We recently did a hands-on review of the Waterdrop’s latest X-16 under-sink RO system, which promises a filtration capacity of 1600 Gallons per day with alkaline remineralization of the municipal tap water supply.
Waterdrop’s X-Series is designed to cater to the demands of commercial settings such as offices, hotels, cafes, gyms, and more.
Keep reading for an in-depth review based on critical factors like contaminant removal, ease of installation, and usage so you can wisely invest in a reverse osmosis filter.
Pros
- 1600 GPD
- Inbuilt remineralization for alkaline water taste
- LED Sterilization
- 3:1 pure-to-drain water ratio
- Smart touch faucet with LED display
- Energy saving mode
- The Cup Volume Selection feature
- Easy filter replacement
- Automatic flushing
- Tankless stylish design
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- Needs electricity
- Needs pre-filter for well water
Key Takeaway: The Waterdrop X-16 boasts impressive features such as a high filtration capacity, alkaline remineralization, and LED sterilization. However, it requires electricity and is more suitable for commercial rather than residential use.
Here's How We Test Products At Aquaprofessor
👉Waterdrop X Series Under Sink RO: Detailed Hands-On Review!
| Basis | Waterdrop X Series |
| Contaminant Removal | Removes 99.99% of harmful contaminants such as heavy metals, VOCs, PFAs, and microplastics. |
| Performance Certifications | Third-party certification against NSF/ANSI 58 and 372 standards |
| Filtration Capacity and Water Flow Rate | 1600 GPD |
| Ease of Installation | Easy |
| Ease of Maintenance | Easy with user-friendly filter replacement |
| Warranty and Customer Support | 2-year warranty and good customer support |
Note: Waterdrop has launched two models in the X series: X-12 and X-16.
The main difference lies in their filtration capacities, with X-12 offering 1200 GPD and X-16 offering 1600 GPD (Gallons Per Day).
🦠Contaminant Removal
Waterdrop’s X series has a contaminant reduction rate of 99.99% using its 0.0001 micrometer precise 18-layer RO membrane.
The system comprises 3 filter cartridges comprising 11 stages of filtration:
It can effectively remove heavy metals like lead, chromium-6, and PFAS and dangerous VOCs like chloroform and coliform bacteria.
Apart from removal, the system also offers alkaline mineralization, keeping the pure water’s pH around 7.5, which is beneficial for the body and helps it retain healthy minerals.
🏅Performance Certifications
Like its counterparts in the X series, the X-16 model has been third-party (IAPMO R&T) tested against NSF/ANSI standards 58 and 372 to provide users with peace of mind regarding the safety and quality of their drinking water.
SGS reports for both the X-12 and X-16 models confirm their efficacy in removing heavy metals like lead, chromium, PFAS, VOCs like chloroform, and coliform bacteria.
💦Filtration Capacity and Water Flow Rate
During our hands-on testing, we confirmed that the X-16 delivers a high filtration capacity of 1600 GPD.
It has a fast water flow rate, allowing you to fill a glass of water in 2 seconds, a teapot in 10 seconds, and a bowl in 20 seconds.
This ensures the system can meet users’ needs even in high-demand commercial settings.
To get the best water flow, ensure that you meet the minimum feed water requirements. The feed water must be supplied from municipal tap water with 14.5 to 87 psi pressure and 5 to 38°C temperature.
Note:
The X-16 can be used with municipal tap water without the need for pre-filters. However, users relying on well or underground water sources are advised to install pre-filters to eliminate specific water quality issues such as hardness and excess iron (>0.3 mg/L).
🔧Ease of Installation
One of the standout features of the X-16 is its ease of installation, but it requires basic plumbing skills and takes time.
The installation guide and accompanying video tutorials provide clear instructions for setting up the system.
The filter includes all necessary attachments and fittings, such as tubing, adapters, lock clips, and tape.
Notably, the system comes in eco-friendly packaging made of compostable PLA & PBAT materials.
👷♂️Ease of Maintenance
Maintaining the Waterdrop X-16 RO system is simple and requires minimal effort from the user.
As filters become clogged with impurities over time, you must replace them timely.
The F1 filter lasts 12 months/1100 gallons, the F2 filter can last 6 months/550 gallons, and the F3 filter has a 24 months/2200 gallons lifespan, after which it must be replaced for optimal performance.
While above are the estimated timelines, replacement intervals may vary depending on your usage and water quality.
The filter replacement process is a breeze, thanks to the easy twist-and-lock mechanism for pulling out the old filter (anti-clockwise) and inserting the new one (clockwise).
However, always remember to switch off the faucet and release the pressure to remove filter cartridges easily.
The faucet’s smart touch control and LED display add an elegant and efficient touch to the system’s functionality.
The smart faucet displays the TDS reading, cup volume selection in oz (5 to 64 oz) by turning the knob, automatic UV sterilization indicator while dispensing water, and filter life indicators.
The filter life monitor is present on the main system housing as well.
Remember, blue light indicates normal functioning, yellow light is a warning to replace the filter within 15 days, and red light means immediate filter replacement is needed.
After successful filter replacement, you must reset the indicators and flush the new filters before use.
The flushing time requirements are 15 minutes for the F1 filter, 5 minutes for the F2 filter, and 30 minutes for the F3 filter.
The system has a good pure-to-drain ratio of 3:1, which means that for every 3 gallons of pure water, the system drains 1 gallon of wastewater. It helps you save 1200% water.
The system also has additional features such as – Energy saving mode and Faucet mode.
The energy-saving mode is used for efficient, silent operation and 40% power saving. It can be activated by pressing the F2 and F3 keys simultaneously until you hear a beep. It will turn the faucet light green.
The faucet mode can be activated by pressing the F1 and F2 keys simultaneously. It helps dispense water smoothly without splashes in the cup.
🛃Warranty and Customer Support
The X-16 comes with a 30-day risk-free return guarantee and a 2-year warranty, providing users with additional peace of mind in case of defects or failures.
You can contact their customer support team by phone, email, live chat, or the feedback form on their website.
You also get the option to extend your warranty, ask for an exchange, and a 120-day price guarantee.
🏆Final Takeaway: Should You Buy Waterdrop X-16?
After thoroughly examining the Waterdrop X-16 from the X series, it’s clear that it offers unique advantages to its users.
It is suitable for commercial settings such as offices, hotels, cafes, and gyms, where the demand for filtered water is higher.
It offers a filtration capacity of 1600 gallons per day (GPD), on-demand access to alkaline-filtered water, an 11-stage reverse osmosis process, and UV sterilization, ensuring high-quality water for customers and employees.
However, for household settings with 3-4 members, you should go for the Waterdrop G3P600 filter.
💡Waterdrop X Series : Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Waterdrop filter made in China?
Yes, Waterdrop filters are manufactured in China, but the company is registered in the US and complies with all relevant regulations and standards, including the Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974.
How long does the Waterdrop X Series filter last?
The Waterdrop X Series filters have 3 filter cartridges whose lifespans depend on usage and water quality but typically range from six months to twenty-four months.
The F1 filter lasts for 12 months or 1100 gallons. The F2 filter lasts for 6 months or 550 gallons. The F3 filter lasts for 24 months or 2200 gallons.
When was the Waterdrop X-16 launched?
The Waterdrop X-16 was officially launched on March 18, 2024 for purchase.
Does Waterdrop X-16 remineralize?
Yes, the Waterdrop X-16 is equipped with an inbuilt PCC mineralization technology to remineralize the purified water.
This innovative process activates specific mineral crystals to mimic the natural formation of spring water, adjusting the water’s pH to a body-friendly level of 7.5±.
This feature enhances the taste and quality of the filtered water by reintroducing beneficial minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, that may have been removed during the filtration process.
Does the Waterdrop filter remove heavy metals?
Yes, both the Waterdrop X-12 and X-16 have been tested by SGS against NSF/ANSI standard 58, proving their effectiveness in eliminating heavy metals such as arsenic, lead, and other nasty contaminants like chromium-6 and VOCs.
Adarsh is a Health & Nutrition Sciences graduate with expertise in environmental health. He is associated with ventures like Glacier Fresh Filter and Simpure Filter Systems. Through Aqua Professor, he intends to provide helpful information to every home to help them make smarter decisions.
