If you’re in the market for a water softener for your well water, check out our list of the best options. We’ve compiled this list based on price, efficiency, and customer satisfaction ratings, and have crowned the Springwell FutureSoft Water Softener as the top choice due to its salt-free system and lack of need for electricity.
BEST OVERALL | BEST BUDGET | BEST RUNNER UP |
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SpringWell Futuresoft Water Softener | Tier 1 Essential Series | Iron Pro 2 |
CHECK LATEST PRICE | CHECK LATEST PRICE | CHECK LATEST PRICE |
Our Top 5 Picks for the Best Water Softener for Well Water
Product Name | SpringWell FutureSoft Water Softener | Iron Pro 2 | Aquasana Rhino | Sulfur Filter Pro 3 5600 SXT | Tier 1’s 48,000-grain water filter |
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Ranking | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
Ratings | 5/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 5/5 |
Price | $1597.31 | $839 | $1399 | $1189 | $499 |
Process | Template Assisted Crystallization (TAC) | Ion Exchange | Filter System | Ion Exchange | - |
Flow Rate | Up to 20 GPM | Up to 20 GPM | Up to 16 GPM | Up to 16 GPM | Up to 11.2 GPM |
Grain Rate | Up to 81 GPG | Up to 85 GPG | - | Up to 64K | Up to 48K |
Max Iron | - | 6 PPM | - | 8 PPM | 0.3 PPM |
Are you tired of dealing with the negative effects of hard water in your home? From clogged pipes to stained fixtures, hard water can cause a variety of problems. The best solution is to install a water softener.
Water softeners remove minerals like salt levels, calcium, and magnesium from your water, making it softer and preventing build-up in your plumbing and fixtures. This results in cleaner laundry and dishes and helps to extend the life of your appliances.
Our Research
-
- The best water softeners for well water – detailed
- How and why does water harden?
- Types of water softeners
- Benefits of water softeners
- Well water hardness scale
- Choose based on water softener VS the number of users
- How can I decide what kind of unit, and what size I will need?
- How we chose the best well water softener
Our Picks for the Best Water Softener for Well Water
The recommendations listed below are made based on a combination of manufacturer specs, our own research and testing, and third-party well water softener reviews.
The SpringWell FutureSoft Water Softener system is a fully salt free appliance that requires no electricity unlike other systems.
It uses ion exchange to mitigate the issues found with hard water minerals that allows scale build up and is harmful to skin and hair.
Up to 55% off any purchase – Includes free shipping!
The water filter system keeps the good minerals that your body needs to make this system a healthy choice which is good for skin, hair, food and even your clothes.
The pre-filtering allows for the FutureSoft system to be fully optimized for cleaning the water as salt-free systems can become inoperable when coated with contaminants which include copper, oil, and silica.
Having these taking care of means better filtration in the main system and also prevents it from ever having to be changed.
The pre-filter will need to be changed once per year though. With less limescale build-up and other contaminants, your household appliances will need fewer repairs and also stains will be removed with this system in play.
This is one of the more expensive systems but for good reason as stated above it has many advantages to it so getting this installed would essentially be a great purchase if you can afford it.
You can check the current offer here – Up to 55% off any purchase – Includes free shipping!
The Fleck Iron Pro 2 is the best water softener for well water for those on a budget.
It’s an advanced water softener that’s effective in reducing mineral content in your water. Plus, it has a built-in iron filter, designed to remove iron, manganese, rust, and sediment.
For well water with iron, this added filtration technology is essential, as traditional water softeners won’t necessarily remove iron and other heavy metals effectively.
This is a heavy-duty setup, with a 64,000 grain capacity and a high flow rate. It can easily handle the water needs of a 4-6 person family, supplying water to the whole house.
It can remove hardness up to 75gpg, which means it’s suitable for even the hardest water sources.
The valve is the popular Fleck 5600SXT digital control valve, which features an LCD display with intuitive touchpad controls.
It’s also built to last – the brine tank is warrantied for 10 years, and the digital control valve is backed by a 5-year warranty. Click here to learn more
Express Water Heavy Metal Whole House Water Filter
Features of the Water Heavy Metal Whole House Water Filter
- This product is made with stainless steel material
- It produces 0.25 gallons capacity per second
- This filter uses a three-stage filtration process to remove impurities from water, including lead, copper, and iron
- It is easy to install
- Safe on water
- Includes an installation guide
- It has three easily accessible pressure release buttons for quick filter changes
For households concerned about water quality, the Express Water Heavy Metal Whole House Water Filter is an ideal solution. This filter removes pollutants from water using a three-stage filtration technique, including lead, copper, and iron.
The first stage of the filter traps large particles, such as sediment and sand. The second stage removes smaller particles, such as rust and dirt. The third stage removes dissolved minerals and heavy metals with activated carbon blocks.
This filter is also effective at reducing chlorine taste and odor. Installation is simple and does not require any tools. The filter can be used with both municipal and private well water. It has a flow rate of 10 gallons per minute and can be used with up to two bathrooms.
The Express Water Heavy Metal Whole House Water Filter is an affordable and easy way to improve your water quality.
Luxury: Aquasana Rhino
Key Features: Designed for well water; salt-free softener; whole house water filter; removes contaminants and reduces mineral concentration Price Range: $$$ – Save 50% with code AQWFD50
The Aquasana Rhino Well Water is an advanced filtration and water softening system built into one product. It’s designed specifically for well water, and is effective in reducing mineral content and removing contaminants, chlorine, and sediment.
It’s a whole-house setup, designed to filter up to 500,000 gallons per minute and last roughly 5 years. It’s also unique in that it does not require electricity or back flushing, so it’s more environmentally friendly than some options as commonly pointed out in many Aquasana reviews.
Thanks to its post-filter, the Aquasana Rhino provides excellent protection and filtering. The post-filter has a micron rating of 0.35, meaning that it collects even the most minute of particles.
This is a pricey unit – but it’s worthwhile if you are concerned about your water quality.
The innovative mix of activated carbon, copper-zinc & mineral filters do a great job of removing chlorine, heavy metals and other common contaminants.
The UV light filter further purifies your water by killing 99.99% of viruses and bacteria (including E. coli and giardia).
You can save 50% with code AQWFD50 when you purchase direct from Aquasana. You can also buy this setup on Amazon.
Released as an advancement in their Iron Pro series, the AFW uses new Iron and Sulfur Filter Pro 3 5600 SXT 64,000 Grain Water Softener which makes a difference when removing the eggy sulfur scent that the water carries.
Water that stains everything and smells like hard-boiled eggs is nearly unusable. In case it carries both, the Iron and Sulfur Filter Pro 3 will watch out for both of these.
The Fleck SXT valves consequently trigger a regeneration cycle when your home’s water utilize approaches the 64,000-grain setting.
The recurrence is decided by how numerous grains per gallon you’ve programmed into the control head. A lower GPM estimate allows more gallons of water to flow through the tank whereas a higher GPM triggers it to flow more regularly, providing you with softer and cleaner water.
With a high grain capacity controlled by a Fleck SXT valve, the capacity to expel sulfur and manganese, and a stream rate of 16 gallons per minute, the AFW Filters Pro 3 may be an awesome model accessible.
A 5-year warranty covers the control head of this water softening system, and a 10-year warranty covers the tank.
This simple system lets you know when the softener needs to be regenerated. You won’t have to bother cleaning it, because a meter-based regeneration system manages it with digital control.
The Fleck 5600SXT digital metered valve’s user-friendly interface allows you to alter its settings quickly, and the built-in iron filter guarantees that you always get iron-free water out of the tank.
With the most elevated grain filtering capacity between regeneration cycles, a sensible cost, amazingly high water flow, and substituting regeneration tanks, this is unquestionably one of the best twin tank water softeners for hard well water.
The stream rate is 18 gallons per minute. That’s sufficient to supply small business, and, in reality, we do suggest this as a commercial model.
You’ll be able to take advantage of commercial power and capacity at your home.
The 48,000-grain per tank filter capacity will moreover spare you cash by regenerating less frequently, less than once per week. Each tank filters 48,000 grains of heavy minerals.
As they reach their filtering capacity, the 9100 SXT control valve triggers one tank to regenerate, and after that the second when the primary is finished.
A single-tank water softener can’t prepare water while it’s recovering. Having two tanks allows your system to proceed with processing water through one tank while the other cycles.
Tier 1’s 48,000-grain water filter is perfect for a family of four. It has a quality control head with a user-friendly LCD that shows the system’s status at a glance.
Appreciate add up to control over the softening prepare with programmable recovery cycles — select from coordinated or metered plans.
The manual bypass valve lets you recover the framework without turning off the water for your comfort. When water is very hard, undersized conditioners will work, but they’ll regenerate as well regularly to be productive.
For water with normal hardness, Tier 1’s liberal 48,000-grain capacity is a bounty for a family of four.
Test your water sometime before buying, and in the event that you’re not sure which size is best for you and your family, Teir1’s water specialists will be happy to help you.
The Whirlpool WHES40E is recommended for families of 1-6+ people in need of a reliable way of softening their water. This model is manufactured within the USA, and you’ll be beyond any doubt of its quality and strength.
It is additionally NSF certified, which means it decreases hard water signs like stains and clogging of your faucets and plumbing.
This water softener will regenerate based on your hardness level and how much water you really utilize. So, this comes handy in critical salt and water savings.
Additionally, this WHES40E water softener cleanser does not waste water by regenerating unlike some of the competitor softeners, while you’re on vacation and you’ll not run out of the soft water in case you utilize more water than normal.
Water softeners need to regenerate to continue softening water. With Demand Initiated Regeneration, this Whirlpool unit monitors your water usage and only regenerates when necessary, minimizing your water and salt usage.
Older timer-based models regenerate on a set cycle regardless of how much water you’ve used; which can result in unnecessary water and salt consumption, plus it ensures that your softener always provides soft water for your entire home, while also minimizing the amount of salt used.
Whirlpool Water Softeners are one of the most salt-efficient units in the industry and it removes a maximum of 125 gpg of hardness. The Whirpool WHES40E triggers an additional backwash cycle to rid itself and your water supply of excess non-ferrous (clear water) iron.
Ferrous iron removal up to 10ppm, additionally it flashes when the softener is getting low on salt, allowing you a few days to refill the salt tank. It delivers maximum water flow even when multiple water-using devices (showers, appliances) are in use. Connects to plumbing up to 1-1/4″ in diameter.
Most Compact: Hard Water Bullet
Key Features: Lightweight and small; easy to install; lifetime usage Price Range: $
We have to mention that compact water softener is totally salt-free. We aren’t planning to talk about any grain here and this is often the main difference from all other units in this class.
It can be installed outside as waterproofing isn’t an issue.
An issue is the cold temperatures. So as long as you’re beyond any doubt that the unit will not freeze if applied in your exterior, mount it wherever you want.
It’s distinctive from a customary water softener in that it does not expel hard grains from your water. Instead, it crystallizes and coats the grains in polyphosphate so that they don’t stick to your pipes, sinks, tubs, hair, and dress.
The Hard Water Bullet connects as a pass-through onto your municipal or well water supply line. Weighing only 4 pounds with a 9” x 10” profile it’s really small in design so you’ll barely know it’s there but does its job really well. Simply bolt it to the wall with the bracket, and on top of every positive comment added for this water softener, you will spare yourself some space.
You’ll also need to re-fill the Hard Water Bullet with polyphosphates every 6-12 months. Including polyphosphates is a simple assignment.
Basically turn the water off and empty the waterline sometime before unscrewing the cover and pouring within the polyphosphates.
Polyphosphates are utilized in city water treatment facilities and posture no hazard to your wellbeing, to your appliances, or your plumbing.
This Poly Triple Action water softener does have a 30-micron channel to capture dregs and gives 30 gallons of water per minute.
The H2oEliteLabs EWC-Max is the perfect water conditioner and softener system that works for the entire plumbing system of your house. Whether it’s a water heater, faucets, or showers, the H2oEliteLabs EWC-Max helps you get rid of limescale and calcium buildup for safer and cleaner water.
This device uses chemical-free and salt-free technology to get rid of the hardness of the water. It runs on a low-maintenance and eco-friendly mechanism to produce high-quality, pure water for your entire family.
The soft water produced by the H2oEliteLabs EWC-Max doesn’t just give you access to safe drinking water but also makes your cleaning duties less hectic. In the absence of the hard water elements, your kitchen sink, showers, and toilets require less cleaning, and their overall efficiency receives a considerable boost.
The best part about the H2oEliteLabs EWC-MAX system is that it’s effortless to install and can be done without professional help. It goes well with CPVC, PEX, and PVC pipes and offers University and Lab-tested water for domestic use.
The GE Appliances 40,000 Grain Water Softener comes with a customized blending valve that helps you select the level of softness you want in your water. It works on salt-saver technology that uses 34% less salt to eliminate the hardness of your water, which in turn reduces your salt consumption.
It’s super easy to use, and you never have to worry about guessing the right time to fill up the salt tank. What makes the GE Appliances 40,000 Grain Water Softener better than most other water softeners is that it uses 35% less water and helps you save a little on your water bills.
This modern water softener comes with a sediment filter that facilitates self-cleanup. The unmatchable efficiency of these water softeners delivers quality water for your use and enhances the durability of your plumbing system.
The EcoPure EP31 31,000 Grain Water Softener uses Autosense Technology to judiciously use salt and water in their water processing to ensure zero wastage or overuse of water and salt.
The water softener is NSF-certified and is efficient in eliminating buildup, corrosion, and staining. This enhances the durability of your plumbing system and assists in its smooth operation.
It’s also easy to use and comes with responsive programming controls and a compact design making it great for both urban and rural locations.
Best For Quality: Whirlpool WHELJ1 Central Water Filtration System
Features of Whirlpool WHELJ1
- This water softener comes with clips, a manual, a bypass valve, a drain hose, hose clamps, an adapter elbow, and a grommet
- It features a self-cleaning filter technology – every 14 days, the filter is automatically flushed and cleaned using Filter Sense Technology. The filter won’t need to be changed during the duration of the system
- It is very easy to install
- It is capable of removing 120 grains per gallon
- Filtration down to 40 microns
The Whirlpool WHELJ1 is one of the best house water softener systems on the market today. This system uses a unique filtration process to remove excess salt, minerals, and impurities from your water supply, leaving you with clean and soft water.
The Whirlpool WHELJ1 also features a built-in pre-filter to remove sediment and other particles from your water before it enters the main unit. This system is easy to install and comes with all the necessary hardware and instructions.
The Whirlpool WHELJ1 has a durable metal construction and is backed by a 1-year warranty. This system is an excellent choice for those who want clean, soft water without the hassle of installing a traditional water softener.
How And Why Does Water Harden?
Water is constantly circulating in nature. Some of the surface water evaporates and returns in the form of precipitation. Due to the natural content of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, precipitation becomes slightly acidic, and thus an excellent solvent.
Such precipitation dissolves substances of organic and inorganic origin in the deeper layers of the earth. When water heats up and passes through pipes, the minerals present in the water (calcium and magnesium salts) cause stone to form on the walls of the pipes, thus reducing the diameter of the pipes, clogging them up. It is especially harmful to boilers, boilers, washing machines, humidifiers, coffee machines, etc.
Stone depositing can be most effectively prevented by using water softeners that work on the principle of ion exchange. In these devices, water passes through a layer of ionic mass and binds to Ca and Mg ions, and their place is taken by Na ions that do not form precipitation. Because the ionic mass is saturated after a certain amount of softened water is produced, it needs to be regenerated.
Each water has a certain hardness that consists of the salts of magnesium and calcium dissolved in it. In many technological processes and at home, that hardness and stubbornness causes problems. Ion exchange filters are used to remove the hardness, the so-called water softeners.
The softeners are actually filtered columns supplemented with a certain amount of ion exchange mass. This mass (the so-called resin) binds the ions of calcium and magnesium and thus softens the water.
When the ion exchange mass is saturated, the solution is regenerated with a solution of table salt (NaCl), during which the mass is reactivated and is trained to continue softening.
How Do Water Softeners Work?
Water softeners work by passing hard water through a mineral tank and purifying it. A negative electrical charge bed of plastic or resin beads is present in the tank. The resin’s negative charge attracts the positive charge of “hard” particles like magnesium and calcium, causing them to stick to the beads and be removed from the water.
The water softener goes through a regeneration cycle to remove the hard particles from the beads over time. The unit’s control valve pumps a mixture of salt and water from the brine tank into the resin bed. The salt then attracts the minerals from the beads, and the excess detritus is pushed out of the system and down the drain.
Regeneration cycles should take place at least once a week, maybe more frequently. This frequency is determined by various parameters, including the hardness of your water and the amount of water you use. Generally, the more water you consume and the harsher the water, the more frequent regeneration cycles ought to be.
On average, regeneration cycles use around 50 gallons of water, but this varies depending on the water softening system you’re using. Also, keep in mind that you cannot use the device during the regeneration cycle unless it’s a dual-tank water softener.
There’s also no real need for you to replace the resin beads. Just make sure to refill the brine tank with water softener salt regularly to keep your water softening system in good condition.
The frequency with which you must replace the salt is determined by the size of the salt tank in your water softener system and the frequency with which regeneration cycles occur.
Types Of Softeners
Softeners can be manual and automatic. In the manual process, the man participates in the process of regeneration and reactivation, while in the automatic actuators, the man is replaced by an automatic valve that is mounted on a filter column.
For most regions of the country, the problem of hard water is relevant. Whether it’s the main water, or it comes from a well or a well on a private plot.
Filters with rough mechanical cleaning are not able to remove solid solids, as there are special softeners for home use in apartments, private houses, or cottages.
If professionals are mainly interested in the technical aspects of softening specifications, then the operational ones are equally important for the owners:
- Modest: the owner’s dream – set it up and forget about the next back-to-back salt, plus the less attention and maintenance requires, the better.
- Efficiency – so that softening does not require large regular costs.
- Convenience – the greater the role of automation, the easier it is to manage the softener.
A Little More About Water Softeners
Water softeners help to remove magnesium, calcium, and other minerals that can result in hard water.
Over time, hard water can cause damage to appliances as well as affect the condition of your skin and hair.
However, before you invest in a water softener, it is important to know a little bit more about them.
Types Of Water Softeners
There are three kinds of water softener devices you can buy:
Salt-Based
Salt-based water softener systems are the most popular for use in the home. For these to work effectively, they need to be inspected and maintained regularly.
If you intend to use such a system in your home, you will also need to ensure you have a good supply of potassium or sodium chloride on hand because the tank where the salt is held needs to be kept topped up for regeneration purposes.
Salt-based water softener systems tend to have a ten-year lifespan. Some may need replacing before the ten years is up – it all depends on the water quality and how often the system is being used.
Salt-Free
Salt-free water softeners do not remove magnesium or calcium particles from the water. Instead, they neutralize the particles, preventing them from adhering to the surfaces they come into contact with appliances or plumbing fixtures.
Electromagnetic
Like salt-free systems, this type of water softener device doesn’t eliminate calcium and magnesium particles from the hard water. Rather, it uses technology that enables the particles to be neutralized and prevents them from being able to stick to parts of your home’s plumbing or household appliances.
The main benefits of these salt-free and electromagnetic water softener systems include:
- They prevent the build-up of scale inside appliances or plumbing fixtures
- You do not need to buy a supply of salt regularly to keep the system topped up
Choosing the Right Size Water Softener System for Your Home
If you live in a large house with several bathrooms, you need a water softener system with a high service water flow rate.
The water softener system’s flow rate is measured in GPM (gallons per minute). This helps to determine just how many faucets and showers can be used at the same time without the water pressure dropping or hard water getting through the system.
These are the water flow rate measurements for a home that you need to keep in mind when buying any water softener system:
- Kitchen faucets: water flow rate of 1.5-2.0 GPM
- Bathroom faucets: water flow rate of 1.0 GPM
- Toilets: water flow rate of 3.0 GPM
Benefits of Water Softeners
Hard water is a common issue for those on well systems. If left unaddressed, hard water can cause all sorts of problems. Hard water can degrade and damage appliances, dry out skin and hair, and leave unsightly mineral buildup in your shower and on your faucets.
A water softener is a savior for households suffering from the effects of hard water. A water filtration system may be the ideal option for your home if you want better-tasting and clean water.
Here are five of the main benefits to owning a water softener:
Helps Reduce Heavy Minerals
Using a good water softener for well water with iron and other contaminants can help to reduce the mineral content of your water.
Reduce the Risk of Pipe and Faucet Damage
Hard water produces a scaly buildup in pipes and faucets, not to mention it can clog showerheads and valves as well. A water softener prevents mineral buildup in pipes, appliances and near faucets. It extends your fixtures’ life and efficiency by removing the buildup of these minerals.
Keep Your Skin Soft and Well-nourished
Hard water’s magnesium and calcium combine with anions in soaps, resulting in soap scum or sticky skin on your body. Additionally, using dry water on your skin can cause acne.
A water softener softens your hard water, which can help keep your skin and hair softer and your laundry fresher and softer.
Water Appliances Have a Longer Life
Hard water minerals can accumulate in dishwashers, washing machines, coffee makers, and other water-related appliances. This can lead to mineral blockage within these devices, causing them to burn out.
So, if you want to keep the minerals out of these appliances (which we’re sure you do), you must invest in a quality water softener.
Helps Prevent Hard Water Associated Health Concerns
According to Global Health and Pharma, the following are five health-related consequences of drinking and using a hard well water supply:
- High calcium levels in your water supply can lead to stones in the kidneys or urinary tract.
- Hard water can cause dry skin.
- Hard water can cause dehydration due to a lack of consumption owing to poor taste, smell, and appearance.
- Some fertility issues are thought to be related to the hardness of the water you drink.
A water softener can remove excess hard minerals such as calcium and magnesium from your water, protecting you and your family from the long-term health effects of hard water.
Cleaning is a Breeze
Dishes and textiles washed in hard water may develop streaks, water spots, white stains, and soapy residue. Softened water, on the other hand, doesn’t pose all these problems.
Water softeners in general offer a lot of benefits.
However, some of them simply aren’t designed to handle well water. The best water softener for well water will be specifically designed to handle the higher iron and mineral content of water sourced from wells.
Benefits at a glance:
- Prevents build-up of minerals (scale) on the interior of channels, installations, and warm water heaters.
- Lengthens the life of a few appliances.
- Reduces or prevents mineral spots on glassware.
- Prevents or decreases soap films and cleanser curds in sinks, baths, and washing machines
Well Water Hardness Scale
How hard is well water usually? How does your water stack up to your neighbors, or to those on city tap systems? The answer to these questions can vary quite a bit, depending on your location, how your well is built, and your water source.
The Water Quality Association maintains a water hardness scale while the US Geological Survey has data on water hardness around the country.
Degree of Hardness | Grains per Gallon (gpg) | ppm (or mg/L) |
Soft | <1.0 | <17.0 |
Slightly Hard | 1.0-3.5 | 17.1-60 |
Moderately Hard | 3.5-7.0 | 60-120 |
Hard | 7.0-10.5 | 120-180 |
Very Hard | >10.5 | >180 |
Source: WQA.org To find out how hard your water is, we recommend completing a well water water test at home, and comparing your results to the hardness scale referenced above.
Choose The Right Softener Based On The Water Hardness vs. Users
Hardness in GPG | 1 to 2 people* | 3 to 4 people* | 5 to 6 people* | 7 to 8 people* |
5-10 GPG | 32,000 Grain | 32,000 Grain | 32,000 Grain | 40,000 Grain |
11-20 GPG | 32,000 Grain | 32,000 Grain | 40,000 Grain | 48,000 Grain |
21-30 GPG | 32,000 Grain | 40,000 Grain | 80,000 Grain | 96,000 Grain |
31-40 GPG | 40,000 Grain | 64,000 Grain | 64,000 Grain | 96,000 Grain |
41-50 GPG | 64,000 Grain | 80,000 Grain | 96,000 Grain | 110,000 Grain |
51-75 GPG | 64,000 Grain | 80,000 Grain | 96,000 Grain | 110,000 Grain |
76-100 GPG | 80,000 Grain | 96,000 Grain | 96,000 Grain | 110,000 Grain |
How can I decide what kind of unit, and what size I will need?
Filter frameworks are measured based on one or two of components:
- Sort and sum of broken down mineral present in your water;
- Your home’s stream rate, which is regularly based on the number of individuals living within the household.
For filter systems, this data basically tells us what the fastest rate your water will travel through our units would be, and how much water in gallons per day is being utilized.
Water softeners are sized based on the entire hardness of your water, and the number of individuals within the household. Most all-residential applications have around a normal 5 GPM stream rate.
Regularly, the higher the stream rate of your water going through the unit, the bigger the mineral tank will be to handle the larger water flow rate. With a larger tank, the filtering media or resin will be physically more profound in this manner allowing the water flowing down through it to be in contact with the media longer.
Contact time is imperative, as the media/resin inside the tank needs to be in contact with your water for a long enough period of time, ensuring all dissolved impurities are removed before it leaves the tank.
How To Test The Water Hardness?
Here are four tests to accurately zero in on the hardness of water:
DIY Water Hardness Test Strips
A home water test kit is the most convenient (and probably the best) way to test your water for hardness. A standard kit will typically include water test strips and a color chart. You can use this method to determine whether your water is soft or hard, and if it’s hard, how hard it is!
To use the strip, fill a container halfway with tap water and immerse the test strip. Then, compare the resulting strip color to the color chart included with the kit. Each color on the chart corresponds to your water’s hardness, with results measured in grains per gallon (gpg). The instructions will show you how to ascertain the hardness of your water based on the results.
Run the Numbers
If a city or municipal water supply provides your home, you can contact the water utility and request the most recent water quality report. Many utilities also make their reports available online.
These reports can be quite technical, and they may not reflect the water quality directly at your tap, because water is assessed as it leaves the treatment facility, and water can pick up mineral deposits from the piping route to your house. That said, water quality reports can certainly give you a good idea of the general water hardness in your area.
Conduct a Visual Check
Another method for testing water hardness is to visually inspect everything with which your water comes into contact. Examine your sinks, utensils, bathtubs, plates, and so on.
Hard water leaves a distinct crusty scale, especially on faucets and dishes. Water softeners that are properly maintained will eliminate this crusty scale and negate any other adverse effects of hard water.
Foam Test
A chemical reaction occurs when hard water minerals come into contact with soap, preventing the soap from lathering.
As a result, lathering your skin with soap is a simple yet effective way to test water hardness. Soft water will produce a lot of bubbles, whereas hard water will cause the soap to stick to your skin, resulting in a film rather than a soapy lather.
Alternatively, you can add 4-5 drops of liquid detergent or dishwashing to a bottle and close the cap. Shake the bottle vigorously for 5 seconds. Look at the foam. If the foam remains for an extended period, the water is soft; if the foam dissipates quickly, the water is hard.
Special Mention Products
The SoftPro Elite Water Softener for Well Water is one of the most effective water softening options available on the market right now. If you have a larger home or an active family who uses a lot of water, the SoftPro Elite may be the ideal solution to your hard water problems.
The Springwell SS is a premium softener system worth its high price tag due to a slew of industry-leading features. This is perhaps one of the best softener systems you can buy if you have extremely hard water at your home.
Quantum is a well-known manufacturer of water filtration systems and softeners for domestic drinking water issues. The Quantum HE PRO AR1 Water Softener justifies its high price tag with its exceptional efficiency and massive capacity.
Softpro Commercial Pro Water Softener systems are something you buy once and use for the rest of your life. This is a good choice if you want to install a water softener that can cater to a large number of people.
If you live in low pH areas, such as the Northeast, where acid rain often causes havoc on well water, SoftPro pH Neutralizer is a great solution. This system uses calcite to alter the water’s pH level.
The Pentair is a dependable water softener for well systems that you can use in practically any home. It offers excellent water softening capabilities, a commendable water flow rate, and an easy-to-use valve controller.
If you’re looking for a dependable and efficient water softener, consider the Pentair WS48-56sxt10 to get some bang for your buck. It has a relatively large tank and can hold up to 48,000 grains, which is more than enough for a family of six.
The Pelican PSE1800 is a whole-house water filter that doubles up as a salt-free softener. However, your water must be free of iron, manganese, and hydrogen sulfide to use the Pelican THD-PSE1800 Water Softener.
If you want a tank-free system that doesn’t use salt or media to condition water, the Yarna water descaler system is for you. With over 500 positive customer reviews, the Yarna is worth serious consideration if you’re skeptical about electronic water conditioners.
If you don’t want to get a salt-based water softener for whatever reason, the Pelican Water Systems NaturSoft Salt-Free Water Softener salt-free system is a great way to protect your home and family! It also fits perfectly in small spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to install a water softener?
As with other house appliances, the installation of the water softener can vary depending on the type you purchase. If you want to install it yourself, it may cost around $300, but if you want to call a professional and the water softener installation is very complicated it may cost around $3000.
How do I know what size of water softener is right for me?
You can do some calculations to know the right size you need, by including the square footage of your house and the number of house members. Also, you need to determine your water hardness and iron level for this formula.
How frequently does a water softener resin need to be changed?
Most manufacturers say that the resin loss can be up to 5% per year, meaning that in 10 years of usage, the raisin capacity will drop by 50%. Having this in mind, the optimal time to change your water softener resin would be from 12 to 15 years of usage.
Should I prioritize water softeners that are certificated?
Yes, if the water softener is certified by NSF, then the quality of the product is guaranteed. This means that the NSF have tested and used the water softener in their labs and made sure of it’s quality and function.
Can the water softener remove iron from the well water?
Yes, it can remove iron from the well water, although the ratio of iron and water hardness must be sufficient so the ion exchange will remove the iron.
What are the effects of using hard water?
Hard water can do a lot of damage to your house appliances over time. It reduces the lifespan of any appliance that is connected to the water line. It also does damage to your clothes when using the washing machine, and it can do harm to your skin.
Do water softeners make a lot of noise?
Definitely not, the only noise you are going to hear is the water running through its system.
What type of water softener should I get?
Although salt is the most efficient way to soften water, the effects of hardness are usually proportional to mineral levels. For total hardness greater than 10 GPG, we recommend a salt-based system. On the other hand, a salt-free conditioner may be sufficient for levels less than 10 GPG without the drawbacks associated with salt.
What Is The Purpose Of A Water Softener?
Water softeners aid in the removal of harsh minerals such as calcium and magnesium from your water. Resin beads are placed inside the softer trap of your unit, converting calcium and magnesium to sodium and potassium, leaving your water smoother on your hair, skin, and clothes.
Do Water Softeners Consume a Lot of Power?
No, water softeners do not require much electricity to operate. That’s because the control heads in these systems don’t require a lot of energy, and there’s no need for an electric water pump to help them out; they just take advantage of your plumbing’s existing water pressure.
Why Does Soft Water Feel Slick And Smooth?
Hard water, high in calcium and magnesium, significantly impacts soap lathering and hinders it from properly dissolving in water.
Soap scum adheres to surfaces like dishes, clothes, and skin a lot quicker than you might think. Soft water makes it easier for soap to slide off the skin, making showering more pleasant.
Is It Possible To Use A Water Softener With Well Water?
A water softening system is an ideal addition to a well water setup since most private wells generate water with moderate-to-high quantities of hard minerals. Water softeners allow well owners to create drinking water comparable to the best municipal water.
What Is Hard Water, and How To Test for It?
Any water with a high mineral content is referred to as hard water, and is generally loaded with:
- Magnesium carbonate
- Calcium ions
- Other minerals in trace amounts
It’s natural for minerals like magnesium and calcium to accumulate in the water cycle, and it can occur in both well and city water. The more that calcium and magnesium dissolve in the water, the harder it gets.
Although hard water is safe to drink and wash with, a high degree of water hardness can cause many inconvenient, embarrassing, and costly hick-ups, including:
- Nasty stains in tubs and sinks
- Higher water bills as a result of water appliances pushing harder
- Cost of replacing clothing and linens ruined by hard water
There are various methods for testing hard water, the most precise one being a test by an independent laboratory using a sample you provide. That said, a comprehensive test can be both costly and time-consuming.
You can also gauge the hardness of water using a water test kit, commonly available online and at retail stores, such as hardware stores. Fill a container halfway with tap water, submerge the paper test strip in it, and compare the strip’s color to the kit’s chart. Follow the inference guidelines to the dot to reach the correct outcome.
How We Chose
Softening & Filtering: Most people on well systems will want some sort of water softener – and they’ll also probably want a water filter for their drinking water. We chose several systems that combine both, allowing for effective water filtration and softening in one.
Water Flow/Capacity: We chose whole-house systems that are built to handle a large volume of water, and maintain good water pressure. All our recommendations can handle the water needs of a family household.
Reviews: We focused our efforts on testing and research – but we also looked at well water softener reviews from customers. This was the best way to evaluate how well each unit worked with a variety of water sources.
Durability: These systems can get pricey, so we wanted to choose units that were built to last for a long time. We looked at build quality, materials used, data from reviews, as well as warranty info to make a call on how durable a system may be.
Cost: Water softeners are a significant investment, and our cost research sought to identify the systems that offered the best value for money. The water softeners for well water in this guide range from $1000 to $2500, depending on the size of the system, the quality of the resin, and the brand’s popularity.
Control and Efficiency of the System: We preferred water softeners that were the most user-friendly. Most of the best well water softeners include digital touchscreen control heads, and some even have a Bluetooth app for easy operation.
Have any more questions about finding the best water softener for well water?
Comment below and we’ll help you out.
Check out this guide if you’re interested in buying a well water softener from Softpro

Austin is the lead water consultant and blogger for Water Filter Data. With 10 years of experience in the water quality industry, Austin can instantly pinpoint the cure and the cause for the water pollutant.