Choose equipment for the specific issue you want to address. Health Canada recommends checking certification to the applicable performance standard, and does not endorse particular brands. [3]
A useful first comparison.
On a small screen, swipe the table to see every column.
| Option | Conversation to have | Guide |
|---|---|---|
| Softener | Measured hardness and household demand. | Water softeners → |
| Filtration | A specific concern and where treatment is needed. | Water filtration → |
| Reverse osmosis | Drinking-water goals, the exact model and maintenance. | RO explained → |
| UV | Microbiological results, system class and pretreatment. | UV explained → |
Eight points for your written quote.
- The concern being addressed and the supporting result.
- Exact system and replacement-part model numbers.
- Verified performance claims for those models.
- Installation scope, including any separate trade work.
- Equipment, installation and recurring service prices.
- Written warranty terms and the business responsible for them.
- The routine maintenance you will need to do.
- How performance and follow-up support will be handled.
Why start the conversation with ECW?
Our Dartmouth-based team gives you a local starting point for water-treatment questions. Use the water test request to tell us what you notice, share your town and ask what the visit will cover. We’ll confirm availability before the visit.
Bring this checklist to the conversation. Ask us to explain each proposed part, its purpose and the ongoing care it needs. A recommendation should make sense to you before you make a decision.
Look past badges and blanket promises.
A certification applies to particular claims for particular equipment. It is not proof that a company or every product it sells can solve every water problem. [4] Compare the evidence behind the proposal, rather than claims such as “best,” “pure” or “removes everything.”
Quick questions
Can ECW recommend a system before testing?
Start by discussing the source, existing reports and your concerns. Ask which additional checks are needed before a recommendation.
What makes a useful recommendation?
A clear link to your water results, an explanation of each component, written costs and a practical care plan.