Frequently Asked Questions

Our system is NSF certified under 7 different standards (42, 44, 53, 55, 58, 61, and 62), which is one of the most comprehensive certifications available. This means it's been independently tested to remove heavy metals, chemicals, PFAS, microorganisms, and ensure all materials are safe and non-leaching.

Yes, RO removes most minerals along with contaminants. However, you get the vast majority of your essential minerals from food, not water. A single serving of spinach, almonds, or yogurt provides more calcium and magnesium than you'd get from drinking water all day.

The priority is removing harmful contaminants like lead, arsenic, PFAS, and microplastics—which pose real health risks. Clean water free of toxins is far more important than trace minerals you're already getting abundantly from your diet.

PFAS (per/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 by-products. 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 removes: Heavy metals (lead, mercury, arsenic), microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, protozoa), 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.

Our system is certified under 7 NSF/ANSI standards:

NSF 42: Improves taste and odor, reduces chlorine
NSF 44: Reduces water hardness (calcium, magnesium)
NSF 53: Removes health contaminants (lead, VOCs, heavy metals)
NSF 55: UV treatment for microbial control
NSF 58: RO system performance and contaminant removal
NSF 61: Ensures materials don't leach harmful substances
NSF 62: Distillation system safety and performance

These certifications confirm the system is rigorously tested and verified by independent labs.

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.

Most systems come with detailed instructions and can be installed by homeowners with basic plumbing knowledge in 1-2 hours. Professional installation is also available if you prefer expert help.

You'll need: adjustable wrench, drill with hole saw bit (for faucet installation), Teflon tape, and a bucket. All necessary tubing and fittings are included with the system.

Pre/Post Carbon filters: Every 6-12 months
RO Membrane: Every 24-36 months
Intervals vary based on your water quality and usage. We recommend setting calendar reminders.

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. Some models include filter life indicators that alert you when it's time to replace.

RO systems do produce wastewater during filtration (typically 3-4 gallons of waste per 1 gallon of pure water). However, this "waste" 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@sanavia.com or through our contact page. We typically respond within 24 hours.