Unbiased Review: Navigating the World of the Best Water Softener Systems

In this insightful review, we take an exploratory journey into the universe of water softener systems, breaking down the complexities, providing invaluable insights, and spotlighting the crème de la crème of these essential household appliances.

The Hard Water Conundrum

Hard water is a universal household issue, not a unique occurrence, affecting millions of homes in both the UK and the US. Characterized by a high concentration of calcium and magnesium, it manifests in the pesky, persistent limescale that adorns sinks, taps, and home appliances. The US Geological Survey underscores that approximately 85% of American homes grapple with hard water.

The Water Softener Systems: A Panacea

Aquasana Whole House SystemsWater softener systems emerge as the knight in shining armor against hard water. They eradicate the hard minerals, mitigating the associated adversities including hindered lather formation, dry skin, and clogged plumbing systems.

Diving Deep: Types of Water Softener Systems

Various systems each with distinct mechanisms and features provide an array of options for potential users.

Salt-Based Systems

Armed with a bypass valve, a necessity mandated by most local plumbing codes, you dive into the plumbing aspect.

These prevalent systems utilize salt to replace hard minerals. They incorporate resin beads or brine tanks and hinge on ion exchange processes. However, their regeneration cycle could pose a challenge, particularly for larger families or high water usage scenarios.

Salt-Free Systems

Contrary to their name, these systems do not ‘soften’ water but rather condition or descale it. They are a boon for those monitoring sodium intake, but might fall short in cases of severe hard water issues.

Magnetic Water Descalers

These non-traditional ‘softeners’ employ magnetic fields to condition water, inhibiting mineral adherence to pipes.

Dual-Tank Softeners

These systems offer uninterrupted soft water supply, mitigating the downtime associated with regeneration cycles, ensuring consistent supply even during the recharging phase.

In the Spotlight: Hard Water and Its Adversities

Aquasana Superior Filtration DetailHard water’s adversities extend beyond health impacts. Its true havoc unfurls in the realm of plumbing and appliances. The crystallization of dissolved minerals during heating leads to scales, which clog pipes and compromise the efficacy and lifespan of appliances.

Solving the Hard Water Puzzle

Optimh20 Whol House FilterThe primary step in this journey is the utilization of a water hardness test kit. A comprehension of the level of hardness provides a foundation for the selection of an apt water softener system.

Features and Specifications: The Differentiators

Two pivotal factors define a water softener – its size and its features.

Size Matters

The spatial aspect is critical. A balance between space availability and the capacity of the softener is essential. Larger systems boast higher capacities and are more adept at handling significant water hardness.

Control and Features

Acquaintance with the controls, particularly those governing regeneration cycles, salt, and water requirements, is vital. Timer controls and Demand-Initiated Regeneration (DIR) controls are the two primary categories, with the latter being more efficient and resource-saving.

The Dilemma: To Buy or Lease Water Softener Systems?

Navigating the complexities of securing a water softener system often boils down to a fundamental question: should you buy or lease? The financial implications, maintenance commitments, and long-term benefits are pivotal factors that every homeowner grapples with.

The Financial Implication

Buying A Water Softener

Aquasana SimplySoft ResultsA popular choice like the Fleck SXT 5600 doesn’t require one to break the bank, sitting at an accessible price range of $500 – $700. The maintenance isn’t a financial nightmare either; softener salt would set you back a mere $10-$20.

Leasing Dilemma

On the leasing front, the initial glance at offerings from companies like Culligan might seem appealing, with promises of rates as low as $25/month. However, the devil lies in the details – or in this case, the hidden costs. The reality often escalates to an excess of $100/month, a figure that doesn’t factor in the costs of salt and maintenance.

Choosing The Right Water Company

Reputation and Longevity

App Controlled SoftenerThe first port of call in this journey is a thorough assessment of the brand’s reputation and longevity in the market. A well-established entity often translates to quality products and a commitment to consumer satisfaction.

Comparative Analysis

When it comes to installation, a comparative analysis is indispensable. Securing at least three quotes and juxtaposing the level of services, regeneration cycles, control types, and additional fees yields a comprehensive insight. Certificates and awards, like an NSF certification, can further bolster the decision-making process.

The Certifications Conundrum

WQA Gold Seal

Aquasana Whole House UV FilterThe Water Quality Association’s Gold Seal serves an important purpose, ascertaining the quality and performance of water treatment equipment.

However, these certifications aren’t the ‘be all and end all’. They affirm that the equipment has met industry standards and validated the manufacturer’s claims but aren’t definitive proof of quality.

The Verdict

Buying a water softener system emerges as the victor in this comparison. Despite the upfront cost and the necessity for professional installation, the long-term financial and practical benefits are undeniable. The leasing option, though seemingly convenient, is often marred by hidden costs and fees that accumulate over time.

In the grand scheme of things, ownership not only offers financial respite but also ensures that maintenance and upkeep are tailored to the individual needs of the homeowner, rather than being subject to the stipulations of a leasing agreement.


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.
See Best Offer	See Best Offer