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You know the signs that you need a water softener!
” your clothes are not clean no matter how you wash them, your dishes come out of the dishwasher full of spots, and it is hard to work up a lather with your shampoo or when washing your hands. ”
These are some of the more common indicators that you have minerals in your water. With a water softener, you do not need to worry about these problems ever again. However, there are some critical differences in the water softeners you can purchase.
Best Water Softeners Reviewed
Our team of experts gathered & researched the best water softeners system for home reviewed to help you save time & money and enjoy softened water benefits:
1.Fleck 9500SXT
Fleck is committed to becoming the leading and frontier brand of water softening technology and innovation. As a result, their consumers benefit from a variety of high-performance products that are affordable and eco-sustainable as well. All the components of their water softening devices are designed for reduced wastage of water, high efficiency, and top-notch quality. The brand aims to provide you with every solution for domestic problems regarding hard water. With passing time, the brand is increasingly exceeding in this sector. They made an excellent addition to their established portfolio through the launch of Fleck 9500 SXT. The details about this model are as below.
However, if you view the upside of this water softening machine, the positive features will let you know about the reason behind the high cost. The first thing that you will notice is that the delivery charges do not apply to this purchase. Hence, the additional shipping charges will not be charged. The digital SXT controller equipped with this unit allows you to easily operate this whole system. As this water softener is available in multiple versions varying in the grain capacity, you can choose the one required for your home-based use conveniently. Moreover, the maximum grain capacity that this system offers is 300,000. As far as the quality concern is regarded, you will love to know about the superior materials used in the construction of this unit.
If you want to have a look at the best aspect of this machine, the continuous flow of soft water that it offers will leave you quite impressed. This machine features two tanks. The resin tank of the Fleck 9500 SXT remains of standby mode. It comes in actions once the main tank is exhausted. This cycle goes on and on to grant you uninterrupted services. One primary advantage of this softener is that it helps in preventing water build-up in the laundry and other areas so that all your appliances and accessories can ensure a long-lasting service for you. The certifications regarding this machine include NSF/ANSI-61 approval, which makes it far more reliable. Moreover, you will also be able to get a warranty based on five years for the tank, valves, and electronics as well.
In a nutshell, Fleck the brand has done a fantabulous job in designing this top-quality system, which won’t let you down whether you are concerned about the durability or the performance. Fleck 9500SXT is the best commercial water softener in the market if you are looking for a a guaranteed investment and high durability because it is an NSF certified machine offers you a 24/7 uninterrupted supply of soft water by processing with two different tanks. The maximum grain capacity of 300,000 will not leave you unimpressed as well. This system may come too expensive, but the performance justifies its price point as well. As it prevents water build-up, you do not have to worry about the durability of other appliances as well. Investing in this machine will surely benefit your lifestyle.
Pros |
---|
Free shipment |
Easy to install |
Digital controller |
Available in multiple grain capacity options |
300,000 maximum grain capacity |
Continuous Flow of Soft Water |
Standby resin tank |
Prevents water build-up |
NSF/ANSI-61 Certified |
5 Years of warranty on tanks, valve, and electronics |
Cons |
---|
Too expensive |
May need an extra filter with well water |
2.SoftPro Elite
SoftPro uses a basic market argumentation to provide a better approach to its knowledge and creativity for the sake of quality experience. SoftPro is setting a strong target on its culture and talent to achieve this. SoftPro encourages living with grounded ideals, and the path to better business is through loyalty. Their core principles are driven by the services they provide to their customers and the environment to their staff. The wide range of water treating machines also includes this amazing softener known as Elite by SoftPro.
Let us now move towards the upside of the SoftPro Elite water softener. The impeccable advantages at this site will let you know about the worth of this machine. This brand offers a wide variety of choices so that you can get the system you require. The various options of grain capacities will allow you to choose as per the need. Moreover, you can get this unit couples with different facilities as multiple packages are made available. Other than this, the company also allows you to choose from the different flow rates as per your choice. The multi-mode functions of this unit will allow you versatility as well. The free shipping will definitely attract you at an instance as well.
Additionally, the auto system refresh mode enables this machine to rinse away the standing water after not being used for seven days, for preventing bacterial development. Moreover, the wide electronically controlled Board with LCD display of four-line touchpad lets you control the system easily in the absence of misleading messages or symbols. The auto system reserve will allow you to have a continuous flow of soft water without any interruption. Other than this, the automatic variable backwash keeps the whole system maintained throughout the use. In this way, the unit does not require manual maintenance more often. The best thing about this device is that it helps in saving up to 64% of salt usage and 75% of water usage as well. With the lifetime warranty tag, you will not have to worry about the longevity of this system at all.
Overall, the Elite water softener by SoftPro works as a complete package as it performs with immense efficiency while saving you energy, water, and salt as well. Moreover, frequent maintenance is not required, as well. The automatic technology of this unit makes it one of the most innovative systems out there. With the help of the easy controls and display screen, you are not going to have any trouble while operating it either. Moreover, the lifetime warranty tag will also grant relief to your quality and durability concerns. However, the installation procedure is not that simple and may require professional help.
Pros |
---|
Different grain capacities |
Available in different packages |
You can choose between different GPM versions. |
Multi-Mode Functions |
Auto System Refresh |
Auto Variable Backwash |
Auto Reserve |
Display screen |
Saves 64% on salt usage |
Saves 75% on water usage |
Free shipping |
Lifetime warranty |
Cons |
---|
Somewhat pricey |
May require professional installation. |
3.Fleck 5600SXT
Fleck is dedicated to being at the top of water softening technologies and creativity. As a consequence, their clients profit from an affordable and environmentally safe range of high-performance goods. All their water softening unit components are designed for minimal waste, high-performance, and top quality. The brand strives to give you a one-stop solution for domestic hard water issues. With the advancement of time, the brand is exceeding progressively in this field. Through Fleck 5600SXT, they have made an excellent addition to their impressive portfolio.
Contradictory to the downside, the advantageous qualities of this system make it able to compete with the rivals. The installed digital meter makes it easy for you to use the water softening system much efficiently. The high capacity resin makes sure to store massive water for softening purposes. With the bypass valve, the water flow pressure does not get disturbed and remains stable throughout.
With the featured 1-inch MNPT thread, the system offers you a more comfortable connection with your plumbing. Moreover, the built-in capacitor of this softening unit makes it able to retain the data up to 48 hours so your set programming won’t get lost in case of power loss. The safety float included in this product ensures that the water does not get wasted at any cost. The guidelines for installation are also included in the package for your ease. However, they are hard to follow, as mentioned above.
All in all, the Fleck 5600SXT holds both sides. Some points may convince you to purchase this system while the other drawbacks may make you think twice about your decision. However, if you are planning to buy something more quality-oriented and durable, you would have to look elsewhere.
Pros |
---|
Digital Meter |
High Capacity Resin |
1-inch MNPT thread |
Bypass valve |
Built-in capacitor |
Safety float |
Installation guidelines included |
Cons |
---|
Salt bags are heavy and bulky to manage |
Moderate price |
Poor instructions |
Check It Out On Amazon
4.Quantum
Quantum is a famous provider of water filtration devices and softeners for domestic drinking water problems. Their popular filtration systems are developed and installed after going through immense hard work and passion for serving the best to the customers. They are positive about their remarkable performance in providing the highest performing water softening solutions over the years. The brand’s goods are distributed all over the world to fix water problems of all sorts. Every aspect of the production line is supervised thoroughly so that you can get the expected, high-quality product. Here is how the brand has contributed to the industry with the help of the Quantum water softener.
While on the upper end regarding the Quantum water softening system, the beneficial features overcome the pricey nature of this unit. The customers are able to select the required grain capacity unit from the vast set of choices. With a maximum grain capacity of up to 48,000, this system is bound to facilitate you in every possible way. Other than this, the brine tank featured in it is quite large in size as well. This will also include maximum water to soften easily. The brand allows you to choose between multiple filter options, which include KDF 55, RO, and carbon filters as well. Every filter offers a unique set of pros so that you can decide the one needed.
The up-flow regeneration system makes the system capable of performing better by deriving the hardness of water to the drain from the resin. If the softeners of the up-flow water drop below three percent, a short restoration will take place in the system to pass through the rest of the day until the system activates at its planned time. In this way, you will be able to get continued water supply. Moreover, this unit will allow you to reduce the wastage of water and salt by 64% and 75%, respectively. Other than this, the installation procedure is quite easy as well. You can take help from the online instructions and vides. On top of this, you will also be able to get seven years of warranty on the valve and a lifetime of warranty on the tanks.
All in all, the Quantum water softening machine will provide you major benefits through its high-performance and quality functioning. You will have to invest much in the purchase of this product, but it will undoubtedly prove as worth-it. The covering warranty that the brand offers will make you rely on this unit. Moreover, the installation procedure is easy, as well. The large brine tank and continuous water flow will allow you to have soft water for healthy skin and an overall healthy lifestyle.
Pros |
---|
Available in multiple grain capacities |
Large Brine Tank |
Up to 48,000 of maximum grain capacity |
Multiple filter options |
Up-flow regeneration |
The continued flow of soft water |
Reduces salt waste by 75% |
Helps in reducing water waste by 64% |
Easy to install |
Seven years of warranty on the valve |
Lifetime warranty on the tanks |
Cons |
---|
Expensive |
Pricey filter assemblies |
5.Aquasure Harmony
Do you have a large home with multiple bathrooms? Are there 5 to 7 members of your family living in your home? For water usage of that capacity, you need a water softening unit that can cope with the volume. Look no further than the Aquasure Harmony. It can meet your needs to provide you with water that is kind to your hair and skin, does not leave a film on your clothes, eliminates the film in your shower stalls, and makes your dishes shine.
With the control system, you can set the time of day for operation, the recharge time and the backwash cycle, brine draw duration, rapid rinse duration, brine fill duration, units (gals or liters), capacity, and type of recharge schedule. While this does take some thought to make all of these decisions, you can accurately match your circumstances to the running of the unit to maximize efficiency. The Aquasure Harmony digital control system initiates backwashing, only when needed, saving you hundreds of gallons of water for operation. Less backwashing also means more efficient use of salt.
The Aquasure Harmony is equipped with the most modern technology. That is a giant improvement over the old systems. YouTube videos are readily available to explain the details of the system and operational fine points. The price point for the Aquasure Harmony is in line with similar units.
Install the Aquasure Harmony if you are a discerning consumer who seeks better water quality and enjoys dialing in the details to maximize the efficiency of operation.
Pros |
---|
Excellent quality |
Very economic for his size & capacity |
Easy installation |
5 year manufacturer’s warranty |
Whole house water softner |
Good & quick customer support |
Cons |
---|
Pricey |
Salt bags are heavy and bulky to manage |
Resin replacement, once every 5 years |
May require a hardness test kit to program effectively |
Resin tank is heavy |
Check It Out On Amazon
6.APEC Futura
APEC is a prominent U.S. supplier of residential drinking water filtration systems and softeners. In the City of Industry, California, they design and assemble their famous filtration systems. With over 20 years of industry experience and a faithful international customer base, they are optimistic about their unprecedented success in delivering the best quality water softening systems. Products of the brand are shipped across the world to deal with water issues of all kinds.
So, coming to the positive side, the APEC Futura is a reliable and durable system. It will last years, serving you clean and freshwater. As it is straightforward to install, you won’t have to pay extra installation charges. The main highlight of this unit is that it does not uses salt, so it is an excellent and safe conditioner for the plants. You can maintain the beauty of your garden with the safe water that it provides. It works to neutralize the minerals and make the water entirely harmless.
Moreover, this system does not require expensive maintenance and does not require electricity to work, as well. So, you can deduct many side expenses with the help of this unit. Another great benefit that it offers is the fact that it reduces health risks and improves your cardiovascular system by producing healthier and cleaner water. APEC also provides a ten-year limited warranty with this model, which is great because the company stands behind its products.
The APEC Futura is an excellent, all-in-one package that will give you relief from the problems of hard water. You will love the efficient working of this system. No doubt it is expensive, but the outstanding qualities make it this system worth the high cost. So, if you are looking for an efficient and ever-lasting product, this can prove as an excellent choice for you.
Pros |
---|
Easy to install |
Lasting for years |
Maintenance-free |
Salt-free conditioner |
Does not require electricity |
Improves your cardiovascular system |
Reduces health risk |
10-year limited warranty |
Lifetime expert support |
Safe for plants |
Neutralizes minerals |
Cons |
---|
Pricey |
Check It Out On Amazon
7.Whirlpool WHES40
The Whirlpool WHES40 is a compact unit with a control head that helps you customize the setting for your water conditions and usage. So, become a hero in your home. Install this unit so that your family is pleased with the impact on their hair and skin. Your appliances will not get gummed up with film and, therefore, will last much longer without constant maintenance. Your clothes will look cleaner and feel softer. This unit is suitable for families up to 6 members.
The Whirlpool WHES40 is NSF hified to reduce hard water issues such as stains in the toilet or washbasins, buildup on your faucets, and spotting on dishes. NSF is an international designation from a third-party organization that tests a variety of products for health and safety.
Several aspects of the unit are very positive. The Whirlpool WHES40 runs efficiently, reducing the amount of salt and water it uses. The sleek design of the Whirlpool WHES40 is appealing. The low salt light indicator is a helpful reminder so that you can add this item to your grocery shopping list when you see the light.
When your family starts complaining about the condition of their skin or hair, is disappointed with the cleanliness of their clothes, or is spending a lot of time cleaning appliances or the shower stall, it is time to take action. The Whirlpool WHES40 not only looks streamlined but is runs efficiently. You will appreciate how easy it is to install, but your family will be amazed by the difference in the water they use daily.
Pros |
---|
NSF certification |
Sleek appearance |
Low salt indicator |
Efficient running |
Easy to install & operate |
Cons |
---|
Uses salt |
Expensive |
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8.Pentair WS48
You can expect great quality from the Pentair as it is one of the well-known Fleck line of water softeners. You will be impressed with the study tanks, engineered connectors, and easy to read control unit. The programming options are simple to use.
There are several safety and warranty features that will give you peace of mind while the unit is running. There is a safety float which prevents over filling, the overflow drain also limits the water from escaping the tank and the bypass valve is handy whenever you need to complete work on the softener. The warranty is 5 years on the valve and 10 years on the tanks. This valve has been tested and has run for 27 years continuously.
The system is an on-demand operation so that you will use less salt. It will produce 75 gallons of water per minute. For your convenience the system comes with a hardness test strip so you can monitor its effectiveness.
If you are looking for a reliable, well built softener, you will enjoy the Pentair. Although it is somewhat pricey, it does come with many desirable features for safety and ease of use. Don’t put up with brittle hair and dry skin any longer. Enjoy clean clothes, sparkling dishes and shining shower stalls. You will see the difference in your water within days perhaps even hours.
Pros |
---|
Bypass valve, no shutting off the main water supply |
Simple design with simple adjustment |
Comes with hardness test strip |
On demand operation |
5 year warranty on the valve |
10 year warranty on the tanks |
Brine tank holds 250 lbs of salt |
Safety float for over filling |
Overflow drain |
75 gallons of water per minute |
Cons |
---|
Uses salt |
Pricy |
Written instructions needed more details |
Check It Out On Amazon
9.Genesis 2
Discount Water Softeners, a trustworthy brand, is famous for its fantastic line of effective water softening units. They have more than 25 years of combined experience in commercial, industrial, and residential water treatment at Discount Water Softeners, Inc. They believe that equipment for water treatment should be provided with the utmost honesty and integrity for supply, service, and installation. They follow the guidelines of the Water Quality Association as appropriate methods for water treatment.
When it comes to the beneficial features, this model for softening water gets you hooked to it with the ever-lasting nature and high-quality. The 1-inch unique bypass effectively stabilizes the pressure of water flow. With the integrated turbine meter, this system works efficiently to provide you clean and pure water for drinking purposes and other uses. With the safety overflow float, the unit ensures that no water gets wasted. The reverse flow regeneration allows even more precise resin recycle.
Other than this, the resin tank comes with a lifetime warranty, so that you can contact the manufacturer in case of any leakage. The seven-year control head warranty ensures the long life of this water softening unit. It comes with installed electronic sensors for more reliable performance. The cycles are adjustable according to your preference. With the proven seal, no leakage is likely to occur. On top of this, the effortless installation of this system also makes it convenient and efficient for the customers.
Concluding all the details, the Genesis 2 by Discount Water Softeners. All the features that this system holds will contribute to providing an optimal solution to hard water problems. You may have to increase your budget to invest in this one, but it will undoubtedly be worth your efforts.
Pros |
---|
1″ unique bypass |
Integrated turbine meter |
Safety Overflow float |
Resin tank with lifetime warranty |
Seven-year control head warranty |
Large electronic sensors |
Adjustable cycles |
Proven seal |
Reverse Flow Regeneration |
Easy installation |
Cons |
---|
Relatively expensive |
Check It Out On Amazon
10.SoftPro RV
For the sake of product value, SoftPro employs a simple business justification to offer a competitive solution to its expertise and imagination. SoftPro is setting a strong target on its culture and talent to achieve this. SoftPro workers are living with solid values, and it’s through commitment that the road to better success. Their fundamental values are guided by the services they provide their employees with to their clients and their community. The large variety of devices to process water also contains this incredible SoftPro softener known as SoftPro RV.
While on the other side, this water softener for RV by SoftPro is going to win you through its efficiency and our team suggest them as the best portable RV water softener you can have for a reasonable cost. The availability of this unit is two different grain capacities that will do the job for you, whether you are traveling alone or with a partner. Moreover, the setup procedure is quite easy for you to go through. Other than this, the portable nature of this unit will allow you to have convenience in moving around with it, as this system is compact in size and light in weight as well.
By using this SoftPro RV water softening system, you will be able to clean your dishes more efficiently, as this water will leave no spots behind it. Moreover, it helps in preventing the build-up of scale as well. The fact that this unit comes with the lifetime warranty tag will make you feel comfortable during the purchase. Other than this, the free shipping will also reduce the total investment. The water produced by this system is perfect for washing your RV as well.
All in all, this system for softening water is a must-have if you travel more often in your RVs. The easy setup and portable nature of this product make it amazingly efficient for you to use. As it is available in two different grain capacities, you can choose the required one conveniently.
Pros |
---|
Available in two different grain capacities |
Easy to set up |
Compact and light in weight |
Protection from scale-up |
Portable |
Easy installation |
Free shipping |
Lifetime warranty |
Cons |
---|
No instructions included |
Water Softeners Buyer’s Guide & Tips
Everyone hates the problems of hard water. It has a drying effect on your hair and skin. It seems as if the dishwasher isn’t working right because your dishes have spots or a greasy film. Your clothes don’t seem to be as bright a color as they should be. You are regularly cleaning the shower and showerhead to remove the build-up of minerals. If your water supply has too much calcium and magnesium, you can solve all of these daily issues with a water softener.
The question now remains. “which one is the best for my family?” There are many types from which to select. This guide will help you make the right decision for you.
A Whole House System Solution
If your current living conditions include a single-family dwelling, you will need a high quality softener in your whole house water filter system that connects to the main water supply to cover all rooms in your home: the kitchen, every bathroom, the laundry room, the outside cooking area, and even the garage. But is you are in an apartment or an RV, a much smaller version can be installed to meet your needs.
Rated for the Right Number of People
Each of the units is rated for a specific number of people. If you have a larger family, you will need to make sure that the softener is rated to include the higher water usage. If only a few people need this service, then most units will suffice.
Salt or No Salt
Some family members may be on a salt-reduced diet. It is essential to their health that they follow the doctor’s orders. In that case, you have 2 choices. Select the correct type of softener or always have another source of water available for them for drinking. Look for a water softener unit that does not need salt added.
Physical Size
Many of the units are quite large as they hold a considerable amount of salt. You will need to assess the location of your main water feed. If it is in cramped quarters, it will be necessary for you to research the measurements of the softener carefully.
Complications in Programming
Most of the units come with a default setting or a limit on the variation for programming. Most people are happy with the results. But in cases where you have tested the water and know the amount of minerals you want to eliminate, you can reduce operating costs by tailoring the way the system works.
Intermittent Usage
Also, you may be in a situation in which you do not want the system to run on set intervals. Imagine that you are not in the home for days or weeks at a time. You will require a system that monitors the quality of the water and only responds when needed.
Ease of Installation
Homeowners who have enough plumbing experience are able to install the various type themselves. Often a video or a carefully written guide can make a critical difference in the process. In addition, informed responses from the company to queries can be vital to success. Read the reviews to determine the responsiveness of the different companies.
Warranty
All of the softeners have some sort of warranty. Consider each company policy carefully and read the reviews to see how well they respond to customer problems. Also that’s will help you to make a guaranteed investment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is a water softener worth it?
Water softening systems are quite costly, but they are undoubtedly worth the cost because soft water gives certain valuable advantages. Smooth skin looks silkier and allows hair more comfortable to handle and smoother. Water softening systems operate by the process of ion exchange. This process works by extracting the minerals that create the stiffness. These minerals include calcium and magnesium.
How long do water softeners last?
Depending on the type and quality you choose, water softening machines can last 10 to 20 years. However, generally speaking, an electric water softener with a single tank can last up to 12 years on average, whereas a Kinetico model can last up to 20 years.
Can I install a water softener myself?
Installing the water softer may be easy or hard. Basically, it depends on the design of the softener and the installation guidelines given with it. However, the installation of a water softener on your own allows you to work on the venture at your own tempo and without investing more money on plumbing work. If you are going to replace an old water softener, this can be accomplished in less than an hour.
Do water softeners need servicing?
Almost all water softeners are fully automatic, so they can run for years with relatively low upkeep as long as they are correctly designed and mounted. However, the most critical routine maintenance of water softener is to add the right type of water softening salt to the unit as needed.
What brand of a water softener is best?
The market is full of different brands producing distinctively-designed water softeners. All of them differ in price and quality. However, some of the best brands to manufacture this product are:
- APEC Futura
- Eco Pure
- Fleck water softener
- Harvey’s Crown
- Monarch Midi
Is there an alternative to a water softener?
Water softeners are extremely expensive when it comes to price. No doubt that these conventional systems are efficient in treating hard water, but they are cumbersome, too, as they require heavy salt bags. To avoid these drawbacks, a practical yet low in price alternative of these water softeners are available.
Conclusion
You will be amazed at the difference that a water softener can make in your daily life. They are so cost-effective that there is very little reason to put up with all of the inconveniences of hard water. And their impact can be seen in a matter of days if not hours.
Now I’ve only had Fleck softener in operation for a couple of months. But so far it has been working perfectly. I did have to call the seller during installation with a question about water being retained in the salt tank (my previous softener was a Sears and it never had standing water in the salt tank like this one does. The person I talked to was extremely helpful as well as pleasant to talk to. He also walked me through the program cycles (his help was actually more helpful than the YouTube video I watched). Our water is moderately hard. This softener might have been a little overkill, but I prefer that to struggling with equipment that can hardly keep up.
Thank you for your feedback – glad it’s working great for you!
It’s fantastic to learn that a water softener can last around 10 to 20 years. My wife and I are wanting to build our dream home and we were wondering how long a new water softener would last. I’ll be sure to tell her that we should expect a water softener to last a decade or two.