As more people become accustomed to using residential reverse osmosis systems, the dawn of the tankless system has already begun. Unlike older systems, tankless units are more user-friendly. Additionally, they do a great job of filtering your drinking water without taking up much space. In my Waterdrop G3P800 review, I share everything I discovered about this system to help you along the way.
As you’ve probably already noticed, the G3P800 is no small investment. So, what makes it so special? Is it worth the extra money compared to other tankless RO systems?
In my review, you’ll discover the answer to those questions and more. In the end, you’ll be able to draw your own conclusions.
Waterdrop G3P800 Overview
First, I want to share the key features of this system that set it apart from the others:
- 800 GPD Capacity – Of all the tankless systems on the market, 800 GPD is currently the highest you’ll find. With this mammoth capacity, larger households will find that they have a neverending supply of fresh water. Also, people who want to fill pots for cooking will find that this system fills them the fastest.
- UV Filtration – Are you concerned about harmful pathogens? Well, the built-in UV filter has the ability to remove up to 99.9% of bacteria and viruses. As a result, you’ll never have to worry about getting sick from your water supply.
- Scale Inhibitor – The next unique feature is the scale inhibitor. For people with hard water, this little addition is a real lifesaver, especially if you plan to use filtered water for cooking or in your kitchen appliances.
- Smart Faucet – The smart faucet sports a TDS indicator along with a filter life indicator. With this handy addition, there’s no need to look below your sink for TDS readings or filter life.
- Optional Remineralization – For better-tasting drinking water, it’s best to remineralize your reverse osmosis water to enhance its blank taste. For this reason, I’m a huge advocate of RO systems with remineralization.
Filter Maintenance
One of the most important factors to consider when buying a water filtration system is filter maintenance. Sometimes, you’ll find that replacement filters cost more than the system itself. Or worse, the company disappears, leaving you with no access to replacement filters.
In the case of Waterdrop, the company is well-established and not going anywhere anytime soon. For more details, navigate to my complete Waterdrop filter review.
Now, how much do replacement filters cost for the G3P800? At the time of this writing, replacement filter cost is quite low compared to competitors. And the reason behind this is that Waterdrop specializes in manufacturing aftermarket filters. Before entering the RO space, Waterdrop made a name for itself in the generic refrigerator filter space.
Filter Life
Primarily, there are four filters in this system to track:
- WD-G3-N1CF Filter – This combination sediment/carbon block filter serves up to 550 gallons or 6 months (whichever comes first)
- WD-G3-N3CB Filter – This activated carbon filter sports a long life of up to 1,100 gallons or up to 1 year
- WD-G3P800-N2RO Filter – The RO membrane has a life of no more than 24 months. Of the filters in this system, this one costs the most yet needs to be replaced the least.
- Optional Remineralization Filter (WD-MNR35) – Also has a life of 1,100 gallons or up to 1 year
Changing the Filters
One of the things I love the most about Waterdrop’s tankless systems is how easy it is for me to change the filters. With just a quick twist, I can easily remove the old filters and replace them with new ones.
Comparatively, the process is a lot easier than the more laborious process of switching out filters in a traditional under-sink system.
Installation
Installing the G3P800 is mostly straightforward, even if you aren’t handy. Comparatively, I find it much easier to install this system than a traditional unit. In the box, you’ll find everything you need for the installation, including a drain saddle and the fittings.
Next, keep in mind that this system does require a hole for a dedicated faucet. If you don’t have an existing hole in your sink, then there’s the need to drill a clean one.
When completing this step, always choose the right type of hole saw for the job to ensure a clean cut. Additionally, take proper safety precautions, such as wearing gloves and safety glasses.
Lastly, since tankless systems feature built-in pumps, there’s the need to plug the unit into a nearby outlet.
The video below demonstrates how to install the G3P800 below your kitchen sink:
My Review
Now, let’s see if this system is truly worth it. As you already know, it has the most bells & whistles of all the tankless systems on the market. Below, you’ll find my review broken into two parts: my likes and my dislikes.
My Dislikes
- Waterdrop recommends not using its systems with well water. Since well water is more likely to need UV treatment than municipal, this is sad to see.
- Tankless systems require electricity, which means I need a nearby outlet.
- Of the systems I’ve reviewed, this one costs the most at the time of this writing.
- The pump operates at 65 dB
My Likes
- The 3:1 wastewater ratio is the most impressive that I’ve seen offered by an RO system. Typically, traditional systems can waste up to 4 gallons for every 1 gallon of filtered water. Now, the G3P800 produces just 1 gallon of wastewater per 3 gallons of filtered water. Ultimately, this heavy reduction keeps my water bill lower.
- The massive 800 GPD capacity ensures the highest flow rate and no waiting around to fill my glass or a pot (just 6 seconds to fill an 8 oz glass). And the system accomplishes this without the need to use space for a filtered water tank.
- Speaking of space, the G3P800 is ultra-slim, meaning I still get to store stuff below my sink.
- The smart faucet makes it easy for me to monitor the TDS and filter life without having to look beneath my sink.
- I really like the addition of the scale inhibitor that prevents hard water from damaging the system and reducing filter life.
- Filter changes are a breeze, and the price of the replacement filters is reasonable.
- Waterdrop customer service is responsive, and the company stands behind its warranty.
- The addition of the UV filter ensures that no harmful microorganisms sneak into my drinking water. Plus, it has a 50-year service life.
- The excellent installation video makes installation simple.
- The optional remineralization filter allows me to boost the pH of my drinking water and improve its taste.
- BPA-free and lead-free parts
Final Considerations
Overall, the Waterdrop G3P800 filter is the most advanced tankless reverse osmosis system on the market. Is it worth the higher cost? Well, the final decision really comes down to your needs and wants.
For example, if you have a large household with high water demands, then this system ensures you won’t be waiting around for filtered water. Additionally, because of its awesome efficiency, you’ll be able to keep your water bill low.
On the other hand, if you’re single, then this might be more system than you need. In this case, the original G3 unit might be the better choice.
Regarding performance, I really like that this system features a scale inhibitor and a UV light. These additions give me more peace of mind about the longevity of the unit and that my water is free from pathogens.
Beyond those considerations, the attractive smart faucet is a welcome addition to my kitchen. The brushed nickel finish fits in nicely, and the screen makes it easy for me to keep track of my TDS readings along with filter life.
Below, I answer a couple of questions you might be asking yourself about this system:
What contaminants does the Waterdrop G3P800 remove?
Considering this is a reverse osmosis system with a reverse osmosis membrane, it removes all common water contaminants at impressive rates of up to 99.99%. Also, if you’re concerned about fluoride in your water, this system will remove that for you along with heavy metals and chemicals.
Is the system noisy?
The answer to this question is no, however, it is important to note that the pump operates at 65 dB. Therefore, if a bedroom is close to the kitchen, the sound may disturb light sleepers.
Does the system require professional installation?
As long as you know how to drill a couple of holes, this system is easy to install. For people who want to be extra careful and aren’t handy at all, then hiring a professional is advisable. Since the installation is easy, be sure to get multiple quotes, or you could run the risk of being ripped off.