I get where you’re coming from—after a pipe burst in our old place, I started double-filtering too. We had a UF setup, but after that mess, I added UV just for peace of mind. Maybe it’s overkill, but honestly, I’d rather swap a bulb now and then than deal with another round of stomach issues. Sometimes those “what ifs” are worth listening to... especially if you’ve ever had to boil water for a week straight.
“Maybe it’s overkill, but honestly, I’d rather swap a bulb now and then than deal with another round of stomach issues.”
- Can’t argue with that logic. I’ve seen what happens when folks skip the “overkill” and just hope for the best—usually ends up with a plumber’s bill and a lot of bottled water receipts.
- After managing enough buildings, I’m convinced water is out to get us. One minute it’s clear, next minute it’s brown sludge pouring from the tap. UF + UV is like putting on both belt and suspenders… and maybe a raincoat just in case.
- Funny thing is, people always ask if it’s “too much.” But after you’ve had to post those “boil water advisory” signs in every hallway, you start thinking there’s no such thing as too much. Swapping a UV bulb is nothing compared to fielding calls about mystery rashes.
- RO is great, but I’ve seen tenants lose their minds over the slow refill time and all the wasted water. UF/UV combo keeps things moving—plus, fewer complaints about “why does my tea taste weird?”
- Only downside: explaining to folks why there are so many tubes under their sink now. I just tell them it’s modern art. Most don’t question it.
Honestly, peace of mind is worth a little extra hassle. The only thing worse than a burst pipe is realizing your backup plan was just wishful thinking… or that you’re out of clean coffee water on Monday morning.
I get the appeal of UF/UV—less water waste and you don’t have to wait forever for a glass. I do wonder, though, how folks are handling maintenance costs over time. RO filters can be pricey, but those UV bulbs and extra cartridges aren’t exactly cheap either. Has anyone tracked their annual spend after switching? I’m always trying to balance upfront savings with long-term costs... especially when every little bit adds up these days.
I switched from RO to UF/UV about two years ago, and I’ve kept a spreadsheet to track costs (I’m a bit obsessive, honestly). The first year, the UV bulb and two UF cartridges set me back about $60 total, which was less than my old RO filters. But the second year, I needed a new flow restrictor and some extra pre-filters, so it was closer to $90. Still, it’s been more predictable than the random big RO filter changes. Anyone else notice the UV bulbs don’t last as long as advertised? Or maybe my power surges are to blame...
Anyone else notice the UV bulbs don’t last as long as advertised? Or maybe my power surges are to blame...
I’ve had the same issue with UV bulbs—advertised for a year, but I’m lucky if I get 8-9 months. I do suspect voltage spikes are part of it. We had a couple brownouts last summer and my bulb fizzled out right after. It’s still cheaper than those surprise RO membrane swaps, though. I actually like knowing when to expect the expense, even if it’s a bit more frequent than the packaging claims.
