We all know the struggle of dealing with hard water in our homes. The tough soap scum and dull, lifeless hair are telltale signs of its existence. That’s why choosing the right water softener is crucial for improving the quality of water in your home.
But with so many options on the market, how do you know which one is the best fit for your needs?
Well, sit tight because we're about to unravel the top 15 water softeners that can transform your home's water and make a noticeable difference in your daily routine.
Key Takeaways
- The Aquasure Harmony Series and Whirlpool WHES40E are highly recommended whole house water softeners with high grain capacities.
- The Whirlpool WHESFC Pro Series offers a hybrid option with both a softener and whole home filter.
- The On The Go OTG3NTP3M is a portable water softener, ideal for outdoor use or for those who frequently travel.
- It is important to consider maintenance and care products such as Pro Products ResCare Water Softener Cleaner and Res Care Resin Cleaner to ensure proper functioning of the water softener.
Aquasure Harmony Series Whole House Water Softener (48,000 Grains)
The Aquasure Harmony Series Whole House Water Softener (48,000 Grains) is the ideal choice for households with 3-4 bathrooms seeking a reliable solution to protect appliances and improve water quality. This water softener is designed to reduce water hardness and prevent scale buildup, effectively safeguarding your appliances. With its ability to remove skin-damaging minerals, it also enhances the overall quality of your water.
The automatic digital metered control head allows for easy customization and maintenance. Made with premium-quality materials and backed by a 5-year extended warranty, it offers both durability and peace of mind. With a flow rate of 12 gallons per minute, this water softener ensures a steady supply of softened water for your household needs. Additionally, it has garnered positive customer reviews, making it a top choice in the market.
Best For: Large households with 3-4 bathrooms seeking to protect appliances and improve water quality with a reliable and durable water softener.
Pros:
- Removes skin-damaging minerals and prevents scale buildup
- Easy customization and maintenance with automatic digital metered control head
- Positive customer reviews and a 5-year extended warranty for peace of mind
Cons:
- Requires additional systems for chlorine removal and sediment catching
Whirlpool WHES40E 40,000 Grain Whole House Softener
Ideal for households of 1-6+ people, the Whirlpool WHES40E 40,000 Grain Whole House Softener effectively removes up to 10 ppm of clear water iron and is NSF certified to reduce hard water symptoms. It calculates and uses only necessary salt and water, ensuring efficient performance. The softener eliminates mineral stains, extends appliance lifespan, and requires less detergent for cleaner and softer fabrics. It also promotes healthy and soft hair and skin.
With demand initiated regeneration, it conserves salt and water, making it a cost-effective choice. The unit works seamlessly on city water or well water, and the low salt indicator light provides convenience. Simple to program electronics and the inclusion of an installation kit and bypass valve make installation hassle-free.
With positive reviews praising its reliability and performance, the Whirlpool WHES40E 40,000 Grain Whole House Softener comes highly recommended for long-term use.
Best For: Ideal for households with 1-6+ people looking for efficient removal of clear water iron and reduction of hard water symptoms.
Pros:
- Efficiently removes clear water iron and reduces hard water symptoms
- Demand initiated regeneration conserves salt and water
- Works on city water or well water with low salt indicator light
Cons:
- Potential for poor packaging leading to damaged unit upon delivery
Whirlpool 30,000 Grain Softener with Salt & Water Saving Technology
With its automatic salt and water regeneration for savings, the Whirlpool 30,000 Grain Softener with Salt & Water Saving Technology is an excellent choice for households of 1-4 plus people looking to improve their water quality. It effectively removes up to 8ppm of clear water (ferrous) iron and is NSF certified to reduce hard water symptoms. Customers have praised its easy installation and adjustment for water hardness, along with its quiet operation.
To maintain its efficiency, regular cleaning every 4 months with the Whirlpool cleaner is recommended. While some users have reported malfunctions, the majority have had positive experiences with the product and its customer support.
Overall, the Whirlpool 30,000 Grain Softener offers a reliable and efficient solution for addressing hard water issues in smaller households.
Best For: The Whirlpool 30,000 Grain Softener with Salt & Water Saving Technology is best for households of 1-4 plus people seeking to improve water quality and reduce hard water symptoms.
Pros:
- Easy installation and adjustment for water hardness
- Effective removal of up to 8ppm of clear water (ferrous) iron
- Quiet operation
Cons:
- Some users reported malfunctions
Whirlpool WHESFC Pro Series – Softener/Whole Home Filter Hybrid, Gray
For households seeking a cost-effective and efficient solution to remove hard water minerals and harmful contaminants, the Whirlpool WHESFC Pro Series – Softener/Whole Home Filter Hybrid, Gray offers a reliable 2-in-1 system. With a 31,000 grain capacity and a hardness removal rating of 120 grains per gallon, it effectively caters to families of 1-to-5 by reducing sediment, chlorine taste, and odor from the water used throughout the home.
The demand-initiated regeneration technology ensures soft water is produced as needed, minimizing salt costs. Additionally, this system boasts a 3 ppm iron removal rating, addressing reddish-brown stains. With up to 25% less salt and water usage compared to previous models, it's an environmentally conscious choice.
While installation may require a knowledgeable handyman, users have reported consistent water softening over time, making it a practical and budget-friendly option for improved water quality.
Best For: Families of 1-to-5 seeking a cost-effective and efficient solution to remove hard water minerals and harmful contaminants from their home's water supply.
Pros:
- 2-in-1 system combining water softener and whole home filter
- Demand-initiated regeneration technology for minimized salt costs
- Consistent water softening over time reported by users
Cons:
- Installation may require a knowledgeable handyman
Morton Water Softener Salt Pellets, 40 pounds (2 pack)
Wondering how to prevent buildup in pipes and appliances while improving the efficiency and lifespan of your home water system? Consider Morton Water Softener Salt Pellets, 40 pounds (2 pack).
Morton Clean and Protect Water Softener Salt is designed to prevent buildup in pipes and appliances, extending their life and enhancing efficiency. It also helps soften water, reducing dryness to skin and hair caused by hard water. With decreased buildup in pipes and appliances, cleaning becomes easier and dishes and faucets are left spot-free.
These salt pellets fit all types of water softeners and come in a pack of two 40-pound bags. The bags feature an easy-tear opening and sturdy plastic handle for convenience. Backed by positive customer reviews and a trusted brand, Morton, these salt pellets are a reliable choice to maintain your home's water quality.
Best For: Homeowners with hard water who want to prevent buildup in pipes and appliances and improve the efficiency of their water system.
Pros:
- Prevents buildup in pipes and appliances
- Softens water, reducing dryness to skin and hair
- Makes cleaning easier and leaves dishes and faucets spot-free
Cons:
- Requires regular replacement every other month
Pro Products ResCare Water Softener Cleaner Liquid Refill (1 Gallon, 4 Pack)
The Pro Products ResCare Water Softener Cleaner Liquid Refill (1 Gallon, 4 Pack) is a specially formulated solution designed to rid water softeners of contaminants that standard salt treatments can't remove, ensuring peak efficiency and longevity of the unit.
This all-purpose cleaner is specifically crafted to restore softener beads and control valve parts to their optimal performance, ultimately extending the life of the water softener. The product can be manually applied or used with an Easy Feeder for ongoing defense against contaminant build-up.
With simple usage instructions that recommend pouring 4 oz. (1/2 cup) of Res Care resin cleaner per cubic foot directly into the brine well or salt tank, this solution is easy to incorporate into regular maintenance routines.
Manufactured by Pro Products LLC, a trusted provider of high-quality water system solutions, this liquid refill has received positive feedback from customers, with many highlighting its effectiveness when used regularly.
Best For: Homeowners looking to maintain the peak efficiency and longevity of their water softener units.
Pros:
- Effectively removes contaminants that standard salt treatments cannot
- Restores softener beads and control valve parts to optimal performance
- Can be manually applied or used with an Easy Feeder for ongoing defense against contaminant build-up
Cons:
- Requires manual regeneration of the softener after application
On The Go OTG3NTP3M Portable Water Softener
A compact and portable solution for soft water, the On The Go OTG3NTP3M Portable Water Softener efficiently removes impurities and scale, making it an ideal choice for RV owners seeking improved water quality on the go.
The unit's tank size is 6-3/4 inches in diameter and 22 inches in height, producing 320-800 gallons of soft water with a hardness of 10-25 grains.
Its space-saving and lightweight design, along with easy regeneration using common table salt, makes it convenient for RV use. The softener is suitable for most RVs and can be easily stored in a storage bay.
It requires no electricity and allows high flow rates with very low pressure drop. Customer reviews highlight its effectiveness in preventing build-up in plumbing, improving water quality, and providing a good soap lather.
With positive customer feedback and the added convenience of Amazon.com's Voluntary 30-Day Return Guarantee, the On The Go OTG3NTP3M Portable Water Softener offers a reliable solution for RV water softening needs.
Best For: RV owners seeking a portable and easy-to-use solution for improving water quality on the go.
Pros:
- Compact and portable design
- Easy regeneration using common table salt
- Suitable for most RVs and easy to store
Cons:
- Requires manual regeneration with salt
Home and Country USA 50 Pound Bag of All Natural Solar Salt
For those seeking a reliable and cost-effective solution for combating hard water problems, the Home and Country USA 50 Pound Bag of All Natural Solar Salt is an ideal choice.
This 100% natural high-quality solar salt is designed to remove hard water minerals, prolonging the lifespan of appliances and reducing residue build-up.
Its economical 50-pound size makes it an easy-to-handle and pour option, providing effective results every time.
The versatility of this product allows for its application in various settings, catering to homeowners, commercial establishments, and DIY enthusiasts.
By following the simple usage instructions and adding the solar salt to the water softener system as directed, users can enjoy the benefits of this reliable and effective water softener.
With its proven track record, this solar salt provides a practical and convenient solution for improving water quality.
Best For: Homeowners, commercial establishments, and DIY enthusiasts seeking a cost-effective and reliable solution for combating hard water problems.
Pros:
- Economical 50-pound size for easy handling and pouring
- Effective at removing hard water minerals and reducing residue build-up
- Versatile application for various settings
Cons:
- May not be suitable for individuals with specific water softener system requirements
Home and Country All Natural Solar Salt for Water Softener. (50, Pounds)
Best choice for homeowners, commercial establishments, and DIY enthusiasts seeking an economical and eco-friendly water softening solution, the Home and Country All Natural Solar Salt offers superior softening properties with its extra coarse salt crystals. Made from 100% natural solar salt, this product is a greener alternative to traditional water softening methods. Conveniently packaged in robust softener salt bags, it's suitable for both small and large-scale water softening systems.
Its versatile application and economical size make it a cost-effective solution with ample supply of salt crystals. Additionally, using this salt prolongs the lifespan of appliances, removes hard water minerals effectively, and reduces residue buildup. Easy to handle and pour, the Home and Country All Natural Solar Salt is a practical and eco-friendly choice for improving water quality in any setting.
Best For: Homeowners, commercial establishments, and DIY enthusiasts seeking an economical and eco-friendly water softening solution.
Pros:
- Superior softening properties with extra coarse salt crystals
- Versatile application for small and large-scale water softening systems
- Cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to traditional methods
Cons:
- May not be suitable for those with specific water softening system requirements
Clean & Protect Water Softening Pellets, 25-Lbs.
Improving appliance efficiency and extending their lifespan, the Clean & Protect Water Softening Pellets, 25-Lbs. by Morton Salt is an essential choice for maintaining home water quality. With its convenient 25 lb. easy-lift bag and easy-tear opening, maintenance is a breeze.
These pellets not only soften water for a gentler feel on skin and hair but also reduce the buildup of hard water minerals in pipes and appliances. This results in cleaner and spot-free glasses, dishes, and faucets. Made by Morton, a trusted brand since 1848, these pellets are designed to clean water softeners while effectively removing hard water minerals.
The product has received positive reviews, boasting an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars. With its proven ability to prevent mineral buildup and improve appliance efficiency, it's a top choice for those seeking reliable water softening solutions.
Best For: Homeowners looking to maintain water quality and extend the lifespan of appliances with a trusted and efficient water softening solution.
Pros:
- Easy to lift and handle 25 lb. bag for convenient maintenance
- Softens water for a gentler feel on skin and hair
- Reduces buildup of hard water minerals in pipes and appliances, leading to cleaner and spot-free surfaces
Cons:
- May not be suitable for individuals with specific water softening needs
Diamond Crystal Water Softener Salt, 50 lb. Pellets (Оne Расk)
With its innovative 2-handle bag for easier lifting and transport, the Diamond Crystal 50 lb. Water Softener Salt, Bright & Soft Series, Pellets, 99.8% Purity is a practical choice for households seeking efficient water softening solutions.
These pellets are designed to remove hard minerals from water, including barium, calcium, iron, and magnesium, making them suitable for use with most water softeners. Users have praised its effectiveness in dealing with high iron levels and providing clean water for the entire house.
Additionally, the convenient packaging has been appreciated, although some users reported discrepancies in the amount received. Despite this, the majority of users find it to be a great value for their water softening needs.
Morton Water Softener Salt Crystals, 40 lb (2 pack)
For households seeking a reliable and natural solution to soften water and reduce buildup in pipes and appliances, Morton Water Softener Salt Crystals, 40 lb (2 pack) is an effective choice. Made from all natural, high purity salt crystals, this product is suitable for any type of water softener. It not only helps to soften water and prevent dryness to skin and hair caused by hard water but also decreases buildup in pipes and appliances.
The convenient packaging is designed with easy-tear opening and a sturdy plastic handle for hassle-free use. By regularly adding between two and four new bags every other month, depending on the household size, the benefits of soft water can be consistently enjoyed.
With a 4.8 out of 5 stars rating based on 35 reviews, Morton Water Softener Salt Crystals are a well-regarded choice for improving water quality at home.
Best For: Those looking for a natural and reliable solution to soften water and reduce buildup in pipes and appliances.
Pros:
- Made from all natural, high purity salt crystals
- Convenient packaging with easy-tear opening and sturdy plastic handle
- Helps prevent dryness to skin and hair caused by hard water
Cons:
- Requires regular purchase and addition to water softener
Home and Country USA 40 Pound Bag of Solar Salt for Water Softener
The Home and Country USA 40 Pound Bag of Solar Salt for Water Softener is an ideal choice for homeowners, commercial establishments, and DIY enthusiasts seeking an effective and budget-friendly solution to combat hard water problems and prolong the lifespan of appliances.
This all-natural solar salt is of high quality and effectively removes hard water minerals, providing softer water and reducing residue build-up. Its versatile application makes it a practical option for various settings.
With easy handling and pouring, this economical 50-pound bag offers a cost-effective solution for all water softening needs. Simply follow the usage instructions by adding the solar salt to your water softener system as directed.
Overall, this product provides high-quality salt crystals for water softening at an affordable price, making it a valuable choice for improving water quality in any setting.
Best For: Homeowners, commercial establishments, and DIY enthusiasts seeking an effective and budget-friendly solution for combatting hard water problems and prolonging the lifespan of appliances.
Pros:
- High-quality salt crystals for water softener
- Budget-friendly choice
- Reduces residue build-up
Cons:
- May not be suitable for those with specific water softening requirements
Whirlpool WHES18 High-Efficiency Compact Home Water Softener, Gray
Ideal for small households with limited space, the Whirlpool WHES18 High-Efficiency Compact Home Water Softener in gray efficiently reduces water hardness and maintains great water pressure. With its compact design and high flow valve, it's specifically tailored for small homes with tight quarters, ensuring optimal performance without taking up too much space.
The 6th Sense Technology sets it apart by monitoring and predicting soft water needs, ultimately saving both money and water. Additionally, being NSF certified, it complies with safety standards, providing peace of mind for users. Its user-friendly nature extends to the DIY installation kit, making it convenient for homeowners to set up.
The unit's capability to reduce water contaminants such as calcium, magnesium, and clear water iron further underscores its effectiveness in enhancing water quality, making it a reliable choice for smaller households seeking improved water.
Best For: Small households with limited space seeking improved water quality and efficient water softening.
Pros:
- Compact design ideal for small homes
- 6th Sense Technology for saving money and water
- DIY installation kit for easy setup
Cons:
- May require adjustments to prevent frequent regeneration
Yumaoqiu Water Softener Power Supply, 24 Volt AC Transformer (Cord Length 275 inches)
With its 275-inch cord length, the Yumaoqiu Water Softener Power Supply offers a convenient solution for homeowners seeking an effective and versatile power source for their water softening systems. This 24 Volt AC Transformer, compatible with many major brands of whole house water softeners, replaces part number 7275907 and has received positive feedback for its compatibility and service.
The long cord length provides flexibility for installation, and its positive reviews highlight its compatibility with specific models, such as the Kenmore UltraSoft 280 model 625.388280 water softener. Additionally, the warm service and fast shipping have been noted as positive aspects. With its customer-friendly approach, including the option to contact the manufacturer for comments or suggestions, the Yumaoqiu Water Softener Power Supply stands out as a reliable choice for powering water softening systems.
Best For: Homeowners looking for a versatile and compatible power supply for their whole house water softeners.
Pros:
- Long 275-inch cord length for flexible installation
- Compatible with many major brands of water softeners
- Positive feedback for compatibility and service
Cons:
- No cons mentioned in the provided information
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Water Softener
When choosing a water softener, we need to consider several key factors.
Capacity, efficiency, installation, maintenance, and brand are all important points to weigh. These factors can greatly impact the effectiveness and longevity of the water softener in improving the quality of our home's water.
Capacity
Considering household size and water usage, selecting the appropriate water softener capacity is essential for effectively removing hardness minerals and ensuring a consistent supply of soft water. The capacity, measured in grains, should align with the household's water usage and the hardness of the water. It determines the amount of hardness minerals the softener can remove before regeneration.
Peak flow rate and water hardness should also be factored in to ensure a steady supply of soft water during high-demand periods. Larger households with more bathrooms and higher water usage may require a water softener with a larger capacity, while smaller households may suffice with a smaller capacity unit.
Evaluating the efficiency of salt usage and the frequency of regeneration cycles based on capacity is crucial for optimal performance and cost-effectiveness.
Efficiency
To maximize cost savings and operational effectiveness, selecting an efficient water softener system is crucial.
When choosing a water softener, it's important to consider efficiency factors such as salt and water usage for regeneration. Look for systems with high-efficiency features like demand-initiated regeneration, which can save on salt and water by regenerating only when necessary.
Assess the overall efficiency of the system, including salt usage, water consumption, and energy efficiency, to ensure cost-effective operation. Advanced technologies like 6TH SENSE or automatic metered control heads can optimize efficiency by accurately monitoring and predicting water softening needs.
Additionally, consider the efficiency of maintenance products included with the water softener, such as salt pellets or cleaning solutions, to ensure long-term effectiveness and cost savings.
Installation
We recommend assessing our household's water quality and conducting a hardness test before selecting a water softener system. Once the appropriate system is chosen, there are key factors to consider during installation.
It's important to install a chlorine removal system before the softener to prolong resin life and use a sediment catching filter for improved water quality. Additionally, adjusting the control head's Regen settings based on feed water hardness is crucial, as is sheltering the softener from sun and rain to prevent damage.
It's also essential to ensure the softener connects to plumbing of sufficient diameter and to consider the space available for installation, especially for compact designs. Seeking professional installation for complex systems and ensuring compatibility of the power supply are also important considerations.
Maintenance
When selecting a water softener, it's important to consider maintenance factors to ensure long-term effectiveness and functionality. Regularly monitoring and adjusting the regeneration settings based on the feed water hardness is crucial for optimal performance.
Additionally, protecting the water softener from sunlight and rain is essential to prevent damage and maintain its functionality. Using a chlorine removal system before the water softener can prolong the resin's lifespan and ensure effective operation.
Installing a sediment-catching filter can also enhance water quality and prevent mineral buildup in the softener. Periodic hardness tests should be performed, and the water softener settings should be adjusted accordingly to address changes in water hardness levels.
Brand
Considering the household's specific needs and water usage patterns, it's crucial to carefully evaluate different brands of water softeners to ultimately select the most suitable option.
When assessing brands, it's important to consider the capacity and size of the water softener to ensure it can effectively cater to the household's requirements. Look for features like automatic regeneration, demand-initiated regeneration, or 6th sense technology, as these can optimize salt and water usage, resulting in cost savings.
Additionally, checking the warranty and customer support options is essential to ensure reliable after-sales service. Customer reviews can provide valuable insights into performance, ease of installation, and long-term satisfaction with a particular brand.
Lastly, consider the compatibility and ease of maintenance, including the availability of maintenance products like water softener salt and cleaner, to ensure seamless operation and upkeep.
Warranty
Selecting a water softener with a comprehensive warranty is essential to ensure long-term protection and peace of mind for the household's water quality needs. When considering a water softener, it's crucial to review the warranty coverage, including the duration and what it encompasses.
A robust warranty often indicates the manufacturer's confidence in the product's quality and durability. Look for warranties that cover not only the tank and control valve but also other crucial components like the brine tank and resin.
Additionally, pay attention to whether the warranty includes labor costs for repairs or replacements, as this could potentially save significant expenses in the future. Prioritizing a water softener with a solid warranty can provide reassurance and financial protection, making it a key factor in the decision-making process.
Compatibility
After ensuring a comprehensive warranty for our water softener, it's crucial to assess the compatibility of the system with our household's water quality needs and infrastructure.
Firstly, we need to consider the hardness level of our water. Testing the water hardness will help us determine the appropriate grain capacity for the water softener.
Additionally, examining the size of the water softener and its installation requirements is vital. We must ensure that the system fits into our available space and can be properly connected to our existing plumbing.
Furthermore, if our household has specific water usage patterns, such as high demand during certain times, we should choose a water softener that can accommodate these needs.
Power Supply
When choosing a water softener, it's essential to ensure that the power supply meets the system's requirements and is compatible with our household's electrical infrastructure. Most water softeners require a standard electrical outlet to power the system. It's important to consider the location of the outlet in relation to where the water softener will be installed to avoid any potential issues with reaching the power supply.
Additionally, some advanced water softeners may have specific voltage or frequency requirements, so it's crucial to check these specifications and ensure that they align with our home's power supply. Failure to do so could result in the water softener not functioning properly or potential damage to the system.
Therefore, verifying the power supply compatibility is a crucial step when selecting a water softener for our home.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Know Which Water Softener Is the Right Size for My Home?
We can determine the right water softener size for your home by considering factors like the water hardness level, daily water usage, and the number of individuals in your household.
It's crucial to calculate the grain capacity needed to effectively soften your water and prevent scale buildup.
Consulting with a professional can also provide valuable insights tailored to your specific water softening needs.
Are There Any Specific Maintenance Requirements for These Water Softeners?
We've found that most water softeners require regular maintenance, such as adding salt or potassium chloride to the brine tank and cleaning the resin bed.
For instance, in our case, we schedule a monthly check to ensure everything is functioning properly. It's essential to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for specific maintenance requirements.
Neglecting maintenance can lead to decreased efficiency and potential damage to the softening system.
Can These Water Softeners Be Used With Well Water or Only With City Water?
Yes, these water softeners can be used with well water or city water. They're designed to effectively treat hard water regardless of the water source.
It's important to consider the specific water softener model's capacity and compatibility with well water, as well as any additional pre-treatment requirements that may be necessary for well water usage.
Always consult the manufacturer's guidelines for the best results.
What Is the Expected Lifespan of These Water Softeners?
We expect the lifespan of these water softeners to vary based on usage and maintenance. Regular care can prolong their effectiveness, but eventually, they may need replacement.
Proper upkeep and occasional servicing can help maximize their lifespan. Regular check-ups and care will ensure that you get the most out of your water softener.
Do These Water Softeners Come With a Warranty or Guarantee?
Yes, the water softeners come with a warranty or guarantee. The warranty typically covers parts and labor for a specific period, giving us peace of mind.
It's important to review the warranty details to understand what's included and for how long. This can vary between different models and manufacturers.
Can Water Softeners Help to Remove Kitchen Grease and Messes?
Water softeners can help to remove kitchen grease and messes by reducing the minerals in water that can contribute to buildup. However, for the best results, it’s still important to use the best degreasers for kitchen surfaces to ensure thorough cleaning and sanitation.
Conclusion
After installing the Aquasure Harmony Series Whole House Water Softener, our skin felt softer and our hair was more manageable. The difference was clear, and we didn't realize how much the hard water was affecting us until we made the switch.
It's amazing how something as simple as a water softener can have such a big impact on our daily lives. Investing in a good water softener is definitely worth it for better quality water at home.
