Product Summary: APEC Water Systems ROES-50 Essence Series

The APEC Water Systems ROES-50 Essence Series is a top-tier, 5-stage reverse osmosis drinking water filter system designed to provide safe and clean drinking water. It is engineered and assembled in the USA, ensuring high quality and reliability.

Key Features:

• Highly Effective Filtration: The system removes up to 99% of impurities, including arsenic, chlorine, lead, fluoride, heavy metals, and over 1000 other contaminants. It is capable of handling feed water pressures between 40-85 psi and can manage a maximum total dissolved solids (TDS) level of 2000 ppm.

• WQA Certification: This system is certified by the Water Quality Association (WQA), affirming its effectiveness and safety in providing purified water.

• Long-lasting Components: The ROES-50 utilizes premium filters designed for treating both tap and well water, offering an unlimited supply of crisp, great-tasting water that is superior to bottled options.

• Dependable Performance: With 20 years of experience, APEC is recognized as America’s No. 1 rated water filter brand, promising a trouble-free and noise-free operation for long-lasting performance.

• Included Accessories: The system comes with a 100% lead-free designer faucet and certified JG premium grade tubing and parts, ensuring safe and impurity-free water delivery.

Usability:

• Installation Type: The filter system is designed for under-sink installation.
• Dimensions: The unit measures 16 inches in length, 5.25 inches in width, and 17.5 inches in height.
• Weight: It weighs 11.3 kilograms.
• Flow Rate: The maximum flow rate of the system is 0.03 gallons per minute.
• Material: Constructed primarily from durable plastic.

Additional Information:

The ROES-50 is designed for users seeking a cost-effective solution to bottled water, promoting a healthier lifestyle through access to ultra-safe drinking water. It is suitable for various applications, including cooking and beverage preparation, ensuring high-quality water for everyday needs.

APEC Reverse Osmosis System Analysis

Based on an analysis of 50 customer reviews spanning from 2025-02-05 to 2025-05-28, here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the APEC Reverse Osmosis (RO) Water Filtration System’s performance.

Water Quality & Performance

Pros

✔️ Excellent Water Quality (14 mentions)

• Customers consistently praise the "clean," "clear," and "great tasting water"
• 3 reviewers specifically mentioned noticeable improvement over previous water quality
• 1 reviewer reported PPM reduction from 215 to 30, demonstrating effective filtration
• 1 reviewer noted clearer ice cubes as a benefit

✔️ Good Water Flow & Pressure (4 mentions)

• Described as "strong and steady" with no slow drips
• 1 reviewer specifically mentioned it exceeded their expectations for flow rate
• Only 1 reviewer complained about slow flow when filling containers

✔️ Simple, Effective Design (3 mentions)

• Praised for being "not cluttered with extra filters"
• Described as having exactly what’s needed for drinking water and ice maker feeds

Cons

❌ Excessive Water Waste (2 mentions)

• System dumps 80% of water during tank filling process
• 1 reviewer was frustrated this wasn’t clearly explained in instructions
• 1 reviewer reported the system dumped nearly 40 gallons during initial setup

❌ Mineral Filter Taste Issues (2 mentions)

• Some disliked the taste of the PH/alkaline mineral filter
• 1 reviewer noted that customer service acknowledged about 10% of customers bypass this filter

❌ No Backflow Protection (1 mention)

• 1 reviewer warned about potential for drinking contaminated water due to lack of backflow prevention

Installation & Setup

Pros

✔️ Easy Installation (7 mentions)

• Described as "straightforward" and "easy to install"
• 1 reviewer completed installation in approximately 1 hour
• Even those with limited plumbing knowledge could install it with help

Cons

❌ Missing or Inadequate Parts (3 mentions)

• 2 reviewers had to purchase additional parts from hardware stores
• 1 reviewer noted insufficient teflon tape on connections
• 1 reviewer reported receiving fewer replacement filters than advertised

Build Quality & Durability

Cons

❌ Leakage Issues (19 mentions)

• Most frequently mentioned problem across all reviews
• 7 reviewers experienced leaks immediately after installation
• 12 reviewers reported leaks developing over time (6 months to 2 years)
• Leaks occurred at various points: filter housings (6), fittings (5), faucet (3), ASO valve (3), and unspecified (2)
• 3 reviewers reported significant water damage to cabinets/homes

❌ Cracked Components (7 mentions)

• 5 reviewers specifically mentioned cracked filter housings or canisters
• 2 reviewers reported cracked fittings
• Most cracks occurred after 1-2 years of use, just outside warranty period

❌ Faucet Quality Issues (4 mentions)

• 2 reviewers reported rusting faucets within a year
• 1 reviewer had the handle break off after a few months
• Described as "cheap" quality by multiple reviewers

❌ ASO Valve Problems (3 mentions)

• Valve failed to shut off water flow properly
• 1 reviewer with professional plumbing experience detailed extensive issues with the valve
• Can lead to excessive water waste when malfunctioning

Customer Service & Support

Pros

✔️ Good Customer Service (3 mentions)

• Described as "awesome" by 1 reviewer
• 1 reviewer noted the company immediately replaced a defective system
• In-house representatives received positive feedback

Cons

❌ Poor Customer Support (6 mentions)

• Long wait times reported (1 hour on hold)
• 3 reviewers mentioned no response to inquiries
• 1 reviewer noted inconsistent quality between in-house and outsourced support
• No weekend support available

Value & Longevity

Pros

✔️ Good Value (2 mentions)

• Described as "great value for the price"

Cons

❌ Short Lifespan (6 mentions)

• 4 reviewers reported system failure just outside warranty period (1-2 years)
• Replacement parts often cost nearly as much as a new system
• 1 reviewer purchased three systems in 8 years due to recurring issues

Key Insights for Buyers

1. Water Quality Excellence: When functioning properly, the system delivers exceptional water quality that customers love.

2. Durability Concerns: The high frequency of leakage reports (19 of 50 reviews) suggests significant quality control issues that potential buyers should consider.

3. Installation Accessibility: Most users found installation manageable, though some plumbing knowledge or assistance is beneficial.

4. Maintenance Vigilance: Regular inspection is critical, as several reviewers reported significant water damage from undetected leaks.

5. Extended Warranty Consideration: Given the number of failures reported just outside the standard warranty period, an extended warranty might be a wise investment.

Practical Tips for APEC RO Water Filtration Systems

Based on real customer experiences, here are actionable insights to help you get the best performance from your APEC reverse osmosis system and avoid common issues.

Installation & Setup

Preparation & Planning

✔️ Test for leaks before final installation – Multiple reviewers recommend setting up the system outside your cabinet for 24 hours to check for leaks before finalizing installation.

✔️ Expect 2-3 hours for installation – While experienced plumbers can install quickly, most DIYers report taking 2-3 hours for complete installation.

✔️ Gather additional supplies – Some users report needing extra parts not included in the kit. Have teflon tape, pipe dope/thread sealant, and basic plumbing tools ready.

Drilling & Mounting

✔️ Use a template for granite countertop drilling – One experienced user recommends: "Take an old plastic tile about 1/4 inch thick, drill a 5/8 hole through it, then Velcro it temporarily to the countertop as a template holder to prevent bit walking."

✔️ Expect 10-12 minutes of drilling time for granite countertops using a diamond hole bit.

Preventing & Fixing Leaks

Critical Leak Prevention

✔️ Apply additional teflon tape to threaded connections – Many users report that factory-applied teflon tape is insufficient. One reviewer notes: "I had to take it apart and add 3 wraps of teflon on the threads + a dab of thread sealant for insurance."

✔️ Pay special attention to the nipples between filter housings – Multiple users identified these as common leak points that need additional sealing.

✔️ Check the OUT valve – Several reviewers specifically mentioned leaks from the OUT valve on top of the assembly.

Maintenance & Monitoring

✔️ Inspect your system regularly – One user who experienced cabinet damage warns: "Inspect your system frequently. My newly remodeled kitchen cabinets were ruined because we didn’t notice it was leaking."

✔️ Place a leak detection pad under the system – Though not mentioned directly, this is implied by multiple users who discovered leaks too late.

Operation & Expectations

Water Flow & Filling

✔️ Expect slow initial filling – The tank takes 2-3 hours to fill completely when first installed.

✔️ Understand drain water is normal – A reviewer explains: "I did not know 80% or more of the water will go down the drain during filling. PUT THIS IN THE INSTRUCTIONS!"

✔️ Monitor ASO valve function – The automatic shut-off valve should stop water flow to the drain once the tank is full. If water continues flowing to drain, one user suggests: "Close the tank valve and turn it back on to unstick the ASO valve."

Water Quality

✔️ Consider bypassing the PH/alkaline filter – A customer service rep told one user that "about 10% of people choose not to use it after purchase" due to taste preferences.

✔️ Expect PPM reduction from 200+ to 30 PPM with the mineral filter, or down to 5 PPM without it.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Filter Housing Problems

✔️ Filter housings may be extremely tight – One user notes: "The filter containers are closed so tight I had to damage them to get them open." Consider using a filter wrench.

✔️ Watch for housing cracks – Multiple users report cracks developing in filter housings, especially after filter changes. Inspect carefully after maintenance.

Faucet Issues

✔️ Faucet quality concerns – Several users reported faucet issues including rusting (within a year), leaking (after 6 months), and handle breakage. Consider purchasing a higher-quality aftermarket faucet.

Long-Term Ownership

Durability Expectations

✔️ Expect 2-3 years of reliable service – Multiple reviewers report issues developing around the 2-year mark, particularly with filter housings cracking.

✔️ Consider an extended warranty – One experienced user advises: "Take the extended warranty; you’ll likely need it a couple of times."

Maintenance Tips

✔️ Replace filters every 3-4 months with heavy use, or 6-12 months with moderate use.

✔️ Keep replacement O-rings on hand – Several users attempted to fix leaks with new O-rings, though results were mixed.

✔️ Document your installation – Take photos during installation to help with future maintenance or troubleshooting.

Customer Service Insights

✔️ Contact during business hours – Customer service is not available on weekends.

✔️ In-house reps provide better service – One user notes: "If you call when they’re not busy, their in-house reps are awesome, but if they get busy and you get forwarded to the Philippines, you already know what’s going to happen."