What Does It Cost to Make a Litre of RO Water?
Quick answer: Cost per litre = monthly running costs ÷ litres produced per month. Running costs are electricity (kW × hours × tariff), filters and consumables, membrane replacement spread over its life, and labour, rent and other overheads. Volume is the biggest lever: the same costs spread over more litres make each litre cheaper.
Key facts
- Cost per litre = monthly costs ÷ monthly litres
- Spread membrane cost over its life
- Volume lowers cost per litre
- Price above cost with a margin
On this page
RO Cost per Litre Calculator
Example figures only: replace them with your own. Results update as you type.
Electricity per month–
Total running cost per month–
Cost per litre–
Cost per 20 litres–
Where the Costs Come From
| Cost | How to find it |
|---|---|
| Electricity | Pump and plant power (rating plate) × running hours × your tariff |
| Filters | Sediment and carbon cartridges, antiscalant, cleaning chemicals per month |
| Membranes | Replacement cost ÷ expected life in months |
| Overheads | Wages, rent, water bill, licences and repairs per month |
Then Set Your Price
Price per litre must cover cost per litre plus profit and losses. See how to price water per litre and refilling business costs.
Consumables
Polypropylene Sediment Filter Cartridges 20″ SlimlineKSh 700
Carbon Block Coconut Shell Big Blue Cartridges (1um)KSh 1,300
LP-4040 RO MembraneKSh 26,500
LP21-4040 RO MembraneKSh 33,405
H-TECH RO Membrane Replacement RangeKSh 1,750| Product | Price |
|---|---|
| Polypropylene Sediment Filter Cartridges 20″ Slimline | KSh 700 |
| Carbon Block Coconut Shell Big Blue Cartridges (1um) | KSh 1,300 |
| LP-4040 RO Membrane | KSh 26,500 |
| LP21-4040 RO Membrane | KSh 33,405 |
| H-TECH RO Membrane Replacement Range | KSh 1,750 |
Current listed prices incl. VAT (updated 4 October 2026).
Watch: RO purifiers and water ATMs
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to produce a litre of RO water?
Monthly running costs divided by litres produced per month; use the calculator with your figures.
What is the biggest cost in an RO water business?
Usually labour and rent, then electricity; consumables and membranes add smaller amounts.
How do I reduce RO water cost per litre?
Sell more litres, protect membranes with good pre-treatment, and run the plant efficiently.