Oh, it does. Old-school RO systems waste about 3-4 gallons for every 1 gallon of clean water. That’s like ordering a pizza and throwing away half the crust.
But modern ones? They’re getting smarter. Some models, like Waterdrop G3, reduce waste by 80%. They’re basically the eco-warriors of filtration.
Pro tip: Look for a system with a “permeate pump.” It’s a tiny gadget that boosts efficiency. Your wallet and planet will high-five you.
What about maintenance? (Be honest)
You can’t just install it and ghost it. Filters need swapping every 6-12 months. The membrane lasts 2-3 years.
Think of it like changing your car’s oil. Skip it, and your water turns into a rusty swamp. Gross.
How Whole House Reverse Osmosis Systems Work
But the cool part? Most systems have color-coded cartridges. It’s practically Legos for adults.