Quick Take
Score: 8.6/10 | The APEC ROES-PH75 solves the "RO removes everything" problem by adding a sixth stage that restores beneficial minerals and raises pH to alkaline levels. With over 10,000 five-star reviews, WQA certification, and US-based lifetime support, this is the RO system I recommend for families who want pure water without the flat taste and mineral concerns.
What We Evaluated
This review uses R3's Water Filter Methodology v1.1.0.
Safety Analysis (40% weight) - Score: 8.8/10
WQA Certified
The Water Quality Association has tested and certified the ROES-PH75 for contaminant removal. WQA certification ensures the system meets industry standards with third-party verification.
6-Stage Filtration
- Stage 1 - Sediment Filter: Removes particles, dust, rust
- Stage 2 - Carbon Block: Removes chlorine, taste, odor
- Stage 3 - Carbon Block: Additional chemical removal
- Stage 4 - RO Membrane: 99% TDS removal including lead, arsenic, fluoride
- Stage 5 - Coconut Carbon Post-Filter: Final polish for pure taste
- Stage 6 - Alkaline Remineralization: Adds calcium and magnesium, raises pH
99% Contaminant Removal
Standard RO effectiveness:
- Total dissolved solids (TDS): 99%
- Lead: 99%
- Arsenic: 99%
- Fluoride: 95%+
- Chromium 6: 99%
- Bacteria and viruses: 99%+
Made in USA
APEC assembles systems in California with US and imported components. This provides quality control advantages and supports domestic manufacturing.
Efficacy Analysis (35% weight) - Score: 8.5/10
75 GPD Capacity
75 gallons per day production exceeds most families' drinking water needs. The 4-gallon storage tank ensures ample supply for cooking and filling water bottles.
Alkaline Remineralization Stage
The sixth stage passes RO-purified water through natural mineral stones containing calcium and magnesium. This:
- Raises pH from acidic (~6) to alkaline (~7.5-8.5)
- Adds back beneficial minerals
- Improves taste compared to pure RO water
The "flat" taste common to RO water is eliminated while maintaining purity.
Filter Longevity
- Pre-filters: 6-12 months
- RO membrane: 2-3 years
- Post-filter and alkaline: 2-3 years
Annual filter cost is relatively low given stage count.
Dedicated Faucet
The included lead-free chrome faucet provides a dedicated clean water tap. Installation requires drilling a hole in the sink or countertop.
Value Analysis (15% weight) - Score: 8.5/10
Upfront Cost: $299
Excellent value for a 6-stage system:
- Budget 5-stage RO: $150-200
- APEC ROES-PH75 6-stage alkaline: $299
- Premium tankless RO: $400-600
The alkaline stage addition costs approximately $50-75 over basic systems.
Filter Replacement Costs
- Pre-filter set (3 filters): $50-60 annually
- RO membrane: $50 every 2-3 years
- Post-filter + alkaline: $30 every 2-3 years
Annual average: approximately $70-90
Lifetime Phone Support
APEC provides free lifetime phone support from US-based technicians - a significant value for complex systems. Call with installation questions, troubleshooting, or maintenance guidance anytime.
2-Year Warranty
Double the typical 1-year RO warranty, with the option to extend.
Usability (7% weight)
Installation Complexity
6-stage systems have more components than basic RO. Plan 2-3 hours for first-time installers. APEC provides detailed video tutorials and phone support if needed.
Under-Sink Space
Requires significant under-sink space for 6 filter canisters plus the 4-gallon tank. Measure carefully before purchasing.
Filter Changes
Quick-connect fittings make filter replacement straightforward. No tools required once system is installed.
Sustainability (3% weight)
Standard RO Waste Ratio
The ROES-PH75 uses traditional RO technology with approximately 3:1 waste ratio. Less efficient than the Brondell Circle (1:1) but standard for the price point.
Waste Water Usage
APEC suggests collecting waste water for non-drinking uses. Many families connect the drain line to irrigation or use buckets for cleaning.
The Bottom Line
The APEC ROES-PH75 is the best value alkaline RO system for families wanting pure water without the mineral loss and flat taste of standard RO. The 6-stage design with remineralization addresses RO's primary criticism while maintaining 99% contaminant removal. With lifetime US support and a 2-year warranty, this is a confidence-inspiring purchase for families new to RO filtration.
If water efficiency is your priority, consider the Brondell Circle despite its higher price. For budget-only consideration, basic 5-stage APEC systems start around $200.




