Is Your Water Filter Actually Protecting You?

louise selda
Aug 6
3 min read

Updated: Aug 12

Why Certification Matters: Certified Reverse Osmosis Systems in Canada

Even though most Canadian cities supply relatively clean tap water, many families still choose a water filtration system for home or reverse osmosis water filter to ensure added safety, taste, and long-term health. But with so many options ranging from under $300 to over $1,500 CAD how do you know which system is worth your investment?

Let’s explore what reverse osmosis systems actually are, how they work, and why certification and remineralization should always be on your checklist.

What Is Reverse Osmosis and How Does It Work?

Reverse osmosis (RO) is a water purification process that uses pressure to force water through a semi-permeable membrane. This membrane filters out up to 99% of:

heavy metals (like lead and arsenic)
fluoride
chlorine and chloramine
PFAS ("forever chemicals")
bacteria and viruses
microplastics
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)

Most home RO systems in Canada follow a multi-stage process:

Sediment filter – removes dirt, rust, sand
Carbon block filter – removes chlorine and chemical odors
RO membrane – eliminates contaminants at the molecular level
Post carbon filter – polishes taste
Remineralization cartridge (optional but recommended) – adds back healthy minerals and balances pH

This delivers clean, crisp, and safe water directly from your kitchen tap.

Why NSF/ANSI Certification Matters in Canada

Not all RO systems are created equal. While many cheap water filtration units may claim to remove contaminants, they often lack third-party testing to prove it.

Look specifically for NSF/ANSI 58 certification for reverse osmosis systems. This standard ensures:

verified contaminant removal
safe materials that won’t leach toxins
structural integrity and pressure tolerance
truthful performance claims

In Canada, this certification gives peace of mind that your system meets internationally recognized safety and performance standards.

Many uncertified systems on the market use low-grade plastics, inferior membranes, and may not remove key contaminants like lead or PFAS, even if they claim to.

The Real Reason Certified RO Systems Cost More

You may notice certified systems are more expensive—but here’s what you’re paying for:

independently tested filtration results
durable, food-grade materials
proven membrane longevity
long warranties and trustworthy support
compatibility with Canadian plumbing codes and water chemistry

It’s not just about filtered water it’s about knowing your system is actually protecting your health.

A Hidden Concern: RO Removes Good Minerals Too

Reverse osmosis doesn’t discriminate between good and bad. While it removes harmful pollutants, it also strips beneficial minerals such as:

calcium
magnesium
potassium

This can lead to:

flat or acidic-tasting water
decreased hydration for some individuals
long-term mineral imbalance if no dietary compensation is made

In Canada, where we have naturally hard water in many provinces (including Saskatchewan, Ontario, and Alberta), RO systems can drastically soften water sometimes too much.

Why Remineralization Is Essential in RO Systems

To offset mineral loss, many high-quality systems now come with a remineralization stage. This:

adds back calcium and magnesium
balances the pH to neutral or alkaline
improves taste and hydration
protects plumbing and appliance life

If you're drinking RO water exclusively, remineralization isn’t optional it’s essential.

What to Look for When Buying a RO System in Canada

When choosing a reverse osmosis water filter system for your home in Canada, make sure it includes:

NSF/ANSI 58 and 372 certification
4+ stages of filtration
Remineralization cartridge
Low wastewater ratio (1:1 or 2:1)
Clear TDS reduction ratings
Reasonable filter replacement schedule
Canadian warranty and support

Also consider a TDS meter to help monitor your system’s effectiveness. It’s a small investment that ensures your system is working.

Why Serenity Water Systems Are a Trusted Choice in Canada

At Serenity Water Systems, our RO units are engineered for Canadian homes and meet all major standards:

Certified to NSF/ANSI 58, 42 and 372
Multi-stage systems with built-in remineralization
Effective reduction of lead, fluoride, chlorine, PFAS, and more
Lifetime warranty and full Canadian support
Free water quality tests in Saskatchewan and surrounding areas

We believe your water should be clean, safe, and balanced not just filtered.

Final Takeaway

Choosing a reverse osmosis water filtration system in Canada isn’t just about buying a filter it’s about making a long-term investment in your family’s health. Always choose: