Hubbell Homes Standardized Reverse Osmosis Systems
New construction buyers in Des Moines now receive home filtration systems as a standard, no-cost amenity.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Home Renovation
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Hubbell Homes has officially made reverse osmosis filtration systems standard equipment in all new residential properties built in the Des Moines area. This upgrade provides dedicated water lines to kitchen sinks, refrigerators, and wet bars.
Why it matters
By including these systems, the builder aims to offer permanent water quality improvements directly in the home. The move addresses long-standing regional concerns, highlighted by the fact that the Des Moines Water Works nitrate removal facility operated for 200 days this year.
The systems, which cost approximately $3,000 per unit, are now standard in new homes at no additional charge to the buyer. These installations are handled by Brightwater Kinetico and include dedicated water lines for primary kitchen and wet bar taps.
The players
Hubbell Homes
A residential construction firm headquartered in Waukee, Iowa, with deep historical ties to local infrastructure development.
Brightwater Kinetico
A water treatment specialist partnered with the builder to supply and install filtration equipment.
Des Moines Water Works
The local utility responsible for managing regional water supplies and operating nitrate removal facilities.
The details
The reverse osmosis unit is installed directly in the utility room. From there, Brightwater Kinetico routes dedicated lines to the kitchen sink, refrigerator, and wet bar to ensure filtered water is available at these primary points of use. This integration allows homeowners to bypass the need for third-party countertop filtration devices.
Timeline
October 1, 2026: Reverse osmosis systems became standard in new homes.
1871: The Hubbell Realty founder helped bring water works to Des Moines.
The Home Front
Integrating advanced filtration at the point of construction marks a significant shift toward prioritizing water quality as a permanent residential amenity. This policy follows years of intensive operation at the regional nitrate removal plant, which was active for 200 days this year.
If you recently closed on a new Hubbell home, verify your utility room setup to identify your system's maintenance schedule. Keep a record of your Brightwater Kinetico system model number to ensure you purchase the correct compatible replacement filters for future service.
The takeaway
This policy change effectively shifts the burden of water quality management from the homeowner to the builder. Ensure you locate the maintenance manual for your filtration system in your new home closing documents to confirm your filter replacement timeline.
Further reading
For more on managing residential infrastructure, visit our Home Renovation section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Who13.
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