When I purchased my home 22 years ago the community was new. With new plumbing etc....The water tasted like "swamp water". I purchased 2 of the older models of the U25. I used the Carbon impregnated filters.....WHAT A DIFFERENCE!!!! The reason for 2 was one to the hot water supply (cold side) and one for the entire house. They lasted 17 years without a hitch. I replaced the older one with the newer model 5 years ago, still no problems. As for leaks, INSTALL IT CORRECTLY, or have someone with a little knowledge do it for you. Use Teflon tape, use the proper tools, Install unions in the pipe for easy unit replacement, replace the "O" rings annually (that way the canister does not have to be over-torqued). The provided wrench works fine if the canister is not over-torqued, don't use the wrench to tighten the canister, if the O-ring is fresh, hand tightening is sufficient. This is a great product, but as with anything, used incorrectly it will not function properly.