcher filter, or simply wish your tap water tasted better and felt cleaner — an RO system is very likely worth the investment. The ongoing cost of filter maintenance is modest, and the convenience of unlimited purified water on demand is hard to match.