Waterdrop X16 Alkaline RO System: features, specs and who it suits

The Waterdrop X16 is a tankless under-sink reverse osmosis (RO) system with a mineralization stage and a digital faucet in a gold finish. It is rated at 1600 gallons per day and uses an 11-stage filter set. Here is what the headline specs mean and what to check before installing one.

Reverse osmosis in brief

RO pushes water through a very fine membrane that holds back most dissolved substances, with carbon and sediment stages before and after it. The water that doesn't pass the membrane carries the rejected material to the drain. Because RO removes most minerals, some systems add a stage that puts minerals back, which is what the X16 does.

Certifications and filtration

Waterdrop says the system was tested and certified by IAPMO R&T against NSF/ANSI 42, 58 and 372, and tested by SGS for the reduction of TDS, PFOA, PFOS, chlorine, fluoride, arsenic, lead and other substances. NSF/ANSI 58 is the standard for RO systems; 42 covers chlorine, taste and odour, and 372 covers lead content of materials. The filter is listed as 11 stages with a 0.0001 μm RO membrane made from 18 layers. Certificates apply to specific models and test conditions, so check the documentation.

The mineralization stage

Waterdrop says its PCC mineralization technology uses mineral crystals to add minerals back and produce slightly alkaline water with a smoother taste. It adds a note that the F1A replacement filter, which contains the alkaline mineralization filter, may cause a slight increase in TDS. Taste is personal, and this stage is optional in the sense that many RO users don't want one.

Tankless and 1600 GPD

A tankless system makes water on demand instead of storing it under pressure. Waterdrop quotes a 1600 GPD peak capacity, and says it fills a 6 oz cup in about two seconds. The GPD number is a production figure, not a measure of daily use. The unit measures about 18.2 x 6.3 x 16.7 inches (46 x 16 x 42 cm).

Water and energy use

The brand lists a 3:1 pure-to-drain ratio, meaning one part of drain water for every three parts of purified water, and an energy-saving mode with quiet operation and 40 per cent lower energy use. These figures are Waterdrop's.

Digital faucet

The faucet has volume control and shows real-time TDS and filter life. Waterdrop says an integrated waterway supports automatic water shut-off when a filter is replaced, which is intended to simplify changes.

Installation

RO systems need a cold water supply, a drain connection, a power outlet and a faucet hole in the sink or counter. Follow the manual and local plumbing codes, or hire a plumber if you are unsure.

Who it suits

It suits households that want RO water on demand with minerals added back, and that have the under-sink space, power and drain access.

What to check before you buy

• Space: measure the cabinet for the 18.2 x 6.3 x 16.7 inch unit and pipe access.
• Faucet hole: confirm you can fit the faucet.
• Power and drain: you will need an outlet and a drain connection.
• Water pressure: check the supply against the manual's requirements.
• Filters: note the replacement schedule and parts, including the F1A.
• TDS: the mineralization stage can raise readings slightly.

The short version

• Tankless under-sink RO system rated at 1600 GPD, with 11 filtration stages.
• Certified by IAPMO R&T to NSF/ANSI 42, 58 and 372, per Waterdrop.
• Mineralization stage for slightly alkaline water.
• 3:1 pure-to-drain ratio and an energy-saving mode.
• Digital faucet with TDS and filter-life display.

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