Best Water Softeners Reviews & Buying Guide 2023

Are you looking for one of the best water softeners out there? Well, we’ve compiled a list of more than 10+ best picks for softening your hard water in this article.

Are you worried about the superiority of the water in your house? Do you think the water you drink is clean? Alternatively, do you believe it is full of pollutants or too hard? If you answered yes to all of these questions, it is time to consider buying the best water softener for your house.

Best Water Softeners Reviews
Best Water Softeners Reviews

The machine can help you to make the water out of the tap softer for daily use whether you are using healthy water or not. As a result, you could do without to use in your home. You have come to the right place.

Most people are looking for the best water softeners. There are many types of water softeners available in the market. You can call water softeners the best choice whether you want to remove the harmful contaminants present in the water or soften the hard water.

We are here to help you with the best water softeners. It would be time-consuming to find a good water softener. However, once you find it – you’ll know all the benefits of the water softener. 

Furthermore, make sure to read the ultimate buying guide as well while you are here.

So here is my list of The Best Water Softeners In 2023 :

Table of Contents

Image Product Rating Price
Fleck 5600SXT 48,000 Grain Water Softener Digital SXT Metered Whole House System Fleck 5600SXT 48,000 Grain Water Softener Digital SXT Metered Whole House System
9.7

 

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Watts Water Quality/Condition M7002 Flow-Pur RV-Pro 10,000 Water Softener Watts Water Quality/Condition M7002 Flow-Pur RV-Pro 10,000 Water Softener
9.5

 

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Iron Pro 2 Combination water softener iron filter Fleck 5600SXT digital metered valve Iron Pro 2 Combination water softener iron filter Fleck 5600SXT digital metered valve.
9.1

 

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Eddy Electronic Water Descaler - Water Softener Alternative Eddy Electronic Water Descaler – Water Softener Alternative
8.8

 

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WaterBoss 365 36400 Grain Water Softener WaterBoss 365 36400 Grain Water Softener
8.6

 

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Whirlpool WHES30 30,000 Grain Water Softener Whirlpool WHES30 30,000 Grain Water Softener
8.2

 

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On The Go OTG4-DBLSOFT-Portable 16,000 Grain RV Water Softener On The Go OTG4-DBLSOFT-Portable 16,000 Grain RV Water Softener
8

 

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Aquasana Replacement Media for Simply Soft Salt Free Water Conditioner EQ-SS20 Aquasana Replacement Media for Simply Soft Salt-Free Water Conditioner EQ-SS20
7.7

 

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Morton System Saver 30,000 Grain Water Softener M30 Morton System Saver 30,000 Grain Water Softener M30
7.4

 

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Aquios Jumbo Salt Free Full House Water Softener and Filter System - New Model Aquios Jumbo Salt-Free Full House Water Softener and Filter System – New Model
7.2

 

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Whirlpool WHES40E 40,000 Grain Softener | Salt & Water Saving Technology | NSF Certified | Automatic Whole House Soft Water Regeneration, White

The Whirlpool WHES40E 40,000 Grain Softener would be perfect for a family of 6+ members. It can easily filter and remove up to 10 ppm of clear water. It has been certified by NSF and can remove various hard water symptoms and make it healthier and clearer. It will easily remove plumbing and faucet buildup, and spotting on dishes will also be removed once you start using this grain softener. 

Whirlpool WHES40E 40,000 Grain Softener | Salt & Water Saving Technology | NSF Certified | Automatic Whole House Soft Water Regeneration, White

The Whirlpool WHES40E 40,000 Grain Softener will automatically calculate and work how much water and salt are required per your regular usage. Hence it will result in significantly lower usage of both elements. You will receive the softener system, the bypass valve, an installation kit, and an instruction manual. 

Main Features of Whirlpool WHES40E 40,000 Grain Softener 

  • Ideal for big families
  • Removes up to10 ppm of clear water iron
  • NSF Certified
  • It automatically can have results related to the amounts of water and salt required.
  • 1-year full parts and labor warranty from the manufacturer.
Why Should You Buy It?
  • NSF Certified
  • No Spotting on Dishes
  • Removes Stains
  • Full 1-Year Warranty
  • Easy to Install
Why Not Buy
  • A Bit Expensive.

Aquasure Harmony Series 48,000 Grains Water Softener with High Efficiency Digital Metered Control Head (48,000 Grains)

The Aquasure Harmony Series 48,000 Grains Water Softener is an all-in-one water softener. It reduces the hardness of water and eliminates spot buildup, scale, and more. It has been rated to treat 48000 grains of hardness because it removes skin-damaging hard minerals. Iron, Magnesium, and many more harmful elements are removed with it. That will result in the elimination of issues such as skin irritation and more. 

Aquasure Harmony Series 48,000 Grains Water Softener with High Efficiency Digital Metered Control Head (48,000 Grains)

The system comes with Aquatrol Advanced Digital On-Demand Meter Control Head. Also, the manufacturer offers pre-filled premium-quality resin in it. We are also getting a digital display showing time delayed, metered, and manual double backwash. The Aquasure Harmony Series 48,000 Grains Water Softener is made with high-quality corrosion-resistant fiberglass with a polyethylene tank. It also has a durable bypass valve along with a 5-year manufacturer warranty. The flow rate is 12 gallons per minute and runs on 120 Volts.

Main Features of Aquasure Harmony Series 48,000 Grains Water Softener

  • The manufacturer offers three different models.
  • Treats 48,000 grains of hardness.
  • Comes with Aquatrol Advanced Digital On-Demand Meter Control Head
  • Digital Display is also given for our convenience.
Why Should You Buy It?
  • Eliminated Impurirites
  • Removes Hardness in Water
  • No Skin Irrigation will be there
  • Digital Display
  • Corrosion Resistant Fiber Glass
Why Not Buy
  • Not Really.

Fleck 5600SXT – Editor’s Pick

The Fleck 5600SXT is the best-rated water softener and has a 48,000-grain capacity. You do not have to renew it frequently with the massive size. Furthermore, it is a salt-based system; you can change it out with potassium if you do not like salty water.

Fleck 5600SXT 48,000 - best water softeners for hard water
Fleck 5600SXT 48,000 Grain Water Softener Digital SXT Metered Whole House System

The water softener comes with an electric system and regenerates automatically, saving you costs on salt and water expenses. If this is the first system you own to soften water, we recommend getting a professional to do the installation. If you have installed one before, this system is easy to mount, and you can find helpful videos online.

Another highlight of the system is the excellent customer service, always ready to help. The immense problem is the item does not come with in-depth instructions concerning the controller, timer, and programming. The component is best suited for big households; you will need a bag of salt per month.

If fewer members stay at your home, it is not worth buying. The sleck works with only meter-based regeneration and performs when it is needed. 

Main Features of Fleck 5600SXT Water Softener

  • The water softener has a digital, on-demand, metered regeneration system
  • Equipped with a paddle wheel meter
  • Comprise a PG 2.5T ten 54-inch and 14 x 34-inch square brine tank with safety float
  • You get a bypass valve with a one-inch male yoke connection
  • Treats up to 12 gallons per month with a peak 28 GPM flow rate and is ideal for up to six people to use
  • You get a touchpad control, and it has a capacity of 48,000 grain
  • It consists of a five-year warranty, and the tank has a ten-year warranty

Why Should You Buy It?

  • It regenerates on demand to save you power
  • It has a long use
  • Fantastic Warranty
  • The controls are user-friendly

Why Not Buy

  • The installation is complex, and you may need to hire a specialist to install the system.
  • Some minor leaks were found using the water softener

Watts Water Technologies M7002 – People’s Choice

Do you live in your RV? Then you do not need something as big as the Fleck and can opt for the M7002 instead. The water softeners are made for recreational vehicle use and come with lightweight construction. Furthermore, it is one of the highest-rated structures among portable models.

Watts Water Quality Condition - best water softener to buy in 2020
Watts Water Quality Condition M7002 Flow-Pur RV-Pro 10,000 Water Softener

The salt-based water softener weighs 9 pounds and stands 21 inches in height. You get quality, but it does not have frequent recharging, and you need to do everything manually. Compared to larger units, this one needs frequent recharging, but the soft water it produces is worth the while.

In addition, potassium can be substituted with salt and need the backflush, rinse, and many more. Henceforth it will be used for one or two people. The portable design makes the unit easy to set up in the RV and remove from the house.

You get test strips to test the water before and after the process.

Main Features of Watts Water M7002 – Best Water Softener For Home

  • Made with a fixed drain line flow restrictor and has custom-designed flow valves
  • To keep the tank secure, it comes with a cradled base
  • It has a high flow rate with a low-pressure drop of 4 gallons per minute
  • Works with table salt or potassium

Why Should You Buy It?

  • It does not use a lot of salt and water to regenerate
  • Fantastic performance and value for money
  • Easy to install and works well with water that has a high level of hardness

Why Not Buy

  • You need to do the regeneration manually
  • Problems with leaks

Fleck Iron Pro 2 – Best Water Softener of 2023

If you want a perfect flow of water in your home, you need to get the Iron Pro2 combination system which offers approximately 64,000 grains of hardness. Before using this softener, it needs to be recharged. 

 

Iron Pro 2 Combination - review of top rated water softeners on the market
Iron Pro 2 Combination water softener iron filter Fleck 5600SXT digital metered valve 64,000 grain, 64k for the whole house

You can get plumbing and fixtures without limescale buildup and work with a meter-based regeneration process. Depending on the water, everything will be possible. The system can save time and money, as there is no need to invest yourself in machines that can handle machines very well.

Furthermore, you get a bypass valve with a cone of plastic. The installation is a bit puzzling but worth the while.

Main Features of Iron Pro 2 – Top Rated Water Softener

  • The water softener comes with a filter to make the water softer and remove various particles
  • It comes with a digital control head and bypass valve structural tank
  • Treats up to 16 gallons per minute with the mesh resin
  • You get a five-year warranty on the control head
  • The tank has a ten-year warranty
  • It helps eliminate scale buildup and removes ferrous iron
  • Made as a meter-based regeneration water softener that works only when needed saving you money

Why Should You Buy It?

  • Fully Automated
  • Made for large households
  • Fantastic customer support
  • Excellent warranty on the whole system
  • It offers you a high water-softening capacity

Why Not Buy

  • Confusing installation instructions and best to call the professionals for help

Eddy Electronic – Best Water Descaler

If you do not have a significant water source and need an affordable water softener, the Eddy Water Descaler is the one. You can connect the electronic water softener with metal or plastic pipes. The no-salt system is ideal, as you do not need to spend large amounts of salt or potassium.

Eddy Electronic Water Descaler - best water softening system
Eddy Electronic Water Descaler – Water Softener Alternative

The device works with electromagnetic waves and creates a magnetic field around the main water supply. As the water makes its way through the magnetic field, it modifies the Limescale not to deposit itself in the pipes, faucets, or appliances. Furthermore, it does not alter the chemical properties of the water, and you still obtain the beneficial minerals the body needs.

The system is economical and ecological compared to the standard water softener. The installation process is simple, as you only need to join the pipes with the system. However, you must note that this is not a water-softening system.

Main Features of Eddy Electronic Water Descaler

  • Easy to install and comes with standard cables to use with 1.5-inch pipes
  • Works without using salt or potassium and emulates softened water while retaining healthy minerals
  • Offers a maintenance-free use up to and above 20 GPM
  • Year Warranty with Money Back Guarantee included

Why Should You Buy It?

  • It keeps the water composition as it leaves all the chemicals in the water
  • Prevents limescale buildup
  • Affordable as it does not use salt or potassium
  • Easy to install and works with metal and plastic pipes

Why Not Buy

  • Not made for users with harder-than-hard levels of water

On The Go Portable – Best Portable Water Softener

One another best option for a water softener you can use in your RV. A couple of sizes that produce as per your standard models. And it’s a benefit to using it at your home or apartment. Sixteen thousand units can handle up and suitable for large families. 

On The Go OTG4-DBLSOFT-Portable - best portable water softeners on the market
On The Go OTG4-DBLSOFT-Portable 16,000 Grain RV Water Softener

The regeneration time is 30 minutes and provides 1,600 gallons of softened water with the two tanks. For tight-fitting spaces, the manufacturer has made sure it has a wide mouth at the top for adding salt or potassium. You get a high flow rate that offers the correct water pressure.

At the top of the machine is a handle for carrying wherever you go. Even the resin is high quality and comes with a 360-degree swivel to make connections to the inlet hose more comfortable. It would be best if you had no extra tools with the installation; it works without electricity.

Furthermore, you get a backflush adapter, reverse connection, storage inlet/outlet caps, hi-flow shut-off valve, and hardness tests strip.

Main Features of On The Go OTG4-DBLSOFT Softener

  • You get up to 16,000 grains using the Double Standard Softener with Conditioner, one of the biggest RV water softeners.
  • Regenerates in less than 30-minutes with two boxes of salt and provides up to 1,600 gallons
  • Made with a carrying handle and, a large mouth opening for adding salt, it comprises a premium resin and has a 360-degree swivel for ease of installation.
  • It comes with all the hardware included.
  • Works without using power and has a high flow rate with a low-pressure drop

Why Should You Buy It?

  • The opening for adding potassium or salt is huge
  • Produces 40% more softened water
  • No power needed
  • You can use it in the home or RV with the compact design

Why Not Buy

  • Over-priced

Also, Read Other Articles On…

Morton System Saver – Water Guard

The M30 water softener works with Look Ahead Technology to give you softer water and keep your appliance working longer. The construction is compact, making it a space-friendly machine. Furthermore, you can utilize it in a business or the whole house.

Morton® System Saver® 30,000 Grain Water Softener M30
Morton® System Saver® 30,000 Grain Water Softener M30

Further, the machine only regenerates on the usage of water and salt needed saving you money. The unit can handle up to 30,000 grains and run for as long as eight hours. You get an easy installation kit with a deluxe regeneration button and a single disk rotary valve.

The system connects to ¾ -inch plumbing and comes with a bypass valve.

Main Features of Morton System Saver

  • It comes with a single tank that is 17 inches wide by 21 inches deep and 43 inches tall.
  • It provides you with a flow rate of 11 GPM.
  • You get everything you need to mount the system, which comes with a bypass valve.
  • You can use it as a whole-home system or standalone
  • Handles up to 30,000 grains
  • Works with Look Ahead Technology to save you money in the long run

Why Should You Buy It?

  • You do not need to use a lot of salt, and it saves on water as well
  • You can use it with potassium
  • Compact space-saving design

Why Not Buy

  • Expensive

Aquios Jumbo Water Softener

Here is one more salt-free water softener from Aquios, which presents you with a whole-house treatment system. With the unit, you can enjoy softer chemical and organic impurity-free water. The machine comprises polyphosphate to reduce scale deposits. Conversely, if you have harder than hard water, we recommend you look at a different system instead.

Aquios FS-234 Whole House Jumbo Water Filter Softener
Aquios FS-234 Whole House Jumbo Water Filter Softener

When you install a water filtration system, it will remove all kinds of contaminants. However, You need to take care of systems as well. Also, the cartridge should be replaced in 9 to 10 months. 

Furthermore, the systems are rated to provide 60,000 gallons of water and have a great warranty.

Main Features of Aquios FS-234

  • Made with a filtration and softening system
  • The filter cartridge removes heavy metals, chemicals, and impurities
  • The filtration system needs swapping after six months of use
  • It provides 60,000 gallons and does not impact the water flow

Why Should You Buy It?

  • Filters out contaminants and softens the water
  • Prevents limescale buildup
  • It saves you loads of money on buying bottled water
  • Simple to install and use

Why Not Buy

  • You may find the liquid has a milky color in the beginning if you use a salt-water softener at first.

Other Interesting Water Softeners

As you can see, we have selected some of the best water softeners, but there are others available you can look at as well:

iSpring Whole House Electronic Descaler

To solve your challenging water problems without using salt or chemicals, you can look at this model from iSpring. The device is made for areas with a hard water level between 10 – 19 grains and needs no plumbing to install. The unit is maintenance-free and helps extend the appliance’s life in the home.

iSpring ED2000 Whole House Electronic Descaler Water Conditioner, Alternative Water Softener
iSpring ED2000 Whole House Electronic Descaler Water Conditioner, Alternative Water Softener

The automated water conditioner leaves necessary minerals and averts limescale deposits. The straightforward design wraps the two cables around the main water pipe to form a coil. The oscillating electric field triggers the release of carbon dioxide. It naturally increases solubility, allowing unsaturated water to dissolve the scale deposits by removing them from the system.

Furthermore, it descales the whole water system to prevent further limescale buildup. Further, this best water softening system works well with tankless water heaters and requires a limited workspace.

Check Out Our Other Articles 

Yarna Electronic Water Softener

As with the previous electronic water softener, the Yarna works on the same principle to prevent limescale buildup. You need no filter cartridges, salt, or a specialist to install the unit.

YARNA Whole House Electronic Water Softener & Descaler - Removes up to 99% of Limescale
YARNA Whole House Electronic Water Softener & Descaler – Removes up to 99% of Limescale

You get the device, a power adapter, fixing material, and two induction coils included in the kit. The machine must connect to the main water supply and have power access. The added power adapter is 5ft long. You can fix the unit to the wall to keep it secure. Furthermore, you get a ten-year warranty included.

By now, you ought to have some great thoughts about which water softener to choose. Make sure to stay longer, as we have helpful tips and questions to read.

WaterBoss – Top-Rated Water Softener

Do you have a large household and need a water softener with a compact design? The WaterBoss is one of those models that fit into limited storage spaces. The unit is robust and provides up to a 90-grain-per-gallon capacity. Further, it reduces iron and stops particles larger than 20 microns.

WaterBoss 365 36400 - best water softener for higher efficiency
WaterBoss 365 36400 Grain Water Softener

The WaterBoss is one of the best residential water softeners you can buy now. As the device has a compact design, it regenerates quicker at 38 minutes using the 6 lbs salt setting. While it is not a large machine, it still offers a high softening capacity.

The unit measures 14 ¾ -inch wide and 18 ¾-inch in depth and stands 30 ¾ -inch tall. Another added benefit is the unbelievable three-year warranty included.

Main Features WaterBoss 365 36400 Water Softener

  • Compact to fit into tight spaces
  • Works silently throughout the day and softens up to 90 GPG
  • It helps lessen iron, filter out dirt, and other particles larger than 20 microns
  • Regenerates fast at 38-minutes using the 6 lbs salt setting
  • Three-year warranty on the product and electronics, and the media tank with outer cabinet has a ten-year warranty
  • By design estimates the quantity of salt needed to regenerate

Why Should You Buy It?

  • Fantastic Warranty
  • It fits into tight spots
  • Regenerates fast
  • It uses little salt with the automatic function

Why Not Buy

  • The plumbing on the unit is insecure, and debris & critters can enter

Whirlpool WHES30 – Best Performer

If you have four or more family, you need a reliable water softener such as the WHES30. With the machine, you can make your appliances last longer as it eliminates minerals from the water. The system only regenerates based on the hardness level and water you use.

Whirlpool WHES30 30,000 - best water softener for home use
Whirlpool WHES30 30,000 Grain Water Softener – Built in the USA – Salt Saving Technology – NSF Certified

Therefore, you can save on salt usage and water simultaneously, saving you money. Furthermore, the device comes with simple programming, including a low-salt indicator light. The equipment works well with city and well water and comes with a standard one-year warranty on the parts and labor.

Alternatively, it has a three-year electronics and a ten-year tank warranty. The system comes with an installation kit with a bypass valve and connects to a one-inch male pipe thread.

Main Features of Whirlpool WHES30 Water Softener

  • The Whirlpool WHES30 is NSF Certified and suitable to use in a household with up to four people.
  • Removes up to 8ppm ferrous minerals
  • The device mechanically calculates the salt and water to regenerate
  • It comes with a year warranty on the unit, three years on the electronics, and ten years on the tank

Why Should You Buy It?

  • Simple to install
  • Easy to operate
  • It saves you money on salt and water
  • You can use it with potassium
  • Suitable for a household with more than four people

Why Not Buy

  • Expensive

Aquasana SimplySoft – For Efficiency

Compared to other water softeners, the Aquasana is a salt-free unit that conditions the water without adding minerals. You can use it as a standalone or connect it to provide the house with softer water. The arrangements are best used in places where you have highly contaminated water. Furthermore, it comes with ultraviolet filtration to deal with bacteria as well.

Aquasana Replacement Media - best water softener media
Aquasana Replacement Media for Simply Soft Salt-Free Water Softener EQ-SS20

The downside is the machine only conditions the water but does not remove the hardness, and the use of the unit is up to six months. The system treats up to 50,000 gallons of water and enhances the taste of the water. On the other hand, it removes chlorine, heavy metals, and other impurities.

The installation process is straightforward and comfortable with the brass fittings and comes with an advanced pro tool kit. The main setback is the water softener is a bit costly.

Main Features of Aquasana Water Softener for Salt Water

  • Naturally conditions the water without adding salt
  • You can use it as a whole house system or a standalone appliance
  • It lasts six months or 50,000 gallons of water
  • The operating pressure is 20 psi – 100 psi
  • Include an ultraviolet filtration system to remove bacteria
  • Comprise a pro installation kit comprising brass fittings, sub-micron post filter, pre-filter, shut off valve and bend support

Why Should You Buy It?

  • More suitable to use for removing contaminants
  • Improvise the performance of appliances
  • Works well to remove scale formation
  • Simple to install

Why Not Buy

  • Expensive

Cuckoo Direct Flow Countertop Water System

If you are not worried about supplying the whole home with soft water, look at the Cuckoo water system. The device has an innate design with sophisticated features to filter most impurities into hard water. The casing comes with a pre-carbon filter for reducing heavy metals; the Nano Positive filter removes harmful substances.

Finally, the mineralizer adds all the vital nutrients into the water, making it healthier to drink.

Cuckoo CP-MN031 Direct Flow Countertop Water Filter System
Cuckoo CP-MN031 Direct Flow Countertop Water Filter System

The pre-carbon cartridge needs changing every four months, while the Nano one requires replacing once a year. Furthermore, it comes with an alarm to remind you when it is time to replace the filter. You always get access to clean water with direct flow, and changing the filters is a breeze.

The design is stylish, dense, and available in various shades to fit in with any kitchen décor. The mounting is simple, and the kit includes everything you need to start. You can attach it to a standard faucet with the smart sink adapter or place it under the counter.

So if you want a unit that fits perfectly on the kitchen counter, check out this model today!

Best Water Softeners of 2023 – Buyer’s Guide

Now that you have decided on the best water softener to use, here is how you can install it to make your task on hand simpler.

Installing the Water Softener

  • Make sure to read the instruction manual – this is the first thing you should do when opening the box, as one model differs from
  • The first step – shut the main water supply off and open all the faucets to drain the water, leaving you with a dry surface.
  • The second step is placing the unit on a dry surface and closing the tanks.
  • The third step – calculate the space between the reservoir bypass ports and your cold water line. Here you will need the exact length of copper tubing to connect it. Make sure the connections are fitted well to prevent leaks.
  • The fourth step – this next step depends on your brand, as the softener’s discharge tube to the head of the softener’s head differs for each model. Once implement this section, you need to fasten the overflow tube to the water conditioner reservoir. Both the overflow and discharge tube requires a connection to a drain.
  • The fifth step – now place the bypass valve at the top of the conditioner head valve and tighten the clamps to prevent leaks. Directly connect the bypass valve with the tubing to deliver the water.
  • The sixth step – connects the water softener to the waterline and makes sure all the connections leak-free.
  • The seventh step – turn the water on. If you have connected all the fittings with shark bite connectors, there should be no leaks. You are ready to use the device and have time to refer to the manual.

Everything You Want To Know About Water Softeners

Please keep reading to identify the theory behind using the water softener, as we have all the information right here. The crucial thing is to prevent the adverse side effects of using hard water, from brittle hair and coarse clothes to dry skin.

Here, you can find helpful tips on how the system works and which one is the best option for you to use. However, before showing you how to choose the best water softener, let us first find out what hard water is.

Hard Water – What is it?

Hard water comprises high quantities of minerals consisting of calcium and magnesium. Therefore, what causes the buildup of these minerals? When it rains, the water that falls is soft, but when it eventually makes its way to the home, it picks up debris along the way, making the water hard.

Hard water is favorable because it is laden with necessary minerals and has good taste. Alternatively, soft water has a saltier flavor making it unsuitable for drinking. Why do you want to soften the water? The dilemma is hard water leaves a buildup of Limescale, spots, and residue behind on appliances and fixtures.

Furthermore, it does not only cause harm to appliances but plumbing at the same time. The truth is that most US households’ water level has a concentration between 3.5 and 10.5 grains per gallon (also measured in parts per million.) Further, water plays a crucial role in your life as it keeps the body hydrated.

Another thing is you use it for hygiene purposes as well. On the other hand, hard water can have detrimental effects on your health as well. As it comprises indispensable elements such as calcium and magnesium, getting in too much of it produces severe side effects.

As your body is taking in many minerals, it can reduce the amalgamation of other elements. Getting in a large amount of magnesium can lead to diarrhea.

How Do You Test To Find Out If You Have Hard Water?

Before buying a water softener, we recommend you do a water test first. The best resolution is to get a test kit to tell you what pollutants are in the water. Alternatively, you can test using a plastic container and washing soap. Fill the bottle halfway with water and add six drops of the solvent.

Screw the cap on and give it a good shake before removing the lid. If there are loads of soapsuds present, the water is soft. However, the sea’s likeliness will be challenging if the water does not foam. Furthermore, you can use the DIY kit to get the correct hardness level.

These test kits will advise you on what contaminants are present to determine if you need a water purifier or softener.

How does Water Softener Work?

A water softener is an appliance that works with ion exchange to remove minerals making the water hard. The apparatus consists of two reservoirs, one for water and the other to hold the salt. One of the tanks is filled with resin beads that provide an opposite electrical charge to that of minerals (calcium and magnesium.)

When the water flows through the container, the hard minerals are exchanged with soft ones, known as ion exchange. The rudiments can include either potassium chloride or sodium. You need to add these minerals to the machine to regenerate regularly.

Which Water Softener Should You Buy?

You can find dissimilar water softener models available to buy and split into different categories as follow:

Do You Require a Portable or Standard Model?

Depending on your needs, you can find portable and standard models available. If you plan to take the device with you outdoors when camping, using a portable water filter is the best. These affordable containers come with filters you need to replace depending on your water usage.

However, a customary unit works well if you want to use it at home. You fit the water system’s apparatus and can even find a method to provide the whole house with water. The water softeners are a bit more expensive but work quickly to ensure you with soft water.

Do You Want an Electric or a Non-Electric Model?

Depending on where you plan to use the device, you can get it in electric and non-electric designs. However, evaluated to one that does not work with power, the electric one can track the water to manage the regeneration. Furthermore, the filters last longer as well. On the other hand, the electronic version is smaller and fits with no trouble in tight spaces. The downside with the electric one is that it reduces limescale buildup but does not eliminate it.

Do you need a single or twin tank?

With a single tank, you only get soft water when needed, while a twin one offers you softened water all day. When using a twofold container, you need to use block salt compared to the single one that works with coarse salt or tablet. For low maintenance, the unique reservoir system is the best. The structure comes with fewer parts compared to one with two tanks.

The Salt-Based Water Softening System

Using this type of water softener is popular amongst most users, and you can also find specific models to use in an RV. The system uses sodium chloride to replace hard minerals from the water source. Typically, the device comes with two tanks, one for storing resin and the other to stock up the salt, known as the brine reservoir. Furthermore, it comes with a control system and connects to the main water supply controlled by a valve.

Once the water enters the reservoir, it encounters the beads and causes a negative electrical charge to attract the minerals and release sodium ions. The softened waters are pumped back through the cold water line when the water goes through the cycle. However, you need to occasionally clean or renew the resin, and the system does a backwash or reloads automatically.

Further, if the system does not have the auto function, you will need to do it manually. Alternatively, this water softener will eliminate limescale buildup and get quick results. The downside is that it pumps salt back into the wat while it catches the minerals.

The Salt-Free Water Softener

If you are concerned about high salt levels with the salt-based system, you can use the salt-free one instead. Instead of salt, you use potassium, a natural substance. All you do is substitute the salt in the tank with potassium and work the same way as the salt. You can find the system up to provide the whole house with soft water and a healthier solution. Potassium chlorine is costly, and the water has a distinctive taste.

While these are some traits you need to consider before purchasing a water softener; there are other features as well:

  • Do you need a water softener to use in the whole house?
  • Do you only want a softener to filter water provided to the faucet?
  • Do you want a portable softener?
  • Consider how much the filters cost to replace.
  • Further, you must decide whether you want a timed, metered, or volume-controlled one.
  • Always check that you get some form of warranty on the product.

What Water Softener Size Do You Need?

Before you buy a water softener, you need to determine the water’s hardness to get the right size. As mentioned before, a test kit is the best way to determine the water’s hardness. However, other forms are also available by sending the water to labor using a colorimeter instead.

Further, it would be best to determine how much water you use to get an accurate size. You can find quite a few water-calculating tools available online; however, none are made for using a water softener. The best solution is to look at your water bill, take the figure consumed in the month, and divide it by the number of days.

Alternatively, you can multiply the number of household members by 75 gallons to provide an average consumption. Now that you have all the variables, you need to work out the number of water grains required to remove per week. You can do this by multiplying the daily water usage with the water hardens to provide you with the daily softening needs.

If your water use is 200 gallons and the hardness is 1.4, your daily softening requirement is 2,800. You will need to remove up to 19,600 grains every week. Now that you have the necessary information, you can decide on a water softener’s capacity to buy.

Manufacturers advertise the number of grains the unit can recharge each week, ranging from one model to another. In most cases, the capability is 16,000 to 64,000.

Common Questions Regarding Water Softening Systems

What should you check if the water softener is not working correctly?

You need to look first to see if there is any problem with the bypass valve. The water system fixture will keep help you maintain the water flow. Hence you can make it indeed open. Your second step would be to check whether it works with electricity. The remaining problems will be the brine tanks and the need for enough salt to regenerate. Alternatively, you can do a manual regeneration cycle.

Another significant factor that can cause the system not to work correctly is blockages. The accumulation of salt deposits causes these obstructions. They obstruct the lines and stop the water from flowing through, and you can solve the problem by tapping the buildup and removing it with a scoop.

Other failures:

  • Sodium deposits in the brine tank became like a hard crust and were solved by breaking the crust and loosening the buildup for removal.
  • If the system fails to start up, it can be a motor problem, or you get a user error, and the best solution is to read your manual to solve the problem.
  • Resin beads can break, and you notice small particles floating in the water. Here you need to clean out the system and replace them.

How often should you add salt?

The best answer depends on the brine tank’s size, the water hardness level, the number of people in the home, and your average water consumption. The same is relevant to how much salt you need in the brine tank, but it should usually be a quarter full. For optimum efficiency, the salt needs to be below 6 inches from the top of the tank.

What is the difference between a water filtration system and a softener?

The water softener eradicates minerals in hard water and works with tiny beads coated with salt or potassium. The crystals attach to the beads, releasing salts into the water. Other systems make use of magnetic fields and chelation agents. While the latter does not remove water hardness, they help keep your plumbing and fixture lasting longer.

You can buy a water filtration system in different sizes to entrap contaminants. While specific models only catch large particles, others also eliminate smaller ones. However, if you want the best of both, you can buy a combined one comprising the water filter and softener.

It is certain that so many people still do not know about the difference between a water filtration system and a softener. But we are confident that now, you will have a clear idea of both systems. It will now be possible for you to distinguish and know what a water filtration system is and how a water softener works.

Does a Reverse Osmosis System make the water softer?

With an RO system, you get loads of benefits, as the water tastes better and is more environmentally friendly as it works without chemicals. Furthermore, it makes for one of the best water softeners, as most particles cannot pass through the system. The biggest problem is that only 15% of the water reaches your tap as the rest is discarded into the drain with the removed particles making it inefficient.

What is regeneration?

Regeneration occurs when the water softener removes calcium and magnesium, and a salt-water solution washes the resin to keep the filter clean for months.

When do you need to replace the resin?

When the resin swells from too much exposure to chlorine, this typically happens after ten years of use. If the resin fragments block the tap or you notice resin particles in the water, it is time to replace it. Lastly, you see algae growing on the resin bed.

What type of salt can you use?

Prevent using dicing or table salt, and choose one that dissolves quickly. Doing this helps the system flush the salt away quicker and prevents a buildup.

Does the RV water softener use a lot of salt?

Yes, it does, and it depends on the system’s capacity. Always have the salt consistently and use it according to your model.

Is potassium cheaper than using salt?

No, it is an excellent alternative but not cheaper. Further, it can melt away quickly when wet, so you will need more substance for the regeneration process. When using potassium, you must fill the brine tank halfway.

How do you maintain the water softener?

Each model needs other maintenance, and the best is to read the instructions. You will need to give the tank regular upholding to keep it in tip-top condition.

Our Verdict on Best Water Softeners on the market

We hope our water softener review list has taught you something about which is the best one for you to use. Always buy based on your budget, needs, and preferences, not what others feel is best. Look at your capacity depending on how many people are in the home.

Further, look at the weight and features offered and what benefits they hold for you. Whether you need a portable or home water softener, we hope you find one with us. Most of the units help prevent scale buildup from prolonging the use of appliances.

While others can do more than soften water as they also remove harmful contaminants in the process. The fantastic thing is that each one offers many benefits, from reducing hardness to providing healthy drinking water. Furthermore, a standout for us is the Fleck 5600SXT.

The machine has a great set of features with fantastic performance. The price is attractive, and it is one of the best water softeners sold today. However, if you want an all-in-one unit capable of softening water and cleaning it simultaneously, nothing compares to the Aquios.

You can use it effectively to filter the water in your house while softening it for cleaning at the same time. Alternatively, you can find one to use while on the go, such as the RV water softeners on the list. If you need more choices than the ones reviewed, look at the individual reviews here.

No matter which water softener you choose, we are confident you will benefit from using the system for years. We hope our list of the best water softeners is helpful to you. Now that you have all the essential information about water softeners, you can choose the best suitable one. You must go through our list of water softeners and select the best one to purchase.

Do not forget in the comments which water softener you think is perfect to use at home. Stay Healthy, Stay Safe!!

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