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Reverse Osmosis is one of the most popular ways to purify water nowadays. However, besides removing the bad minerals, RO filtration also removes the good ones. That’s why manufacturers started making RO systems that add safe minerals to the water. Among all the units, iSpring RCC7AK is definitely one of the best. Let’s see what it has to offer!
iSpring RCC7AK Specifications
Manufacturer: | iSpring |
Incoming Water Pressure: | 45-70 PSI |
Water Temperature: | 40-100F (4-38C) |
Stages: | 6 |
Extra-long life pre-filters: | Three |
Pre-filters: | PP sediment filter. Carbon KDF filter. Carbon block (CTO) filter. |
Production (GPD): | 75 |
Capacity: | 3,2 Gallons |
Filtered Water to Waste Water Ratio (w/ Tank): | 1:3 |
Warranty: | 1 Year |
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Overview
RCC7 is an excellent RO system. However, you can even buy RCC7AK with the feature of water remineralization which is awesome. Not only that it makes water healthier, but it also has a big impact on taste. By raising the pH value, the water becomes more alkaline and gets a much better taste.
Another great thing about RCC7AK is that it produces 75 gallons of clean water every day. The water goes through 6 stages of filtration and flows out cleaner and better tasting. But what about water waste?
Well, the system wastes around 3 gallons of water to produce 1 gallon. When compared to other units, it’s somewhere in between – simply average. However, the water waste also depends on water pressure, so keep that in mind, too.
Design
At first, we noticed that the system uses cartridge filters. They are placed in a plastic filter holder, which looks pretty convenient. But what about the filter replacement?
Honestly, we have seen many systems that provide easier filter replacement than RCC7AK. For example, some systems have filters that easily pull out, and the new ones simply need to be put back. So, how to change the filters in RCC7AK?
At first, loosen the housing with a wrench that you got. Then, simply unscrew the filter cartridge by hand, and take it out. You might notice that some water has spilled out, but it’s not a big deal. When putting the new filter in place, you might want to apply some grease to the “O” ring. After you’re done, tighten up the housing, and that’s it! It might be even easier, but still, you can do it by yourself even if you’ve never done it before.
Installation
This filtration system is very simple to install. However, before you start, you should know its pressure range. Basically, the system works at the 40-80 PSI pressure. If the pressure in your home is not in that range, it’s also not a problem. You can buy a permeate pump if your pressure is low. On the other hand, for high pressure, you can buy a special regulator.
If you have at least some entry-level DIY skills, you can install the system in less than one hour. However, you can even call a plumber to do it. The only difficulty might be drilling the hole in the sink. But if you already have a hole for a soap dispenser, for example, then you won’t have to do the drilling.
Before you start the installation, it’s very useful to check all the steps in the user manual. We have also provided the video, so be sure to check it out, too. The video also contains useful tips on how to replace the filters properly.
Real User Review
If you are tired of reading, don’t worry. We are providing you with a real-user review video. Be sure to check it out!
iSpring RCC7AK Review
The biggest advantage of this system is its RO membrane. It is able to filter particles down to 0.0001 microns in size. Basically, it’s one of the most powerful RO filtration systems in the market. With that membrane, it will block around 99% of different particles. Also, the system was tested to successfully block over 1000 harmful contaminants.
iSpring RCC7AK Filter Effectiveness
We mentioned that the filter is powerful, but which contaminants can it block? Well, chlorine, sodium, fluoride, arsenic, and lead are just some of them. That way, the system will also soften the water, making it safe for house appliances. It also means that this filtration system will extend the lifespan of other units.
However, the RO membrane is just one of the six filtration stages. The first stage is a PP sediment filter that removes large particles. Then, the next stage is a carbon filter, which removes lead, mercury, and similar. The third stage perfectly removes chlorine and improves water taste and odor. Since the fourth stage is the RO membrane, the water will be pretty clear by that phase. It directly improves the lifespan of the RO filter.
In the fifth stage, the water goes to the tank that takes around 2 hours to fill up. However, it greatly depends on the water pressure and water contamination. The water is clean and stays in the tank. The water is then released when you want to use it. Finally, the last stage is a pH filter. It improves alkalinity and adds essential minerals.
As we mentioned, reverse osmosis removes both good and bad minerals. That way, the water’s alkalinity decreases, which also affects the water’s taste. It lowers the pH value below 7 and makes the water acidic. However, when the healthy minerals are added back to the water, you get clean and safe water for your home.
iSpring RCC7AK Pros and Cons
At first, let’s mention a couple of things that make this filter fantastic. Obviously, it uses the RO process to soften and purify the water, which is very good. Then, unlike most systems, it balances the water alkalinity and returns healthy minerals. Another great thing is the faucet. It has a nickel finish and looks fantastic. Then, the sediment filter is transparent, and you can always check the condition. Finally, the system has a 75 GPD production rate, which is amazing.
There are no many downsides to this filtration unit. Okay, it’s a bit expensive and slightly difficult to install. That’s all! However, if you follow the video that we provided, you won’t have any problems with the installation. Also, if you have at least some entry-level DIY skills, the installation will be very easy for you.
iSpring RCC7 vs iSpring RCC7AK
Let’s mention some similarities between these models, first. For example, both systems remove up to 99% of harmful contaminants. Also, they both have a production rate of 75 GPD. Even the ratio of waste and cleaned water is 3:1 in both systems. They even share the same downside when it comes to the lifespan of filters.
RCC7AK system has a 6-stage filtration system. It’s similar to RCC7 but has an additional remineralization filter. It restores all the essential minerals and balances the pH value in water. However, the remineralization filter in both systems is not that good. For example, it won’t turn the water into alkaline. Instead, it will restore around 0.7 pH value, so that the water becomes slightly above 7. It makes the water neutral, or in some cases slightly acidic. There is even a model with a UV device that kills viruses and various bacteria. It’s called RCC7AK-UV. Also, it costs a bit more.
All Stage Filters Explained
The first filter in the system is a PP sediment filter. It provides something like a “pre-filtration”, which removes all the big particles. Otherwise, they might damage the other filters. A great thing about this filter is that it’s completely transparent. That way, you will always know the current state of the filter, and whether it needs changing.
The next stage is a carbon filter. It can filter particles of 5 microns. Basically, it removes chlorine, significantly improving the taste of the water. Due to this filter, the next two filters can achieve maximum efficiency. Also, they will last longer, which directly saves you money on bills each month.
The third filter is very simple. It’s a carbon block filter that removes various chemicals used for disinfection. Those particles can be very harmful, which makes this filter very useful.
The next filter includes a powerful RO membrane. It’s tested to remove particles down to 0.001 microns in size, which is fantastic. Most particles, such as lead and fluoride, won’t be able to pass through. Basically, it’s the most important filter of all six filters.
The fifth stage includes a GAC post-filter. It successfully removes water taste and odor and is crucial for the final drinking experience. Also, you might have noticed that most filtration systems include this filter.
Finally, the sixth stage is a remineralization filter. It’s very important since the RO process removes most minerals from water, both healthy and unhealthy. This filter adds certain minerals and increases the overall pH value of water. Basically, it makes the water more alkaline. Many RO filtration systems don’t have this filter and provide unhealthy water. Also, you should know that only the RCC7AK has this feature. It’s not included in the RCC7 version.
Process of the iSpring RCC7AK 6-Stage System
Basically, most RO systems work in a similar way. At first, the system is connected to your house’s supply of cold water. Before reaching the faucet, water flows through the filter. At the end of the filter is a tank that stores the water and does even more filtration. This unit differs from RCC7AK mainly because of the remineralization feature at the end of filtration. It contains special mineral stones, which add the required minerals and ionize the water. Although it doesn’t directly make the water healthier, this process improves its taste.
Contaminant Removal
The filter is able to remove up to 99% of various contaminants. It was tested to remove around 1000 contaminants, including arsenic, pesticides, viruses, bacteria, protozoa, and similar. Obviously, it also removes dirt, rust, chlorine, and similar “popular” particles. The water that you get can easily be compared with any bottled water that you can buy. Also, the filter removes around 95% of fluoride, which is pretty good.
Short Description of Every Filter Stage
We already talked about the filtration stages of this filter. Let’s take a look at the short, general description of each filtration stage.
The first stage is a pre-filtration filter. Basically, it removes large particles that could damage the other filter. Next, we have an activated carbon filter that removes 5-micron particles. It reduces the odor and improves the taste of water. Right after that, there is another carbon filter that removes the remaining chlorine.
Then, the crucial stage of the system is the Reverse Osmosis membrane. With its 0.0001-micron holes, it removes even the tiniest particles. Again, after this filter, the fifth stage includes a carbon filter. It removes any bad smell and taste in the water.
Finally, there is a pH remineralization media, to additionally improve water taste. In the RCC7AK-UV model, there is a UV lamp that kills bacteria and viruses. It has a special sensor that activates the lamp only when the water is running. That way, it directly improves the lifespan of the UV lamp. However, this system is usually a bit more expensive.
Water Wastage
Each system that has a RO membrane wastes some amount of water. However, depending on the system’s quality, it will waste more or less water during the process. To produce 1 gallon of clean water, this system will waste around 3 gallons of water. It’s not ideal, but still, it’s better than what most systems provide. Some systems waste up to 5 gallons per 1 gallon of purified water. However, that’s too much. Keep in mind that it also affects your monthly costs on water bills.
iSpring RCC7AK Replacement Filters
Let’s have a quick overview of iSpring RCC7AK filters. Basically, they remove most particles and bacteria that most systems can’t remove. Also, they are small and perfectly fit most kitchens. What we really like is that this unit comes with filters of the finest quality. They are very good and can last pretty long.
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Connecting an iSpring rcc7ak to a Refrigerator
You need to buy an iSpring fridge water line connection. It usually costs less than $20 and provides the finest quality. For example, it helps you connect any filtration system to your fridge. It’s also excellent for inline fridge filters.
Another thing that we like is how easy it is to install. It comes with quick-connect fittings and requires no special skills for installation. Even if you have no DIY skills, you can do it without a problem. Besides, it’s very durable, which makes it an excellent long-term investment.
Pros and Cons
iSpring water filtration system has many pros. It makes it an excellent long-term investment. At first, if you buy the iSpring RCC7AK-UV version, you will also get a UV lamp. It kills all the viruses and bacteria that tap water usually contains. Then, the system has an excellent remineralization filter. It also improves the water taste, while making it healthier. On top of that, we are really amazed by the company’s customer service. Those guys are experts and provide valuable advice, no matter if it’s about the installation or anything else.
The only that we don’t like is the poor installation instructions. They are very confusing, and even the grammar is bad. There is a big chance that you will have problems with the installation if you follow the instructions. However, there is an installation video in this article, so be sure to check it out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do You Get Replacement Filters?
Most online stores that sell RO systems also sell filters. You can usually buy them in a 1-year, 2-years, or 3-years packages.
How Frequently Should the Filters be Changed?
It depends mainly on the filter. For example, the filters from the first three stages should be replaced every 3-6 months. It also applies to the sixth-stage filter. However, the RO membrane (4th stage) can last up to 3 years. Finally, the 5th-stage filter should be replaced once a year.
TDS Rejection Ratio
Another thing that you should consider is the rejection ratio of Total Dissolved Solids. This unit is tested to achieve a ratio of 90%, which is 5% better than the previous model.
Our Final Take
So, let’s sum it up. As you can see, RCC7AK is a high-quality water filtration unit, that comes at an excellent price. Although there are cheaper units in the market, buying a high-quality unit is always an excellent investment. The system is an upgraded version of the already-popular RCC7, which makes it even better. Although it’s a bit difficult to install if you follow the instructions, you can do it easily if you have at least some entry-level DIY skills. If you are looking for a high-quality filtration system at a reasonable price, be sure to check it out!