We have a Watts Premier reverse osmosis system. It all fits under the kitchen sink and is hooked up to the fridge/ice maker too. I can't tell you how much it cost to install because I live in my parents old house and they installed it, but I can tell you about upkeep. We have to change the filters once a year and they cost about $35.00. I did it this year and it was no big deal. They recommend you change the membrane every 5 years and that costs about $65.00. We can send in water samples for testing whenever we feel the need, no charge. I have not done that nor have I changed the membrane yet, so I can't tell you how long it takes to get results.
The only negative thing I can say about this system is it sounds like it is peeing sometimes. That's the only way I can think to describe it. I was told the sound is from waste water, which cleans the membrane, going down the drain. It is not constant, but with the acoustics in our kitchen it is loud at night. We "solve" this by closing the drains and you can't hear it anymore. As I said it fits under the sink but doesn't leave much room for anything else. My parents did not put in a garbage disposal, and now there is no room for one. I'm willing to live without one to have clean water for the kids.
So on the whole I would recommend the company. Their web site is www.wattspremier.com . I know other people who have to buy large bags of rock salt and such for their systems. I'm glad we don't. I just order the filters on-line once a year and it takes about 20 min. for me to change them. Since I did not do the shopping for this, I don't know what else is out there, But I know my parents are very picky and did not rush into a purchase. I'm sure they researched other brands before buying this one. Good luck on your search.
