iSpring RCC7AK Review

What sets this RO system apart is its combination of thorough filtration and relative affordability. The iSpring RCC7AK includes a 6-stage process with a dedicated alkaline remineralization filter, built from FDA-approved, food-grade materials, and constructed for durability. This removes nearly all critical contaminants that we tested for, as well as most common heavy metals.

The big issue here is its size. Reverse osmosis systems sound great until you try to install one. While installation requires effort, the system's long-term filter costs are reasonable, making it a strong choice for households seeking high-quality purification at an affordable price.

Critical Contaminant Removal

We sent samples of filtered water from a tap source, as well as a home-made super-contaminated water source, to an independent lab to test for contaminant removal. The iSpring RCC7AK excels at removing the most concerning contaminants, but it is not as effective as other reverse osmosis (RO) systems. On the plus side, it showed fluoride reduction at around 97–99%, which is significantly above average for the tested group.

PFAS Forever Chemicals

PFAS reduction is not as effective as that of some competitors, but it is still significant, with tests showing approximately a 90% removal for PFNA and 100% removal of PFBA (both are subtypes of PFAS chemicals). However, our tester wrote, “If PFNA was a main concern, I would look at ones that removed it to below detectable levels.” Every other RO system in our lineup was able to remove 100% of these chemicals, as well as a few pitcher models.

Heavy Metals

In testing, it removed 100% of lead, arsenic, and uranium. If you know you have higher concentrations of these metals in your tap water, this filter will take care of them. Even if metal concentrations in your tap water are below the recommended limit, and you just want extra peace of mind, the iSpring is good for that, too.

Secondary Contaminant Removal

This system performs strongly against a broad spectrum of trace elements and minerals, reducing copper, barium, vanadium, lithium, and molybdenum to near-zero levels. Some trace elements may increase slightly due to the remineralization stage of the alkaline filter, but levels remain below safe limits.

Taste

The added alkaline filter enhances the water taste, producing a naturally balanced pH level. Most users prefer this water over bottled alternatives. Some initial flushing may be required to remove a slight plastic or first-use taste, but quality gets up to speed in no time. Taste is subjective, of course, but the vast majority of online reviews that mention taste are positive when it comes to this RO system.

Maintenance and Setup

Installation is more involved than pitcher or countertop units, requiring under-sink space and the commitment of drilling a hole into both your pipe and countertop. Depending on how handy you are, you may be able to pull it off yourself, but most will need to contract a professional to get the system installed properly.

Maintenance is infrequent, but it's a pain in the butt, according to our tester. Changing filters is more complex, and hard to do without making a mess, although color-coded tubing and clear housing help indicate when replacement filters are needed. Before purchasing and attempting installation, make sure you have enough under-sink space for this system — it measures 15.5"L × 5.1"W × 19"H and weighs 25 lbs, so it's fairly sizable compared to other standard RO units.

Operating Cost

Replacement filters are reasonably priced relative to other RO systems: pre-filters last 6–12 months, the membrane 1–3 years, and the alkaline filter 6–12 months. When costs are distributed evenly over the three years (including replacement filters), this system will run you about $95 annually, which is pretty average for RO systems. The iSpring has a much lower cost for high water usage than every pitcher filter we tested, so if you live in a larger household, this would be a good choice.

Should You Buy the iSpring RCC7AK?

The iSpring RCC7AK is best suited for homeowners who want thorough water purification and have the space and budget for an RO system. It's ideal if you have the space, patience, and confidence for DIY installation and don't mind generating some wastewater in exchange for cleaner, better-tasting water. Avoid this system if under-sink space is tight, you prefer a simpler setup, or you need a quick, plug-and-play solution. Its combination of filtration quality and reasonable long-term costs makes it a strong option for those willing to invest the effort upfront.

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