Best Whole House Water Softener | Expert Opinion

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There are several options for the best water softener, depending on your needs and budget. Some of the top-rated water softeners include:

• GE GXSH40V Water Softener

• Whirlpool 40,000-Grain Water Softener

• WaterBoss 36,400-Grain Water Softener

• DuraWater 48,000-Grain Water Softener

• YARNA Capacitive Electronic Water Descaler

• Pelican Water NaturSoft Water Softener Alternative System

It is recommended to research and compare different models before making a purchase this is why we have our guide.

A high-quality water softener eliminates calcium, magnesium, and other hard water minerals from your water supply, which can harm appliances, aggravate hair and skin conditions, and leave buildup on surfaces in your kitchen and bathroom.

All of those factors hinder clean water from entering our bodies, which can further affect our health, skin smoothness, and more. I am sure everyone would want to take care of their bodies and want to keep their skin as young as possible. Therefore if you are looking for the best whole house water softener, look no further.

There are several different models available that will tackle your water problems. We will take a close look at each one. By the end of this whole house water softener review, you should have all of the information needed to make a buying decision. Let’s start off by explaining what a water softener is and present each different softener.

BEST OVERALL	BEST BUDGET	BEST RUNNER UP
SpringWell Water Salt-Free Water Softener	Whirlpool WHES30E 30,000 Grain Softener	AFWFilters WS48-56sxt10 Fleck
CHECK LATEST PRICE	CHECK LATEST PRICE	CHECK LATEST PRICE

 

Best House Water Softeners: Review

There is a multitude of choices to look at when buying a product like this, especially when it’s going to affect your daily lifestyle and will impact your health as well. Therefore you want to be cautious, and with respect to your time, we will present what we think the best House Water Softeners are and why they are a top tier on the marketplace.

 

The SpringWell Water Salt-Free treatment system is ideal for a household water flow of up to five gallons per minute. It produces healthy water by using the latest technology. In addition, its compact design and illustrious use life make it sure to fit any application. Say goodbye to high maintenance from saltwater softeners and say hello to healthier hair and skin.

The water softener is a device that can be attached to the inlet pipe of a boiler, and it will release ions into the water so that the hardness of water can be reduced. The descaler and conditioner take place inside the tank of our water softener. And it can remove impurities in water, further safeguarding our health.

SpringWell water softener offers the latest generation of ActivFlow technology. This residential system is compact and features a 1 HP pump for exceptional performance, while being engineered to fit into existing plumbing lines, including the neat T-bar riser package. Management and control are easy, thanks to electronic color touch panel programming.

Our water softener does an excellent job of eliminating the distinct odor of chlorine. You will feel more refreshed knowing that you are not introducing unusually high levels of this mineral in your body. We saw noticeable results after a few months.

Springwell’s product name makes it sound like it’s going to fix all your water problems. It does not. Water is not clean at all; in fact, it is contaminated with salts, minerals, and chemicals. SpringWell just modifies the characteristics of the particles that harden your water, so they are no longer capable of clinging onto your insides. Your pipes, faucets, and fixtures will be cleaner as a result.

This specific Water Softener removes the limescale and other mineral deposits that build up in pipes and water heaters. It also neutralizes the acidity in your hot water, making it much kinder to your skin and hair. It does not remove beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium so your body still benefits from them every time you drink or bathe in soft water.

SpringWell is an innovative, patented water softener system that replaces your current water conditioning equipment. By removing the need for a water softener salt tank and its disposal issues, SpringWell frees up space in your garage or basement where your existing water softening equipment is located. 

The SpringWell solution takes just minutes to install simply by connecting a garden hose to your existing plumbing pipes. It works through a powerful combination of filters and reverses osmosis technology, meaning you never have to clean or change it.

Pros

• Retains healthy minerals;
• Vigorous water pressure;
• Risk-free purchase;
• Wastes no water;
• Salt-free;

Cons

• No change indicator on the sediment filter;

 

 

The Fleck 5600SXT whole house water softener is designed to fit smaller homes with 4-6 users looking for great value for reasonable money. Made in the USA, this water softener provides 48,000-grain capacity and has a 35-pound salt capacity, as well as a digital display control for easy operation and monitoring.

Stepping into the bathtub is like stepping into a cloud because you have the fabulous Fleck 5600 with you. This is a water softener that has many great features. It’s designed to be user-friendly and its electronic controller checks your water usage pattern and adjusts accordingly. This means that when you use your tap you have soft water on tap.

 At the same time, it saves on your water bill by preventing the expensive flushing of hard water when there is no need for this. Also, its system gives you a clear warning if there is any problem or need for repairs.

With its ample capacity of 250 LBS of salt, you can be sure you are maximizing the lifetime of your water softener. The overflow drain is a discreet but absolutely necessary option to have in this case. We don’t want you spending valuable time with a mop and a bucket. It comes with a general 5-year warranty which covers the entire Fleck 5600SXT 48,000 grain water softener system, with an extended 10-year warranty on the brine tank.

In today’s market, finding a water softener that is economical, efficient, and environmentally friendly is no easy task. That’s why the Fleck Water Softener has experienced such great success since it was first introduced to the consumer market in 2008. 

The Fleck Water Softener (of the Fleck brand)’s technology can soften well water with various dissolved solids levels pumped from wells, springs, lakes or streams. They are eco-friendly softeners thanks to their ability to regenerate sodium using only water (reversing electrolysis).

Pros

• Proven Fleck WS48-56sxt10 control head with automatic bypass valve
• No iron pre-filter required;
• A high-capacity brine tank requires less maintenance;
• Overflow system protects floors from accidental spills;
• 100-percent polyglass tank offers superior corrosion resistance;

Cons

• Installation instructions need polishing;

 

 

The Whirlpool water softener is the perfect choice for homes with hard water. Hard water can leave your home with that soap scum look, and worse, it may even thwart your laundry from getting clean. The only thing that will fix hard water is a water softener, and the Whirlpool WHES30E is more than up to the task.

If you have a household of up to four people, then the Whirlpool whole house water softener system is a great option for you. This is really easy to set up and there’s no complicated maintenance or filter changing involved. Simply hook it up, add the salt, and hit the Auto button every few months. You can be assured of soft water that gives you great lathering in the shower, plush towels, soaps, and shampoos that foam without residue and by extending the life of your appliances.

The Whirlpool water softener uses “ion exchange technology” to produce soft, clear water. Purification is accomplished by replacing minerals with positive or negative ions. Technology is similar to what happens when you bathe in natural mineral waters. By choosing Whirlpool Ion Exchange Technology, you save money on soap and hot water!

This water softener is for the serious bargain hunter that doesn’t want to be bothered with top loading household water softeners. It is a state-of-the-art 30,000-grain system for small to average homes. Though, depending on your maximum water supply needs, it can supply soft water for most family needs. Its maximum flow capacity of 7.9 GPM.

At the maximum flow rate, there is a pressure drop of about 1.5 PSI. The flow rate to grain capacity goes up to 95 G/G (grains per gallon), providing a water hardener removal of 8 PPM. The heart of this system is our constant

When you choose the Whirlpool WHES30E, you’ll get to enjoy having softer water at an affordable price. It has the standard 1-year general warranty, 10-years for the brine tank, and 3-years for the electronics. This water softener removes up to 99% of the contaminants from your water, making it a healthier option than most brands out there. It also removes rust and limescale.

Pros

• Space-saving design
• Efficient performance
• Value of money
• Affordable
• Salt saving technology

Cons

• The backflush drain can leak if not installed properly
• The display is unclear

 

 

Abundant Water Flow Systems is a specialized water purification and softener manufacturer. Expertise in the field of water treatment has earned this company a solid reputation over the last 20-years. If you have a large home with plenty of showers, laundry, or faucets to fill, then the 64,000 grain Iron Pro 2 whole house water softener is an ideal solution. It has a really high flow rate and high-quality components.

Our 8000-grain tank capacity water softener is perfect for families and homes involved in water-intensive hobbies. This model is equipped with the digital Fleck 5600SXT control system, which monitors your home’s water usage to ensure you only use the amount you need.

The Fleck Water Softener is a slightly larger system than most home softeners and offers great capacity while maintaining the same high quality of filtration as its smaller counterparts. Featuring a solid-state electronic control panel, this (Iron Pro2)  softener will provide users with both easy use and maintenance. 

This water softener uses 64000-grain brine tanks and provides equally distinguished removal rates for sediment (8 ppm) and hardener (6 ppm). The design allows ease with installation. It comes with a bypass valve that has 1” full port fittings with an inline filter for soft water on demand. 

The water magic system eliminates those stains from your dishes and leaves you with a shiny finish to glassware as well as fewer clothes becoming stiff when washed in hard water because it has the ability to soften the water to more desirable levels. The water softening system is easy to install, making it simple and fast for DIY installation or you can hire a professional installer.

Pros

• Combined iron removal and water softening;
• Digital readout provides useful information;
• Programmable regeneration settings provide user convenience;
• 48-hour memory backup saves settings so they are not lost if power to the system is cut;
• Fine mesh resin for better performance;
• Double backwash for more efficient regeneration.

Cons

• The system is large, it needs a lot of space to install;
• The installation instructions can be difficult to follow;
• The combined water softener and iron filter system requires a relatively large financial layout (but is not as expensive as two separate systems).

 

 

The OTG4-DBLSOFT portable water softener will come as great news for campers and people living in apartments. It is also a wonderful option if you’re renting, it’s easy to set up and remove. Above all, this is probably the most accomplished portable water softener you’ll find.

The 360° water softener is the ideal solution for small households that want the benefit of softened water without having to pay out thousands for a large unit. The patented liquid valve technology inside the unit automatically adjusts itself to your needs, and at only 22 inches high, you can fit this little gem in even the tightest spaces.

This Water Boss softener is a small, compact water softener that is mainly used for being on the go. It’s a 32-pound machine, which has a carrying handle for easy transport. It does not take any electricity to run the machine. The water softener removes all calcium and magnesium from your water supply and it will also remove chlorine as well when you’re using it in RV Parks or any other spots where you have city water. The Water Boss is used to soften your water by removing scale build-up in your pipes and in appliances in your home as well.

The On the GO water softener is about to change the way that you think about portable water filtration. This unit requires no setup or installation and is extremely portable. Just hook up at your faucet, and enjoy cleaner, soft water in just minutes. The On the GO water softener features a rubberized storage case instead of a conventional tank, so you can use it as often as needed without worrying about having water in a large storage container somewhere on your property.

Pros

• Compact and portable with a stable base
• Uses common table salt for regeneration
• Has a 360° swivel head for easy connection of hoses
• Features a wide opening for pouring in the salt
• Has a relatively high capacity
• Easy to assemble and maintain, no tools required
• Water hardness test strips supplied with the system

Cons

• No sediment filter
• Need to disconnect from vehicle to regenerate
• No indicator to warn when regeneration is needed

 

 

Unlike other models on the market, the Pentair WS48-56SXT10 doesn’t just rely on the volume of resin to soften your water. Instead, it uses a combination of resin and electronic systems to create a much better system. On top of all that, it has a salt meter built into the resin tank so you never have to guess how much of either you may need for your family’s needs. The Pentair brand carries a lot of weight, with a large and loyal following. Making this an immensely popular water softener.

This unit will soften your water and be able to handle 1 to 4 bathrooms or 6 to 10 showers. If you have a larger family, you might want to go with the 48,000-grain package. You can easily schedule the system to use more soft water at night and then back off the softening capabilities during the day. 

For those who may have been turned off by other systems sold at this price point, many of those other systems had inconsistent flow rates that would produce minimal water softened. At this price point they were more of a gamble than anything.

The Fleck controller is known for its reliability and efficiency. Keep in mind that this requires a 120V power connection. The system has a 3.5 GPM water consumption rate and wastage is minimized using the sophisticated controller that measures your water consumption. It will only provide as much soft water as you actually need, based on your current consumption rate.

The Pentair WS48-56sxt10 water softener is a whole house system, and it is also the only system in this review that has a 10-year warranty on the tank. The term ‘whole house’ is a bit of a misnomer since the actual softening takes place in only one room. However, the main idea here is that softened water flows through all of your taps at once. Of course, you can install separate water softeners as well. This water softener also has a 5-year warranty on the Fleck 5600SE 8-stage digital controller.

Pros

• It will adjust itself at a higher or a lower level according to your water usage.
• Economical water softening.
• 5 years warranty speaks up for the durability of the product.
• Touch-based control panel, which is convenient to use.
• It can be installed super easily without any extra effort.
• Price Under 1000 dollars.

Cons

• The size of this water softener is a major turn-off for many people.
• It needs continuous replacement of salt pallets.
• Hard to find this Water Softener under $500.

 

 

The Aquasana EQ-1000 under sink water filter system is recommended for well water. It is one of the best purification systems available, because of the UV filtration stage which kills bacteria and other organisms that may be found in well water.

This system is perfect for homes that want to free their water from most contaminants and impurities while improving the lifespan of water fixtures and water lines. It also includes an element that conditions the water to improve the lifespan of your hot water heater.

Water softening and purification can now be done in your own home. The Aquasana EQ-1000-AST is a salt-free water softener that supports water filtration as well as conditioning. It has an anti-scale cartridge, which provides a 99% reduction in chlorine from 0.5 to 15 ppm, among other things such as lead and copper, etc. It also has the minerals calcium, magnesium, and potassium hydroxide (not the other metal).

The water softener can remove or lessen the effects of the substances and contaminants in the water. It can also filter out some microorganisms that may be in it. A whole house water filtration system deals with both the issues with high levels of total dissolved solids (such as calcium, magnesium, and certain heavy metals) and chlorine. The core units are placed under the sink for easy accessibility.

Aquasana Water Softeners remove contaminants like chlorine, fluorine, and herbicides. It even reduces cysts such as giardia and cryptosporidium. This results in the softest water available but without hard water minerals – creating a perfect balance of optimal health for you and your family. Aquasana is not a salt water softener, it’s water conditioning at its best.

The water softener prevents the adhesion of minerals in the pipes, while the result is still hard water, full of calcium and magnesium. The main advantage: you no longer need to worry about increasing your salt levels in the blood.

With the whole house water filter, you can now bring clean and healthy water into your home by preparing it with a system that removes up to 99% of the chlorine. Together with its advanced filtration technology, this water softener may also remove sediment and rust or even prevent limescale build-up. It also works as an iron filter and is anti-bacterial.

Pros

• Controls limescale without removing beneficial minerals
• The low total cost of ownership
• Salt-free descaling softening system creates no wastewater
• Makes well water biologically safe
• Anti-clog design preserves filter life

Cons

• High initial cost
• Tepid flow rate
• Maximum warranty requires professional installation

 

 

The Filtersmart Salt-Free Water Softener System has an anti-scale pre-filter that protects plumbing from scaling and sediment buildup. Filtersmart’s salt-free water softening system effectively removes calcium, magnesium, and iron sediments throughout your whole household’s water supply. You can actually feel the difference in the quality of your water with the Filtersmart Salt-Free Water Softener System.

Organic products are also less prone to leaving mineral streaks on your bathroom fixtures. If you have had this problem, Filtersmart has a solution for you. Our salt-free water softener is designed to keep water clean, while leaving it with the same amount of calcium and magnesium that originally came out of your pipes.

Filtersmart is a water softener that is compact, affordable, and highly functional. What really sets Filtersmart apart from its competitors is that it actually has an integrated filter for water filtration. Our system is very reliable; you can easily install it yourself in 2 hours or less and you will have access to fresh, crystal clear water every time you turn on your tap.

Filtersmart’s conditioner-purifier is the most convenient water-softening system we have ever seen. As opposed to the traditional salt-based systems, which require you to add salt on a set schedule, this system has two canisters right within its design. One canister holds a calcium and magnesium compound that automatically dissolves into the water supply when it needs replenishing. The second canister contains granular carbon, which works to purify the water as it passes through the filtering system.

Pros

• Offers double the benefits of water filtration and conditioning.
• Lifetime guarantee for the mineral tanks.
• Don’t add salt into the water.
• Uses the highest quality NSF-certified carbon filters.
• Requires less maintenance than a standard salt-based system.

Cons

• The pre-filter requires changing fairly regularly.
• Installation is quite complex and may require a plumber.
• The system doesn’t alter pH by removing calcium and magnesium from water, which some people may prefer.

 

 

Over many years, our Pelican Whole House Water Filter and Softener has gained recognition from multiple websites, with some people saying it is the greatest item they ever bought. Its status grew so much that we put it to the test and realized its many benefits. With thousands of happy customers out there now raving about it, we are proud to use the Pelican Whole-House Water Filter & Softener as our official water purifier.

If you are looking for a water softener that can remove natural hard minerals from your home’s water, then look no further. Pelican has taken this concern into consideration and created the best salt-free softener on the market today. It reduces harmful chemicals by 99%, reduces mineral build-up in appliances by 75%, and improves upon skin ailments when bathing. Pelican has thought of everything.

Our test showed chlorine in our tap water. It was there but it seemed to be at a smaller concentration than the average concentration of chlorine in most American cities. This seemed like a positive sign, though we couldn’t prove what individual role the filter played in reducing the concentration of chlorine in our test’s water.

The Pelican Water Conditioner makes even the hardest water into soft and silky skin-pleasing water. It is not a water softener, it is a water conditioner. It changes the electrical charges on the mineral ions to make them feel softer on your skin

Conditioning your water is actually beneficial. Since the minerals do not attach to the inside walls of water pipes, you will never have rusting and scaling issues. It translates to a longer lifespan for your water heaters, ice maker, dishwasher, and washing machine.

Pros

• Reasonable price
• Guaranteed to reduce chlorine + chloramine
• NSF Standard 42 certified for 96.6% chlorine removal
• Also filters a bunch of chemicals and heavy metals
• Greatly improves water taste and odor
• Clean water in your entire home
• Uses high-grade catalytic granular activated carbon + bacteriostatic KDF-55
• Very high filtration capacity

 

Cons

• Plastic instead of metal fittings
• Carbon media pre-soaking can be problematic

 

 

Lastly, we present you with The Aquios Jumbo, one of the brand’s newest water softener models perfect for the entire house. It has a point-of-entry design that eliminates the need for small, individual systems in different faucets and water appliances. With its large capacity of up to 9,024 gallons, this model ensures excellent absorbency for even the hardest water conditions. Its design is simple and easy to install.

The Siliphos technology of the Aquios Jumbo houses water softening units is patented. It prevents the adhesion of minerals on the inner surface of water pipes and fixtures by releasing refined colloidal silica that attaches to minerals for elimination. This keeps the mineral-free water inside your home fresh and clean.

As a saltless water softening system, you will not add salt to your dishwater. Moreover, all the beneficial minerals within freshwater will be retained before they make their way into the drain pipes. The health benefits of consuming such minerals are widely known and proven by research.

 Apart from health aspects, you will find that using a saltless water softening system is also advantageous when it comes to economic factors like not having to buy a tank full of salt every month and conditioning the system on a different schedule.

First and foremost, Aquios’ water softening product is designed for a compact space. There is already a filter built into the product. The quality of water is improved in that there is no hardness or chlorine smell. The compact design fits easily into a small space without interrupting other household activities.

Pros

• In one unit there is a filter and conditioner to save money and place.
• Eliminates 99% of chlorine taste and smell, sediments, rust, and iron.
• There is no excess salt in the water. So it is a great benefit for the people who are restricted to sodium diets.
• Drinking water contains healthy minerals like calcium and magnesium.
• Water will not take to the slippery feel of the salt softened water.
• The filter removes iron, dirt, or rust that is presented to the wall water.
• Resists to build up the scale from the hard water.
• The natural method is very friendly, and it does not scrapheap salt brine of the water system.
• The design of the head valve is very wonderful and does less breakage.

Cons

• The system only makes small particles of the pollutants and does not adhere to the appliance or pipes.
• It works only for the running water, not for the stagnant water.
• It is not suggested for the extreme hard water much more than 75 Grains per Gallon(GPG)

 

 

The WaterBoss Model 900 Whole House 36,400 Grain Water Softener is a programmable water softener for large families. While water softener systems can cost upwards of $1,000 or more depending on filtering capabilities and features, the WaterBoss 900 is a cost-effective exception. 

This water softener system is small and inexpensive, yet it can easily meet the water needs of a three- or four-person household. 

The WaterBoss system has a 36,400-grain capacity and can soften up to 90 grains per gallon while eliminating ferrous iron and silt by ten parts per million (ppm). The all-in-one, water softener system has a whole-house, built-in, self-cleaning dirt and sediment filter. 

It operates in a high-efficiency default mode that requires less water than other household water softeners. Checking the functionality and scheduled maintenance cycles is also made simple with an LCD screen. 

The WaterBoss softener machine has more than efficiency, though: its contained design and connected controls are all housed in a sleek small housing that could fit anywhere in the house. This model stands out for its superb build quality and small footprint. The unit is neutral in appearance, with softly rounded lines at the edges. With a seamless, durable design, it’s dedicated to delivering you healthy and youthful skin. 

The WaterBoss 900 water softeners treat water to remove deposits, smells, iron and lead, and other impurities that could harm your health! The built-in filter removes sediments and iron to get the purest water in your taps. It has a factory-installed bypass and a built-in safety shut-off system, making it easier to clean the water softener safely. 

For places where the water has a high iron concentration, the WaterBoss 900 offers a powerCleanTM option that you may use every six months to guarantee the water softener has a long service life. This system has a user-friendly digital control panel and a pre-programmed 6-step regeneration procedure. If the pre-programmed process and schedule don’t meet your needs, you can choose a more convenient time.

Furthermore, installing the WaterBoss system is a simple DIY undertaking that takes little to no time. You’ll need only a few hours and some basic plumbing knowledge. 

Also, the setup is extremely flexible and controllable, thanks to the built-in bypass valve. This sturdy appliance also comes with a detailed set of installation and maintenance instructions.

Pros

• Built-in self-cleaning filter
• Low water consumption
• Fast regeneration
• Easy operation and maintenance
• Small footprint
• Removes up to 90 grains of hardness per gallon
• A three-year limited warranty

Cons

• It may not work with chlorinated water

 

 

This water softener from Aquasure’s Harmony Series is one of the most popular, and for a good reason. It offers excellent value for money and outstanding performance. Its 48,000-grain capacity is perfect for houses with up to four bathrooms and five people, and its high-quality 8% resin is built to last. 

This model, in particular, is ideal for whole-house systems because it efficiently removes hardness and eliminates scale and spot buildup issues. It comes with an Aquatrol Advanced Digital On-Demand Meter Adjust Head, which allows you to manage and control the tank’s settings effortlessly.

The user-friendly digital flow meter is fully customizable. Three regeneration modes provide the most efficiency while giving you complete control over the system. It’s made entirely of heavy-duty materials and comes with a five-year warranty and a track record of trouble-free operation.

The feature that distinguishes the Harmony series from other great household water softeners is the ability to schedule regeneration. You may choose the optimal time of day for regeneration and prepare it for that time. Say you don’t want to schedule it. In that case, you can select the hand-free option, which allows the unit to run independently.

Another excellent feature of this water softener is its ability to handle water with a hardness of up to 90 GPG for almost a month without requiring regeneration. The credit for this long cycle length goes to its 48,000-grain capacity.

Additionally, the softener has a manual double backwash for even more efficient regeneration. The Aquasure Harmony Efficient Water Softener has three regeneration modes, all of which add to the efficiency of the device and provide you with complete control over the unit. 

This water softener features powerful components and has a robust design. If you have some DIY experience, you should be able to put this unit together in less than five minutes after unpacking it. However, the device weighs roughly 120 pounds, so you’ll need some assistance with lifting.

Furthermore, the corrosion-resistant fiberglass resin tank is exceptionally long-lasting. Aquasure looks after its clients with excellent after-sales support, and you may have anything repaired on your equipment under the manufacturer’s 5-year warranty.

Pros

• A lighted digital interface makes it easy to read
• High-quality water softening
• Perfect for households of 2-5 people
• A large salt tank means fewer refills
• Schedule regeneration cycles
• Comes with simple DIY installation instructions

Cons

• Bulky design

Briefly Explaining What a House Water Softener Is and Its Benefits

What is a Water Softener?

A water softener is a system that removes free ions from water. It is typically used in conjunction with other systems in areas with poor water quality and as stand-alone units for city dwellers with treated municipal water. A softening system will remove calcium, magnesium, iron, manganese, and other minerals from your water supply to improve the taste and ensure that you have safe drinking water.

Salt-free water softeners are slowly emerging onto the market and are poised to stay. Water conditioning systems remove minerals from the water, what’s left is pure water. It’s important not to fall for clever marketing that claims themselves as salt-free water softeners when they’re really just a conditioner. There are performance differences between the two so it’s important to educate yourself so you can make an informed decision on which one best fits your specific home needs.

 

How does a Water Softener Work?

These days, water softeners are getting more and more advanced. These systems use ion-exchange resin to “soften” the water from your faucet, removing minerals like calcium and magnesium so that you can enjoy smooth skin, shiny hair—and a host of other benefits. Models that use sodium as a regenerant are some of the most popular units today.

When the water softener is backwashed, it discharges a mixture of concentrated brine and softened water to the drain. Therefore, if this drainage line was connected to your plumbing drain, hard water would infiltrate into your home’s pipes. We recommend that you use a pump and plumbing with flexible hoses at the disposal site to prevent clogging by the brine solution.

Easily installed under the kitchen sink, or anywhere on the property you’d prefer, our water softening solutions are ready to change the way you look at life with fresh, soft water. These products use a revolutionary process that naturally dissolves minerals without needing any salt or chemicals to harden your water, ensuring that you’ll never need to worry about stains or buildup in your home’s pipes.

 

Water Softener Maintenance

The best water softeners come with a good warranty. As long as you are maintaining your water softener according to the manufacturer’s directions, and your unit is not more than a few years old, it is likely that you will never need the warranty. 

However, if you change the hardness of your water, you may need to adjust how often your regeneration cycles happen or how much salt or brine water you use during regeneration. If this happens, contact the manufacturer regarding the warranty and they will be able to help you update these settings.

One of the most important parts of a water softener is the resin or mineral tank. The tank will outlive just about every other part of the system, but eventually, it will need to be replaced. The Ovation Series replacement resin tank has been designed to support Fleck and models of water softeners, including those from Pentair and the American Water System.

A house water softener offers many perks. For starters, it helps protect your plumbing fixtures by preventing water from becoming saturated with minerals. This allows the pipes to last longer and can cut down on replacement costs.

 Pipes may stay clean as well because softened water is somewhat slippery. Certain types of solids are also less likely to form scale build-ups when in contact with a softener. All this has to be weighed against cost though, which is why it’s best to stick with name brands that provide good warranties or go with a third-party unit that uses products from the same manufacturer as the filter used.

The Benefits of a Whole House Water Softener

The main advantage of having a water softener installed inside your home is the amount of money you can save. Replacing appliances, windows, and other parts that are affected by hard water can cost a lot of money over time to repair. Having a water softener in your home allows you to get rid of that constant struggle and help lower future costs down the line.

A water softener is a good piece of equipment for anyone with hard water, which can wreak havoc on appliances, including ice makers, coffee makers, and washing machines. When you need to soften your water or filter it, Culligan has the equipment for you.

Soft water is good for so many things, and Valucraft’s softener systems will produce it for your whole house. Our different systems include under-mount, front-load and top-load, whole house types, and more. Use our resident tech specialists to help you select the right system to meet your needs. Affordable water softeners to keep your household happy and healthy.

Here are a few more benefits of using a water softener:

Softer Skin and Cleaner Hair 

Soft water can benefit your skin and hair while showering. With hard water, it’s more difficult to get your hair clean because soap doesn’t work as well and leaves a scum residue. Soft water lacks these minerals, resulting in a richer lather in houses with a water softener. 

The skin benefits of using a water softener go beyond soap lather. It can also help you cope with the negative consequences of hard water on your body, such as losing the natural oils in your hair and skin.

Cleaner Dishes

Indeed, it’s tough to clean dishes, but it’s all the more troublesome for those who live in a hard water region. Your glass and silverware will look foggy as soon as it dries, no matter how often you clean them or what detergents or soaps you use. 

A water softener manages the issue by eliminating the minerals before they can accumulate on your dishes. Also, since soft water completely dissolves detergents and soaps, your dishwashing routine produces more cleaning action and lather.

Softer and Cleaner-looking Clothes

Imagine what soft water can do for your clothes if it can do so much for your skin and hair! When was the last time you purchased a brand new, silky sweater and hoped it would be your new favorite? How did it turn out when you washed it? Chances are that your sweater lost much of its softness.

Guess what? It’s not the detergent you’re using. Since hard water doesn’t break down dirt very well in the washing machine, garments that come out of the dryer may feel stiffer than you remember. Synthetic materials may also produce more static than natural fabrics. 

Hard water can also leave a residue that soap can’t altogether remove, giving the impression that your clothing is still dirty. Soft water does not leave mineral buildup, so your clothes, hair, and skin will feel fresh and ‘healthy’ again. No more complaining about the lack of softness or cleaning them twice!

Removes Any Unpleasant Tastes From the Water 

Some homeowners may also have to deal with water that leaves an unpleasant taste in their mouth or makes their gums more sensitive due to excessive mineral content. Depending on your water source, that earthy taste might contain traces of everything from hard minerals to iron and other sediments.

A home water softener benefits you by purifying your drinking and cooking water so that no sulfur, iron, or magnesium buildup occurs that may result in acidic tastes, poor hygiene, and corrosion on fixtures. With a water softener, you may turn on the faucet and drink fresh, clean filtered water.

 

Different Types of Water Softeners

The most common type of water softener is the salt-based system. One of the more advanced types is a potassium chloride water softener that can soften up to 15 times as much water while reducing its amount of salt usage by up to 90 percent. Other variations include systems that use a sewn-bag filter, which removes the need for extra salt storage tanks and pumps. Again, it’s a good idea to carefully research your choices before making a selection.

Salt-based water softener

It comes with a mineral tank, brine tank, and control valve. One major benefit of this system is reliability, though the drawback is wastewater.

Salt-free water softener

This system is the ideal solution for anyone who wants all the benefits of a water softener, without the mess, maintenance and potential salt damage of a brine or resin process. This system’s chloromide process crystallizes minerals rather than removing them, and unlike traditional water softeners, doesn’t require electricity. It keeps your water clear and healthy at all times.

Magnetic water softeners 

Those are used to remove the hard minerals from your water. They do not soften your water but they replace the minerals with magnetism. This type makes an ideal choice if you live in a region where there is iron contamination in the water. This system will also work well when leaching or groundwater wells are nearby.

Purchase guide

Apart from describing what a certain product does, it is just not enough to convince someone that your product is worth buying. This section will be about what to consider before purchasing a Whole House Water Softener. There are a few things to watch out for, as we all know that everyone is just trying to sell you their product as quickly as possible, and you can’t blame them. Therefore may this section guide you through all the needs for deciding what softener fits your needs best!

How hard is your water?

There are lots of variables that will impact the level of hardness in your water. These can include where you live, what kind of pipes you have, and the level of minerals in your water source, among others. To ensure a sufficient amount of minerals are in your water softener, it’s important to do a little detective work to determine how much “hardness” there currently is, so you can get the best possible hard water treatment for your needs. The USGS maps below will help you figure out where they fall on the scale.

With the USGS as a guide, anything over 100 mg/L is considered hard water so if you want to know where you stand, use one of our water hardness test kits. This is particularly important if you have any plumbing fixtures made of brass or copper because as water hardness increases, more and more mineral deposits are likely to form on the fixture which can reduce the life of the fixture.

 

Consider pricing and quality

To work out the right water softener for you, you need to work out how long you want it to last. The lifespan of your water softener is one of the most important factors in deciding which type you need. Over time, minerals will build up in your water softener and block the system up – this could be after a year or many years afterward. 

If you only want a system that will last for a few months, there are some cheaper systems available – but if you want your system to last for a few years, then these types of systems won’t do the job. Other systems may seem more costly, but they’ll last you a lot longer and save you money in the long run.

The warranty period is an important factor when choosing a water softener system. A good warranty means a more reliable product. Choose a product with at least 5 years warranty on resin and components, and 10 years on the tank. A high-quality resin may have a higher upfront cost, but it will last you for many years to come.

Make sure you purchase the right sized system

A water softener can help to reduce the amount of limescale and mineral deposits that build up on your plumbing, leaving you with clear, healthy water. To find out what size a water softener system will be right for your home, estimate your water flow rate and get in touch with your local representative today to help find the perfect system.

A water softener system is perfect for homes that have hard water. However, they are sized for a certain number of users taking showers or flushing toilets simultaneously. But families don’t always stay the same size, so this excess water can quickly become wasted and turn into a sanitary issue that costs money in salt and chemicals.

Research what type of water softener &  system you need

The right water treatment system makes good water great. Water softeners and purification systems improve the taste and feel of your water, helping you drink more of it. By reducing chlorine levels, they can also help keep your skin and hair looking healthy. 

For better health, reduced water hardness for materials used in laundry and bathing, cleaner dishes and laundry, whole-home water filtration, and a softener system is a good choice if you have hard water problems.

The water at your home or property could be causing serious damage to both your skin and your household items. It’s time to consider purchasing a water system. There are just too many brands and types of water softeners, so it can be difficult to find the right one for you. You don’t want to get stuck with the wrong one, regardless of it working for a while. It is highly recommended that you investigate before buying; that way, you will know exactly what you’re getting into.

Certification 

Of course, not all home water softener systems are created equal. When shopping, look for NSF Standard 42 in whole-house water softeners. The NSF International and Water Quality Association are the two independent organizations that can certify a water softening unit.

While certification isn’t necessary by law, consumers have more confidence when a producer successfully certifies that a product removes iron and hard water minerals. Of course, this does not guarantee a flawless experience. 

Although neither of these certifications ensures performance, they indicate that the equipment has undergone industry-standard testing and that the manufacturer’s claims have been verified — a crucial step toward assuring that the unit you buy or lease will provide years of trouble-free service.

Features

Dig deep into the features and controls of a water softener before purchasing one. Skim through the menu settings, programming levels, and display options. You should also look at whether the water softener has automatic regeneration for convenience.

Water softeners have clocks or timers that automatically regenerate the water softeners at a predetermined time and day. The automatic regeneration procedure allows you to select when the machine is not in use, ensuring that your everyday tasks are not disrupted.

Upfront Cost 

The upfront costs of a whole house water filtration system and softener are significant considerations, but so are the operating and maintenance costs. Also, keep in mind that filter cartridges and softening media wear out at different rates. Some are also less expensive to replace than others.

Water softeners with a larger grain size are more expensive than those with smaller grain size. Remember to factor in the expense of wastewater during backwashes (3 gallons per minute, or 960–1080 gallons per month for a seven-day cycle). All of these costs can add up quickly.

The following are some of the essential aspects that influence the upfront and long-term operating costs of a water softener:

• Installation and maintenance: You may have to pay for professional installation or have your system topped up with salt by a technician.
• Pre-filter: Using a pre-filter is necessary to extend the life of your softener, but the replacement frequency will decide the long-term operating costs.
• Brand: A well-known brand might provide proven reliability, but it comes at a price. Top companies like Pelican, Aquasana, SpringWell, WaterBoss, and Fleck charge more for their products than lesser-known competitors.
• Single tank versus dual tank: While single-tank salt-based systems are less expensive than dual-tank systems, a dual water softener will provide solid performance even during regeneration.
• Regeneration cycle: If your system uses a time-based regeneration cycle, your long-term expenses may be higher since it may regenerate earlier, wasting more water and salt. When you use a softener with a demand-initiated regeneration cycle, you’ll save money because the appliance will only regenerate whenever it’s needed.

Have your water tested

Water filtration is an absolute necessity to ensure you get the best quality water and to enjoy leading a healthy and more sustainable lifestyle. Hard water contains minerals like calcium or iron, which can build up in your pipes over time. A carbon-based water softener system helps remove these minerals and is much more energy-efficient than adding additional chlorine to remove them. It’s important to get expert advice as to what system is right for you – so talking with a plumbing contractor won’t hurt.

Water Softener Installation 

Follow these instructions to install a water softener system all by yourself:

• Before installing your water softener, make sure you read all of the instructions that come with it.
• Turn off the water supply to the house and the water heater’s power.
• Turn on all exterior hoses and taps to drain the water lines.
• Place your water conditioner in a safe, dry, and level position that ensures it will remain secure in severe weather, such as floods or freezing. Most water softeners have two tanks that must be placed next to each other.
• Install an elbow fitting to allow water to flow from the pipe into the filter.
• To connect the elbow fitting to your system, use the compression fittings that come with the unit.
• Make sure that the entering water is attached to the inlet and the leaving water is connected to the outlet port.
• Connect the hose to the unit and secure it with a clamp. Check to see if it feeds into a drainage system.
• Connect the overflow tube to the salt or brine tank.
• Set your bypass valve to the bypass position and flush it with the required amount of water. 
• Adjust the valve to the backwash position after plugging in your appliance. Slowly open the valve, enabling water to flow through the pipes while releasing air. Wait until you observe a steady flow at the drain line (usually a few minutes) to open it completely. 
• Follow the manufacturer’s directions for flushing the resin bed of your water softening system.
• Fully open the water supply valve when a continuous stream of water appears at the drain.
• Run the conditioner through the entire backwash cycle when installing a water softener.
• Check for leaks in the system, including your soldering and nuts. To fix any leaks, re-solder or tighten the nuts.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a water softener strip minerals from my drinking water like a reverse osmosis system?

No, it does not, this softener reactor removes calcium and magnesium from your drinking water, but it removes a little iron too. It also adds some sodium, but that is minimal.

How long do the mineral tanks last in a water softening system?

The average lifespan of a residential tank-based water heater is approximately 15 to 20 years.

How often should I add water softener salt to my system?

It varies from product to product based on performances and other things, but mostly from about four to six weeks, one should add water softener salt.

How big a water softener do I need for a family of six?

The ideal size of your water softener will depend on the hardness of your home’s water. If it’s only around 5-10 GPG, a 32,000-grain water softener should be enough. However, you’ll need a 64,000-grain water softener if the water’s hardness is between 21 and 30 GPG. Contact the manufacturer to discuss your grain capacity needs for more guidance if needed.

Are water softeners expensive to run like a whole house filter?

Not really. Electricity for water softeners is pretty cheap, the only thing that costs in short term is salt, and that is pretty inexpensive as well

When does a softener resin need a replacement?

Softener resin is used up and needs to be replaced with new resin. The simple procedure is described here, with the aid of step-by-step photographs on a small hard water softener that contains a plastic resin tank. Through experience, we know that most softener resins and ion exchange resins last about twenty to twenty-five years.

What is limescale and how to remove it?

Limescale is a white, hard, sometimes chalky substance you find around taps, on shower screens, and sometimes inside your kettle. This can be the cause of the usage of hard water.

Hard water contains elements that can affect the cleaning effectiveness of a fabric washing machine.  In order to provide effective cleaning and the best results, our machines use a combination of mechanical and chemical processes. These are designed to overcome the adverse effects created by hard water.

Food-grade white vinegar comes in a range of strengths; the weaker varieties are best for cleaning purposes. Basic lemon juice is relatively weak, but the certain lime juice and pickling vinegar are even more acidic. Citric acid is used to remove deposits from stainless steel and porcelain baths, tiles, and sinks, preventing limescale from stacking.

 

Conclusion

A water softener is a device that works to solve the problem of hard water. For the home, hard water can lead to unsightly deposits, spots, and streaks on dishes, surfaces, and your body! Save yourself the trouble and invest in a water softener.

Install a water softener in your home and you’ll never be forced to endure hard water again. They radically reduce the amount of limescale in your water supply, and they’re easy to operate so you’ll get the maximum benefits every day, without any hassles.

Dear reader, thank you for reviewing this article, and hopefully, we’ve managed to help you decide which one is the best water softener for YOU and YOUR FAMILY! We’ve consulted ourselves with many companies and manufacturers before we said anything about each product. Each specific product has its own pros and cons, that’s why there is a lot of choices out there on the market. What are you waiting for? Go and buy yours today!