Guides · 6 min
Whole-home filtration vs under-sink RO: which do you need?
Most Canadian homes benefit from both — a point-of-entry system for every tap, plus reverse osmosis for drinking water. Here's how to decide.
By WaterFilterHelp Editorial Team · Reviewed by WaterFilterHelp Standards Review · Last reviewed 2026-08-23
Start with your water source
Municipal and well-water treatment should follow the actual report and household goal rather than a default equipment stack. Wells may need iron, sulphur or bacteria treatment; municipal supplies vary by city.
Whole-home (point of entry)
Treats every tap: showers, laundry and dishwashers. Softeners address measured hardness; carbon and sediment media address model-specific aesthetic claims.
Under-sink RO
Treats one drinking and cooking tap. For PFAS, lead or nitrate, verify the exact model’s NSF/ANSI 58 contaminant-reduction claim and confirm health-related results with an accredited lab.
Sensible sequence
- Accredited test where a health contaminant is suspected
- Source correction where possible
- Treatment with the exact certified claim
- Paired post-installation verification
Request a local quote only after the water problem and required claim are clear.