THE SHORT ANSWER
Measure usable cabinet space and share photos of the plumbing before choosing an RO model. The installer must check connections, pressure and service access.
Photograph the whole cabinet
Take a straight-on photo with doors open, then a closer view of the cold-water connection, drain and any disposal. Include pull-out bins, shelves and other equipment. Measure the clear width, depth and height that remain. The outside dimensions of the cabinet do not describe the space available for a tank or filter change.
Plan for the drinking-water faucet
Tell the installer whether there is an unused sink opening and identify the countertop material. Do not drill a counter based on a generic diagram. Ask who handles the faucet opening and whether approval is needed from a landlord or association. Confirm the faucet finish and reach while the layout can still be changed.
Decide what the system should supply
A dedicated faucet, refrigerator and ice maker place different demands on the layout. Provide appliance model numbers and describe the proposed line route. Ask the installer to confirm compatible pressure and flow rather than assuming every refrigerator can use every RO configuration. EPA distinguishes point-of-use treatment from treatment for an entire home.
Reference: EPA point-of-use RO guidance
Leave room for ownership
Ask to see how each cartridge is removed and where the shutoff will be located. Include any power requirement, leak-protection option and drain arrangement in the written scope. After installation, keep the model numbers, startup instructions and service schedule together. A neat fit should also be a maintainable fit.
A PRACTICAL NEXT STEP
Drinking water, explained.
Fresh-tasting water for every glass, pot of coffee, and family recipe.
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