Can You Install a Reverse Osmosis System in the Basement? How?
Written by: Alexandra Uta // Last Updated: Aug 21, 2023
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Need to install a reverse osmosis system, but you have no counter space for a countertop model and no space under your sink to put one there?
Never fear; you may be able to install your system in the basement with a few extra considerations.
Let’s talk about what they are and how to get it done!
Contents
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Key Takeaways
- Yes, you can install a reverse osmosis system in the basement, as long as you consider that you will need longer lengths of tubing and possibly tools to enhance pressure for water delivery from the storage tank.
Can You Install a Reverse Osmosis System in the Basement?
First of all, can you install a reverse osmosis system in the basement?
Yes, you can install a reverse osmosis system in the basement. In fact, plenty of people do! However, there are a few extra considerations to have in mind when installing your RO system in an alternate location like the basement.
- The first is extra tubing. If your reverse osmosis system is further away from your RO faucet, or drainage pipes, you will need longer lengths of tubing to connect everything.
- The second consideration is pressure. Usually, the pressure that pushes the water out of the faucet comes from the storage tank only. As such, it must be close enough to said faucet to propel water from there efficiently. When installing the storage tank further away from the point of use, you may need to install an electric delivery pump to get the water where it needs to go. If your tubing exceeds 10 feet vertically or 20 feet horizontally, then you will likely experience pressure loss. In order to minimize that loss, consider mounting your storage tank as close to the basement ceiling as possible.
Further Reading:
How to Install an RO System in the Basement?
Before installing, decide exactly where your RO system will be placed in the basement and how it will all connect. Once that is mapped out and you are sure you have the proper placement and lengths of tubing, you can begin installing.
Required Tools
Prepare all the required tools and components in advance to avoid frustration. The list below may not be exhaustive:
- RO system installation manual
- RO module
- Water storage tank
- Faucet
- Filter cartridges + RO membrane
- Installation kit, including color-coded tubing, filter wrench, stop connector, tank valve, faucet connector, and drain saddle
- Power drill
- Drill bits
- Screwdriver
- Tubing cutter
- Utility knife
- Adjustable wrench
- Towel
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Faucet Installation: The type of drill bit required may depend on the material to avoid scratches or chipping. Use a center punch to mark the installation spot for a stainless steel sink. Drill the hole carefully, using a little oil if needed. For a ⅜ inch or ½ inch hole, begin with a ¼-inch pilot hole. After completion, clear any leftover metal chips and smooth out sharp edges. Insert the faucet stem through the hole and secure it from below with washers and a hex nut. Finally, attach the quick-connect fitting and tighten it.
- Drain Saddle Setup: Position the saddle above and as far away from the dishwasher discharge and garbage disposal as possible to prevent clogging and protect your RO system from potential contamination. It should be at least 6 inches above the P-trap. Drill a ¼ inch hole in the top or side of the drain line. Align the hole in the pipe with the clamp hole and secure the drain clamps with bolts.
- Feed Valve Assembly: Turn off the cold water supply. Release pressure in the water line by opening the respective outlets. Detach the tubing from the cold water valve, install the new feed valve, and tighten it with a wrench. Close the feed valve for now. Connect the cold water tubing to the new valve (an adapter may be necessary) and turn the water supply back on.
- Water Storage Tank Setup: Before positioning the tank, wrap around six layers of Teflon tape around the port at the top. Then, screw on the tank valve or tank connector, which should thread on easily and only need to be hand-tight. You can place your storage tank upright or on its side.
- Mounting and Connecting RO Module with Tubing: When mounting the optional RO module, ensure enough space around it for membrane and filter replacements and other maintenance. Connect the module using color-coded tubing and the quick-connect fittings.
- Installing Filters and Membrane: Insert the pre-filters and the RO membrane into their housings according to the provided instructions.
- Plugging in the Booster Pump: If you are using a booster pump, now is the time to plug it into a power socket.
- Starting the System: Open the feed water valve and the RO faucet, but keep the storage tank valve closed. You will hear gurgling noises as air leaves the system. Check connections for leaks. After 10 to 15 minutes, water will dribble out of the dispenser. Close the faucet and open the storage tank valve to allow the tank to fill (this may take some time). Once it’s full, open the drinking water faucet to flush the entire unit. When the water flow reduces to a dribble, the storage tank has emptied. Close the faucet and let the tank refill. Flush the system 2-3 times before use or as recommended by manufacturers.
How Much Does It Cost to Have a Reverse Osmosis System Installed in the Basement by a Pro?
A standard under sink reverse osmosis system costs between $150 and $600; if you want to have one professionally installed, then budget around $100 per hour. When installing just under the sink, this shouldn’t take more than an hour or two, but installing in your basement may take longer as it is more complicated!
Your best option is to contact plumbers in your area to get an idea of prices. It will vary on many factors, such as ease of setup, your location, plumbing codes, and even just the cost of labor in your state.$200-300 is likely the bare minimum.
Where Is the Best Place to Install a Reverse Osmosis System?
The best place to install a reverse osmosis system is under your sink. It makes things more straightforward and rules out any issues related to water pressure that may come with installing it further away. Plus, it makes it easy to access for issues and maintenance!
If you have any questions about installing an RO system in the basement please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below!
About the Author Alexandra Uta
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