Table of Contents
Best Water Softener Consumer Reports, Ratings, Reviews, Tips, and Guides in 2022-2023
Are you in the market for a water softener? If so, you may be wondering which one is the best. Consumer Reports has released its list of the top water softeners for 2018, and there are some great options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for an affordable model or one that is top of the line, CR has you covered. Keep reading to learn more about the best water softeners on the market today.
Top 10 Best Water Softener to Buy:
Below is the list of top 10 Best Water Softener that you can have a look at and buy. Check one by one carefully before purchasing.
*Note: Score is based on our AI score (Editor’s choice and rating)
1. Whole House Water Softener System – Fleck 5600sxt Digital Meter
Whole House Water Softener System - Fleck 5600sxt Digital Meter with 64,000 Grain - includes bypass valve & brine tank with safety float
Features
- Best quality Fleck 5600sxt easy to use, reliable
- 64k, 64,000 grain capacity 2 cu. ft. high capacity resin
- Comes with bypass valve
- May ship in Almond or Black, if you have preference let us know
- brine tank with safety float
This easy-to-use, reliable system is perfect for homes with hard water. With its 64k grain capacity and high-capacity resin, the Fleck 5600sxt will make your water softer and easier on your skin and hair. Plus, it comes with a bypass valve and brine tank with safety float.
2. Fleck 5600 SXT Meter Demand Water Softener
Fleck 5600 SXT Meter Demand Water Softener Grain Capacity 10% Commercial Grade Cation Resin (64,000, Black)
Features
- Upgraded 10 Percent cross linked water softener resin
- Fleck 5600 SXT On Demand Digital Metered Water Softener
- Black USA Mineral tank shipped loaded with the resin in it already and a USA Brine Tank with safety float
- Includes free 1 inch noryl plastic bypass
- USA Made We email you DIY VIDEO instructions for installation programming
This system will remove impurities and hardness from your water, making it softer and more pleasant to use. The Fleck 5600 SXT comes with an upgraded 10 percent cross linked water softener resin, which is more effective at removing impurities than standard resins. The digital meter on the unit allows you to monitor your water usage and set the timer for when the unit should regenerate. This system also includes a free 1 inch noryl plastic bypass, which makes installation and programming easier. The Fleck 5600 SXT is made in the USA and backed by a full warranty.
3. Whirlpool WHES40E 40,000 Grain Softener
Whirlpool WHES40E 40,000 Grain Softener | Salt & Water Saving Technology | NSF Certified | Automatic Whole House Soft Water Regeneration, White
$638.99 in stock
Features
- Whirlpool WHES40E water softener is ideal for households of 1-6 plus people and removes up to 10 ppm of clear water (ferrous) iron
- NSF certified to reduce hard water symptoms such as embarrassing stains, build up on your Plumbing and Faucets and spotting on dishes
- Whirlpool water softeners automatically Calculate how much salt and water is required to regenerate and only uses what is necessary, resulting in a significant reduction in salt and water usage
- Full 1-year parts and labor . The system can be extended to 2 years when you buy 3 bottles of Whirlpool WHEWSC water softener cleanser (sold separately)
- Dimensions: 19" D x 18" W x 47 7/8" H
This amazing system can remove up to 10 ppm of clear water (ferrous) iron, making it perfect for households of 1-6 people. Plus, it’s NSF certified to reduce hard water symptoms like embarrassing stains, build-up on plumbing and fixtures, and spotting on dishes.
Best of all, the Whirlpool water softener automatically calculates how much salt and water is required to regenerate and only uses what is necessary, resulting in a significant reduction in salt and water usage. And if that wasn’t enough, the system comes with a full 1-year parts and labor warranty. For an even longer warranty, just purchase 3 bottles of Whirlpool WHEWSC water softener cleanser (sold separately).
4. Whirlpool WHESFC Pro Series
Whirlpool WHESFC Pro Series – Softener/Whole Home Filter Hybrid, Gray
$680.38 in stock
Features
- Save Money With A 2-in-1 System: Remove hard water minerals and harmful contaminants for families of 1-to-5 with one single-tank system instead of buying 2 separate systems.
- Superior Hardness Removal: This hybrid water softener/filter has a 31, 000 grain capacity, an above average hardness removal rating of 120 grains per gallon, and an iron removal rating of 3 ppm which helps reduce reddish-brown stains on drains and water using appliances.
- Water Contaminant Reduction: This whole home filtration system reduces sediment, chlorine taste, and odor from the water used throughout your entire home.
- Efficiently Use Salt: The WHESFC is a smart water softener, meaning it uses demand-initiated regeneration technology to produce soft water as your home needs it, reducing salt costs over the life of the system.
- Designed, engineered and assembled in the USA. Questions Call the Whirlpool helpline
The Whirlpool WHESFC Pro Series is a 2-in-1 system that removes hard water minerals and harmful contaminants for families of 1-to-5. This hybrid water softener/filter has a 31, 000 grain capacity and an above average hardness removal rating of 120 grains per gallon. It also has an iron removal rating of 3 ppm, which helps reduce reddish-brown stains on drains and water using appliances.
In addition, this whole home filtration system reduces sediment, chlorine taste, and odor from the water used throughout your entire home. Plus, the WHESFC is a smart water softener, meaning it uses demand-initiated regeneration technology to produce soft water as your home needs it, reducing salt costs over time.
5. Aquasure Whole House Water Softener
Aquasure Whole House Water Softener/Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filter Bundle (48,000 Grains)
Features
- Perfect for homes with 3 to 4 bathrooms and up to 4 family members, who desires softened water and clean, pure drinking water for the whole family.
- Rated to treat 48,000 grains of hardness by removing skin damaging hard minerals like iron and magnesium that clog up the skin pore and cause irritation.
- Exceptional performance & high efficient Aquatrol control head and Aquasure reverse osmosis membrane help save water and reduce overall maintenance cost.
- Constructed of high strength, premium-quality materials with built-in safety features that ensure your home is protected even during system downtime.
- Up to 5-years manufacturer warranty with lifetime tech support for the life of the system.
This top-rated water softener is perfect for homes with 3 to 4 bathrooms and up to 4 family members. It can remove skin-damaging hard minerals like iron and magnesium, leaving you with softer, smoother skin. The Aquatrol control head and Aquasure reverse osmosis membrane are both highly efficient, helping you save water and reduce overall maintenance costs. The water softener is also constructed of high strength, premium-quality materials with built-in safety features, so you can rest assured that your home is protected. Best of all, it comes with a 5-year manufacturer warranty and lifetime tech support.
6. Aquasure Water Softener – AS-HS48SCP
Aquasure Water Softener w/Aquatrol Digital Head and 10" Sediment/GAC/Zinc Triple Purpose Whole House Water Filter (48,000 Grains)
Features
- Perfect for homes with 3 to 4 bathrooms and up to 5 family members, who desires softened water and clean, chemical-free water for the whole family.
- Reduces water bill by removing particles and chemicals at the water source and prolong the life of household appliances.
- Rated to treat 48,000 grains of hardness by removing skin damaging hard minerals like iron and magnesium that clog up the skin pore and cause irritation.
- Exceptional performance & high efficient Aquatrol control head and high capacity Sediment/GAC pre-filter help save water and reduce overall maintenance cost.
- Constructed of high strength, premium-quality materials with easy to install quick connection make it an ideal system for any home.
The Aquasure Water Softener – AS-HS48SCP is perfect for homes with 3-4 bathrooms and up to 5 family members. It effectively reduces water hardness by removing particles and chemicals at the source, prolonging the life of your household appliances in the process. This high-performance water softener is rated to treat 48,000 grains of hardness, making it ideal for families who want to enjoy softer water without worrying about skin irritation or clogged pores.
Constructed of premium-quality materials with easy-to-install quick connections, the Aquasure Water Softener is a great choice for any home. Its high-efficiency Aquatrol control head and Sediment/GAC pre-filter help save water and reduce overall maintenance costs.
7. Aquasure Harmony Series – B0855MSHTH
Aquasure Harmony Series 48,000 Grain Water Softener with Fine Mesh Resin For Iron Removal and Pleated Sediment Pre-filter (48,000 Grain)
Features
- Perfect for homes with 3 to 4 bathrooms and up to 5 family members, who desires softened water and clean, chemical-free water for the whole family.
- Reduces large particles such as sand, dirt, sediment and iron rust at the water source and prolong the life of household appliances and water softener.
- Rated to treat 48,000 grains of hardness and up to 10 ppm of iron by removing skin damaging hard minerals like iron and magnesium that clog up the skin pore and cause irritation.
- Exceptional performance & high efficient Aquatrol control head and high capacity Sediment/GAC pre-filter help save water and reduce overall maintenance cost.
- Constructed of high strength, premium-quality materials with easy to install quick connection make it an ideal system for any home.
This powerful system is perfect for homes with three to four bathrooms, and can reduce large particles like sand, dirt, sediment and iron rust at the water source. It’s also rated to treat 48,000 grains of hardness and up to 10 ppm of iron, making it an ideal choice for families who want clean, chemical-free water. The Aquatrol control head is exceptionally high performing and efficient, while the Sediment/GAC pre-filter helps save water and reduce overall maintenance costs.
8. Aquasure Harmony Series – B07F175C2R
Aquasure Harmony Series 48,000 Grains Water Softener with High Efficiency Digital Metered Control Head (48,000 Grains)
Features
- 【 PERFECTLY DESIGNED FOR 3-4 BATHROOMS 】The Aquasure Harmony Series is the professional grade water softener that delivers ultra-softened water to every outlet throughout your entire home.
- 【 PROTECTS YOUR APPLIANCES 】Reduces water hardness and eliminates scale buildup while preventing damage to your plumbing and prolonging the lifespan of household appliances such as washing machine, dishwasher, water heater, etc.
- 【 CLEANER HOME WATER 】Rated to treat 48,000 grains of hardness by removing skin damaging hard minerals like calcium and magnesium that clog up the skin pore and causes irritation.
- 【 AUTOMATIC DIGITAL METERED CONTROL HEAD 】Comes with a fully programmable backlit digital display which allows you to easily customize your auto-flush intervals depending on your incoming water quality and water usage. Also allows for easy monitoring and hassle-free maintenance.
- 【 PREMIUM QUALITY 】Every Aquasure Water Softener is constructed with a high-strength, corrosion-resistant, fiberglass-lined polyethylene tank, durable bypass valve, and prefilled premium-grade resin. Besides the 30-day money-back, Aquasure stands behind its products by providing 5-year extended manufacturer warranty and life-time free US based tech support when you activate your product online within 60 days.
Aquasure Harmony Series – B07F175C2R is a state of the art water softening system that will help to improve the quality of your home’s water. This system has a 48,000 grain capacity and is designed to remove hardness from the water and eliminate scale buildup. It also features an Aquatrol Advanced Digital On-Demand Meter Control Head, in and out bypass, 1″ NPT Male Adapter, and pre-filled premium quality resin.
This system is also featured with time delayed, metered and manual double backwash for optimum regeneration, cleaning, and performance. The Aquasure Harmony Series – B07F175C2R comes with a 5 year manufacturers warranty and is constructed of high strength corrosion resistant fiberglass lined polyethylene tank, durable bypass valve and prefilled premium grade resin.
9. EcoPure EP31 31,000 Grain Water Softener
EcoPure EP31 31,000 Grain Water Softener | NSF Certified | Salt & Water Saving Autosense Technology for Whole House Soft Water Regeneration
Features
- SALT SAVING TECHNOLOGY: Exclusive Autosense Technology calculates how much salt and water is required to regenerate the system and only uses what is necessary, resulting in a significant reduction in salt and water usage.
- CERTIFIED HARD WATER REDUCTION: NSF-certified to reduce hard water symptoms such as embarrassing stains, buildup on your plumbing and faucets, spotting on dishes, and helps your water using appliances last longer and operate more efficiently.
- EASY SETUP & MAINTENANCE: Intuitive programming controls, low salt indicator light and compact single tank design provide easy softening solution.
- PERFECT FOR URBAN AND RURAL AREAS: This whole home softening system is designed to be used with both city and private well water sources.
The EcoPure EP31 31,000 Grain Water Softener is a great solution! Featuring exclusive Autosense Technology that calculates how much salt and water is required to regenerate the system, this softener can significantly reduce salt and water usage. It’s also NSF-certified to reduce hard water symptoms like embarrassing stains, buildup on plumbing and fixtures, and spotting on dishes. Plus, the easy setup and maintenance make it a breeze to use.
10. GE Water Softener System
GE Water Softener System | 30,400 Grain | Reduce Hard Mineral Levels at Water Source | Reduce Salt Consumption | Improve Water Quality for Drinking, Laundry, Dishwashing & More | Gray
3 used from $450.47
Features
- Electronic controls - Easy to use up-front electronic controls with status light indicator
- Grain capacity - 30,400
- GE exclusive days to empty - Makes sure you never have to guess when to refill the salt tank
- Water usage - Uses up to 20% less water (based on internal analysis verses GE water softeners manufactured prior to 2009)
- Plumbing connections - Plumbing connection up to 1"
This softener uses electronic controls and has an indicator light to let you know when it’s working. It also has a capacity of 30,400 grains, so you won’t have to worry about refilling it often. Plus, it uses up to 20% less water than other models, so you can save on your utility bills. And it’s easy to install, with plumbing connections up to 1″.
What is Water Softener?
A water softener is a device that is used to remove minerals from hard water. Hard water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium, which can cause a number of problems in your home. These minerals can build up in your pipes and fixtures, causing them to become clogged. They can also cause soap scum to form on your shower doors and sinks. A water softener will remove these minerals from your water, leaving you with softer water that is easier on your plumbing and fixtures.
Types of Water Softeners
There are two main types of water softeners:
1.Salt-based:
A salt-based water softener uses sodium to remove minerals from hard water. This type of softener is the most common and is typically the most affordable.
2.Salt-free:
A salt-free water softener does not use sodium to remove minerals from hard water. Instead, it uses a process called ion exchange to remove minerals. This type of softener is less common but is growing in popularity due to the fact that it does not add salt to your water.
Factors to Consider Before Buying water softener?
Size
The first factor you need to consider before buying a water softener is the size of your home. The size of your home will determine the size of the unit you need. If you have a small home, you can probably get away with a smaller unit. However, if you have a large home, you may need a larger unit.
Water Hardness
Another factor to consider is the hardness of your water. The harder your water is, the more minerals it contains. As a result, you will need a larger unit to remove all of the minerals. If you’re not sure how hard your water is, you can contact your local water utility company to find out.
Budget
You need to consider your budget when buying a water softener. Water softeners can be expensive, so you need to make sure you can afford the unit you want. There are a variety of different units on the market, so you should be able to find one that fits your budget.
Brand
There are many different brands of water softeners on the market. You need to research each brand to find one that you can trust. Read online reviews and compare prices to find the best deal.
Type of Resin
The type of resin is another important factor to consider when buying a water softener. There are two types of resin: cationic and anionic. Cationic resin is more effective at removing hard water minerals. Anionic resin is more effective at removing soap scum.
You need to decide which type of resin is best for your needs. If you have hard water and soap scum, you may want to choose a unit that has both types of resin.
Unit Maintenance
Water softeners require regular maintenance. You need to add salt to the unit on a regular basis. You also need to clean the unit every few months to remove any build-up of minerals.
Material
The material of the water softener is also important to consider. Water softeners are typically made from plastic, metal, or fiberglass. Plastic units are the most affordable, but they’re not as durable as metal or fiberglass units. Metal and fiberglass units are more expensive, but they’re more durable and last longer.
Warranty
When buying a water softener, you should always look for a unit that comes with a warranty. This will protect you in case the unit breaks down. Most units come with a one-year warranty. However, some companies offer extended warranties.
Customer Service
You should always buy a water softener from a company that offers excellent customer service. This way, if you have any problems with the unit, you can contact the company and they will help you resolve the issue.
How We Tested?
Consumer Reports tests water softeners in the lab by running hard water through each model. We test for two things: how well the softener removes minerals and how much salt the softener uses. We also look at how easy the softener is to use, including whether or not it needs regular cleaning. Finally, we compare the price of each model to help you find the best value for your money.
How Does Water Softeners Work?
Water softeners work by running hard water through a device called an ion exchange resin. This resin is covered in sodium ions, which attract and bind to the minerals in hard water. This process removes the minerals from the water, leaving you with softer water.
What are the components of a water softener?
1. The mineral tank :This is the tank that contains the ion exchange resin.
2. The brine tank : This is the tank that stores the salt used to regenerate the mineral tank.
3. The control valve : This is the device that controls how often the water softener regenerates.
4. The drain line : This is the pipe that drains the brine water used to regenerate the mineral tank.
5. The fresh water supply : This is the pipe that brings fresh water into the water softener.
6. The discharge pipe : This is the pipe that carries softened water out of the water softener.
Is soft water safe to drink?
Is soft water safe to drink? This is a question that many people ask, especially those who live in areas with hard water.
While soft water does have some benefits, such as being less likely to cause plumbing problems, there are also some potential risks associated with drinking it. For example, soft water may contain higher levels of sodium than hard water, which could be a concern for people who are on a low-sodium diet.
In addition, soft water may also contain higher levels of chemicals, such as chlorine, which can be harmful if consumed in large amounts. As a result, it is important to consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional before making the decision to drink soft water.
Benefits of Using a Water Softener Include:
• Soft water is easier on your plumbing and fixtures, and can extend their lifespan.
• Soft water can save you money on soap and detergent because it doesn’t require as much to get things clean.
• Soft water can make your hair and skin feel softer and smoother.
Some of the drawbacks of using a water softener include:
• Water softeners can be expensive, both to purchase and to maintain.
• Water softeners add salt to your water, which some people may not like the taste of.
• Water softeners require regular maintenance, such as adding salt to the unit on a regular basis.
How Does water softener work?
Water softeners work by running hard water through a device called an ion exchange resin. This resin is covered in sodium ions, which attract and bind to the minerals in hard water. This process removes the minerals from the water, leaving you with softer water.
Pros and Cons of water softener
Pros:
• Soft water is easier on your plumbing and fixtures, and can extend their lifespan.
• Soft water can save you money on soap and detergent because it doesn’t require as much to get things clean.
• Soft water can make your hair and skin feel softer and smoother.
Cons:
• Water softeners can be expensive, both to purchase and to maintain.
• Water softeners add salt to your water, which some people may not like the taste of.
• Water softeners require regular maintenance, such as adding salt to the unit on a regular basis.
Common Mistakes When Using water softener?
One of the most common mistakes people make when using a water softener is not adding enough salt. If you don’t add enough salt, the softener will not be able to remove all of the minerals from your water. This can lead to hard water and can cause damage to your plumbing and fixtures.
Another common mistake is not cleaning the softener on a regular basis. Softeners need to be cleaned every few months to remove any build-up of minerals. If you don’t clean the softener, it will eventually stop working altogether.
Finally, many people make the mistake of thinking that all they need to do is add a water softener and their hard water problems will be solved. This is not the case! You also need to make sure that you are using the correct type of soap and detergent for your water. Otherwise, you may find that your dishes and laundry are not as clean as they should be.
FAQs
How often do water softeners need to be replaced?
Most water softeners will last for 10-15 years before they need to be replaced. However, the frequency with which you need to replace your water softener will depend on a number of factors, including the quality of your water, the size of your home, and the amount of water you use. If you have any concerns about whether or not your water softener needs to be replaced, you should consult a plumber or water treatment specialist.
How much does a water softener cost?
Water softeners can range in price from $200-$2000. The price depends on the size of the unit and the type of resin.
Do water softeners remove all minerals from water?
Water softeners do not remove all minerals from water. However, they do remove most of the minerals that cause hard water. This includes calcium, magnesium, and iron. Water softeners use a process called ion exchange to remove these minerals from your water.
How often do I need to add salt to my water softener?
If you have a water softener, you’ll need to add salt to it from time to time. How often you’ll need to do this will depend on how much water you use and the hardness of your water. If you live in an area with hard water, you’ll need to add salt more frequently. You may need to add salt once a week or even more often. If you live in an area with soft water, you may only need to add salt once a month or so.
The best way to determine how often you need to add salt is to check the level of salt in your water softener regularly. Most water softeners have a gauge that can tell you how much salt is in the unit. When the level gets low, it’s time to add more.
Can I install a water softener myself?
If you have some basic plumbing skills and experience, you may be able to install a water softener yourself. However, it’s important to make sure that you understand the process and have all the necessary tools and materials before starting. If you’re not confident in your ability to install a water softener, it’s always best to consult with a professional.
Do I need a water softener if I have a water filter?
Water softeners and water filters serve different purposes. Water softeners remove minerals that can cause hard water, while water filters remove contaminants from water. Depending on the type of water filter you have, it may not remove minerals. If you have hard water, you may need a water softener in addition to a water filter.
What are the benefits of having a water softener?
Some benefits of having a water softener include: softer water, longer lasting appliances, and cleaner laundry.
Are there any disadvantages of having a water softener?
Some disadvantages of having a water softener include: the need to add salt to the unit on a regular basis, and the unit can be expensive to purchase.
How do I know if I need a water softener?
If your water has a high concentration of minerals, it is likely that you will need a water softener. Water softeners work by removing these minerals from the water, making it softer and easier to use. There are a few ways to tell if your water is hard or not. One way is to look for signs of mineral buildup on your fixtures and appliances. If you see white spots or streaks, this is a good indication that your water is hard. Another way to tell is by the feel of the water.
Hard water can feel sticky or slippery, while soft water is typically more smooth and gentle. If you’re not sure whether or not your water is hard, you can always have it tested by a professional. They will be able to tell you for sure and recommend the best course of action.
What are the different types of water softeners?
There are two types of water softeners: cationic and anionic. Cationic resin is more effective at removing hard minerals. Anionic resin is more effective at removing soap scum. You need to decide which type of resin is best for your needs. If you have hard water and soap scum, you may want to choose a unit that has both types of resin.
Which type of water softener is best for me?
The type of water softener that’s best for you depends on your needs. If you have hard water and soap scum, you may want to choose a unit that has both cationic and anionic resin. If you only have hard water, a cationic resin unit will be sufficient.
Do water softeners require maintenance?
Water softeners are an important part of any home with hard water. They help to remove the minerals that can cause problems with plumbing and appliances. While water softeners do require some maintenance, it is not as difficult or time-consuming as some people may think. The most important thing to do for a water softener is to keep the salt tank filled.
The salt is what helps to remove the minerals from the water, so if the tank runs low, the water softener will not be as effective. It is usually easy to tell when the salt tank needs to be refilled, as the water softener will make a noise when it is running low on salt. In addition to keeping the salt tank filled, it is also important to occasionally clean out the resin bed.
The resin bed is what actually removes the minerals from the water, and it can become clogged over time. Cleaning out the resin bed is a fairly easy process, and it only needs to be done every few months or so. Overall, water softeners are relatively low-maintenance appliances. As long as you keep the salt tank filled and occasionally clean out the resin bed, your water softener should continue to work effectively for many years.
How often do I need to clean my water softener?
It is important to keep your water softener clean so that it can continue to function properly. Depending on the type of water softener you have, you may need to clean it weekly, monthly, or quarterly. If you have a salt-based water softener, you will need to add salt to the unit on a regular basis.
You should also flush the unit with fresh water every few months to remove any built-up sediment. If you have a potassium-based water softener, you will need to add potassium chloride to the unit on a regular basis. You should also flush the unit with fresh water every few months to remove any built-up sediment.
Cleaning your water softener is important in order to keep it functioning properly. Depending on the type of water softener you have, you may need to clean it as often as once a week or as seldom as once a quarter. By following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, you can be sure your water softener will provide many years of trouble-free service.
How often do I need to add salt to my water softener?
You typically need to add salt to your water softener every 2-3 months. However, if you have a very high quality unit, you may only need to add salt once per year.
Conclusion
So, what is the best water softener for your home in 2022? That depends on a lot of factors, including how big your home is, how much water you use, and your budget. But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. We’ve compiled the best water softener consumer reports, ratings, reviews, tips, and guides to help make your decision easier.
And remember – if you have any questions or need help choosing the right system for your needs, our experts are here to help. Buyer beware – not all water softeners are created equal! Make sure to do your research before making a purchase. Thanks for reading!
Related Articles:
Richard Jimenez is a chef with an impressive culinary resume. He has worked in some of the most prestigious kitchens in the country, and has been featured in several cooking magazines. Richard loves to share his recipes, tips, and best kitchen tools with others. He believes that everyone should be able to cook delicious meals at home, and is passionate about helping people achieve this goal.