Frequently asked questions

Yes. We ran a real-world test: we sent a single-family Arlington, VA home's kitchen tap water and the same water after the Hydra system to an independent accredited laboratory (Microbac Laboratories, via Tap Score/SimpleLab) under standard EPA methods. The tap water came back over the health-based guideline for three disinfection byproducts. After the Hydra, total trihalomethanes (THMs) dropped 95% (58 to 2.79 ppb), and copper, sulfate, barium, strontium and total dissolved solids were all reduced by roughly 72-99%. You can see every measured number, with the lab report IDs, on our Arlington Test page at /proof.

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are synthetic "forever chemicals" used in nonstick cookware, waterproof fabrics, and firefighting foams. They persist in the environment and human body for decades and are linked to cancer, thyroid disorders, immune system issues, and reproductive problems. Our RO system's semi-permeable membrane has pores small enough to block large PFAS molecules while allowing water molecules to pass through, significantly reducing PFAS levels in your drinking water.

Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that interfere with hormone balance. They include phthalates, pesticides, and disinfection byproducts. These contaminants can affect fertility, development, reproductive health, and children's growth, even at very low levels. Standard municipal treatment cannot reliably remove them, but RO can significantly reduce their presence, offering essential protection for families.

RO reduces heavy metals (lead, mercury, arsenic), chemicals (chlorine, VOCs, pesticides), PFAS (forever chemicals), nitrates from fertilizers, sulfates from industrial waste, and many emerging contaminants.

Reverse osmosis pushes water through a semi-permeable membrane under pressure. The membrane's tiny pores allow only water molecules to pass while trapping contaminants like heavy metals, chemicals, pathogens, and dissolved solids. The result is clean, safe, great-tasting water.

Climate change, urban growth, and industrial pollution are stressing freshwater supplies worldwide. Chemicals like PFAS, microplastics, and industrial residues are now found in treated water systems across the U.S. Aging infrastructure can also reintroduce contaminants after water leaves treatment plants. Home filtration offers a needed safety net between the water source and your tap.

No. Most kitchens take about 45 minutes, following the included step-by-step guide, plus an automatic 30-minute rinse. Around DC, you can choose professional installation instead.

An adjustable wrench and a pair of scissors for the tubing, plus a towel or bucket for drips. Teflon tape, tubing and every fitting come in the box. You only need a drill with a hole saw bit if there is no spare sink hole for the faucet.

Every 12 months. Replace both Hydra cartridges together once a year; the filter bundle is both of them. Heavy use or water with more sediment can mean sooner, and slower flow at the faucet is the sign.

Annual filter costs are significantly lower than buying bottled water weekly, and you eliminate plastic waste. It's a smart long-term investment for your health and the environment.

Signs include: reduced water flow, change in taste or odor, or reaching the recommended time intervals. On the Hydra, a rising reading on its real-time TDS display is another sign the cartridges are due.

Every RO system sends some water down the drain: it carries away the contaminants the membrane holds back, and how much depends on the system and your water pressure. That water can be repurposed for plants, cleaning, or other non-drinking uses. The health benefits and elimination of bottled plastic far outweigh this consideration.

You can reach our support team via email at support@sanaviawater.com or through our contact page. We typically respond within 24 hours.