Evaluation of WaterGroup Water Softener: Is It Worth the Investment?

Mark Alpers
September 1, 2023

WaterGroup softeners, akin to Fleck’s, have been under scrutiny recently. Despite their initial appeal, several drawbacks might deter potential buyers. Here we dissect the notable issues and evaluate if WaterGroup still holds a competitive edge in the water treatment market.

Issues with WaterGroup Water Softeners

Lack of Integrated Filtration

Basic WaterGroup models lack integrated water filtration, a glaring omission considering their price tag. Customers are forced to incur additional costs for separate filtration systems and professional installation, raising the overall investment to $1600 – $2000. In contrast, brands like Aquasana offer comprehensive solutions that both soften and filter water.

Limited Contaminant Removal

Even models with integrated filters offer limited contaminant removal, primarily targeting sediments and basic contaminants. This pales in comparison to competitors like SpringWell, whose systems effectively remove a wider range of contaminants, including chlorine, viruses, mercury, and pharmaceuticals.

Warranty Concerns

DIY installation of WaterGroup softeners may void the warranty, forcing customers to hire professionals. This contrasts with other brands offering professional-grade installation kits, enhancing user flexibility and cost savings.

Analyzing WaterGroup’s Standing

Company Background

Founded in 1968, WaterGroup has carved a niche in the water treatment industry in Canada and the US. Their commitment to quality and innovation is notable, but does it translate to product efficacy and value?

Canature by WaterGroup

Canature stands as a subsidiary, manufacturing a variety of water conditioning components. Despite its Quality Assurance Certification and in-house manufacturing, the “dealer direct model” limits direct customer engagement and accessibility.

Comprehensive Evaluation of WaterGroup Water Softener

The Hard Water Predicament

Water’s integral role in daily chores is often undermined until the menacing effects of hard water surface. Limescale deposits, stained sinks, and reduced efficiency of water appliances are telltale signs of hard water intrusion. Hard water deposits can afflict skin, hair, clothing, and escalate energy costs due to clogged pipes and reduced efficiency of boilers and tanks.

WaterGroup Water Softener: A Closer Look

WaterGroup surfaces as a contender in mitigating hard water issues. This brand is tailored for varied applications, including commercial, industrial, and residential settings. But does it rise to the occasion?

Pros:

Automated Control: WaterGroup softeners boast meter-controlled systems that automate water consumption calculations, ensuring regenerations are only performed when necessary, optimizing water conservation and resin bed efficiency.

Benefits:

A noticeable reduction in mineral deposits in bathrooms and toilets.
A potential 50% reduction in detergent and shampoo consumption.
Enhanced lifespan and reduced maintenance costs for appliances.
At least a 10% reduction in energy bills.
Improved skin condition, notably for eczema sufferers.
Softer, brighter clothes and hair.
Time and cost savings from reduced need for lime removal chemicals.

Cons:

Accessibility: The product’s unavailability on mainstream online platforms and the necessity to purchase through authorized dealers can be a limitation for prospective buyers seeking convenience.
Price: A lack of transparent pricing due to the dealer-centric sales model can potentially deter buyers seeking upfront price clarity.

WaterGroup vs Fleck: The Showdown

Initially, Fleck 5600SXT reigned supreme due to its effectiveness against hard water, ease of installation, and maintenance. However, a pivotal revelation has shifted the narrative.

The Shift:

The Softening Conundrum: While Fleck excels in softening, it doesn’t filter water, unveiling a critical limitation.
The Hidden Costs: The initial cost allure of Fleck is debunked upon realizing the additional costs and hassle of integrating separate filters to make the softened water drinkable.

The Emergence of All-In-One Solutions

The revelation about Fleck’s limitation underscores the ascendancy of all-in-one softener and filter combinations. These comprehensive solutions offer both softening and filtration, epitomized by brands like Aquasana and others offering multi-stage filter processes and hard water treatment.

Key Features:

Comprehensive Treatment: Treats water hardness and filters contaminants in a single process.
Cost and Time Efficiency: Eliminates the need for separate softening and filtration systems, reducing maintenance and installation hassles.
Accessibility: Available for direct online purchase, circumventing the need for sales visits or authorized dealers.

The Verdict

While WaterGroup offers automated control and a slew of benefits, its accessibility and price transparency could be potential deal-breakers. The rise of all-in-one softener and filter combinations underscores a market inclination towards comprehensive, convenient, and cost-effective water treatment solutions.

Future Trajectories

For consumers, the pivot towards solutions that offer both soft and clean, safe water for consumption is evident. WaterGroup, amidst its benefits, might need to innovate and adapt to the evolving consumer preferences oriented towards comprehensive, accessible, and cost-effective water treatment solutions to retain its market relevance.


Treats hard water UP TO 25 ppm (low to medium low hard water).	Treats hard water OVER 25 ppm (medium to extremely hard water).
Does NOT require electricity.	Requires electricity if using the electronic head monitor.
Control Your System With An App:? NO	Control Your System With An App:? YES
- Powerful salt-FREE water softener. - 1,000,000 one million gallon capacity. - Aquasana Rhino exceeds NSF standards. - Treats hard water WITHOUT salt. - Removes chlorine, bacteria, iron, sulfide, manganese, mercury, lead etc. - Includes pre-filter, copper-zinc and carbon filtration stages with standard fittings. - 90-Day Pure Satisfaction Guarantee. - Limited 10 year warranty.	- Powerful salt-BASED water softener. - 1,000,000 one million gallon capacity. - Also includes a multi-stage filter. - Easy installation (inside or outside) - Sufficient for 1-3 bathrooms (options for 4-6 and 7+ bathrooms also available). - 6 month money back guarantee. - Limited lifetime warranty.

City Sewers

Private Sewers & Septic Systems

Treatment Plants