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Evaluating the Pros and Cons of Whirlpool Water Softeners

When considering a water softening system for your home, brand reputation, efficiency, and after-sales service are crucial factors. Whirlpool is a renowned name in the home appliance sector, but when it comes to their water softeners, potential buyers may find themselves at crossroads, balancing between the notable features and some of the inherent limitations.

The Downsides:

1. Limited Warranty:

Whirlpool water softeners come with a relatively short warranty period of 1-2 years. Though extension options are available, the industry norm is a lifetime warranty, putting Whirlpool at a disadvantage.

2. Availability and Customer Service:

Currently, these softeners are primarily available through third-party retailers, complicating the after-sales service dynamics. Buyers might have to rely on the retailer’s customer service, potentially undermining the direct accountability and support expected from Whirlpool.

3. Lack of Salt-Free Options:

The absence of salt-free softeners in Whirlpool’s portfolio limits choices for consumers looking for alternatives to traditional salt-based systems.

4. Single Tank Design:

Whirlpool employs a single tank design, which, while efficient, can’t compete with the uninterrupted service of double tank designs that ensure a continuous supply of softened water.

The Upsides:

1. Smart Technology:

One of Whirlpool’s strengths lies in its innovative approach. Their softeners are designed for optimal efficiency, saving both water and salt.

2. Tech-Forward Features:

Some models boast advanced features like integrated Wi-Fi, positioning Whirlpool as a contemporary choice amidst often traditional water softening options.

3. Competitive Pricing:

Price-wise, Whirlpool stands as a competitive option, especially for buyers wary of in-person sales pitches and looking for an online, straightforward purchase process.

Whirlpool Water Softener Prices:

  • The Whirlpool WHES18, a compact home softener with an 18,000-grain capacity, starts at $497.
  • For larger households or higher water usage, options like those with a 48,000-grain capacity can cost upwards of $929.

Important Note:

Prices mentioned often do not include installation fees. If you are buying a softener and filter separately, this could potentially double the installation workload, adding significantly to the total cost.
WHIRLPOOL WHES33WHIRLPOOL WHES48 WHIRLPOOL WHESFC
33,000 Grain Water SoftenerPro Series – 48,000 Grain Water SoftenerPro Series - Softener/Whole Home Filter
WHES33 WHES30WHES48 WHESFCWHES48 WHESFC
Softener onlySoftener onlySoftener and filter
Household size: 1 to 4+ PeopleHousehold size: 1 to 6+ PeopleHousehold size: 1 to 5+ People
Removes a maximum of 105 gpg of hardness.Removes a maximum of 160 gpg of hardness.Removes a maximum of 120 gpg of hardness.
Iron Removal: 9 ppmIron Removal: 12 ppmIron Removal: 3 ppm
Contaminants:
Calcium, Magnesium, Clear Water Iron		Contaminants:
Calcium, Magnesium, Clear Water Iron		Contaminants:
Chlorine, Sediment, Calcium, Magnesium & Clear Water Iron.
Low salt light indicatorLow salt light indicatorLow salt light indicator
Electrical Requirements
AC. 24 Volt
120 Volts.
Transformer Included.		Electrical Requirements
AC. 24 Volt
110/120 Volts.
Transformer Included.		Electrical Requirements
AC. 24 Volt
110/120 Volts.
Transformer Included.
Product Dimensions:
D: 19 in.
W: 18 in.
H: 47 7/8 in.		Product Dimensions:
D: 19 in.
W: 18 in.
H: 47 7/8 in.		Product Dimensions:
D: 19 in.
W: 18 in.
H: 47 7/8 in.
Why get it? For an average 1-2 bathroom home, moderately hard water.Why get it? The highest grain capacity for extremely hard water along with the highest level of iron treatment.Why get it? It both filters and softens your water at the same time.
Biggest drawback?
Does not include a whole house filter.		Biggest drawback? not include a whole house filter.Biggest drawback? The filter is very basic, only really treats sediments, chlorine and a small amount of iron.
1 Year Full Parts and Labor Warranty2 Year Full Parts and Labor Warranty2 Year Full Parts and Labor Warranty

Whirlpool Softeners Key Features:

1. Iron Removal:

  • Pros: Treats small amounts of iron in addition to calcium and magnesium.
  • Consideration: For comprehensive treatment, consider whole house softener and filter combinations.

2. Electricity Requirement:

  • Cons: Needs a 110V outlet; an ongoing operational cost.

3. Low Salt Light:

  • Pros: Convenient indicator for salt refill, enhancing maintenance efficiency.

4. Water Flow Indicator:

  • Pros: Monitors system’s water flow, assisting in leak detection and flow assurance.

5. Short Warranty Period:

  • Cons: 1-2 years standard, though extendable; comparatively shorter than industry norms.

Whirlpool’s Salt-Free Alternative Issue:

1. Salt Requirement:

  • Cons: Ongoing cost and maintenance due to salt requirement.

2. Salt-Free & Filter Combo Alternative - Aquasana Rhino:

Pros

  • Treats hard water without salt.
  • Offers optional powerful filter upgrades.
  • UV filter upgrade available for comprehensive water treatment.
  • Long-lasting, with filters requiring replacement every 10 years.

3. Why Aquasana is a Notable Alternative:

Pros

  • Comprehensive water treatment.
  • VOCs, chlorine, heavy metals, and more, are effectively filtered.
  • High capacity; suitable for households of 1-4 people.
  • Energy and water-efficient, leading to cost savings.
  • Professional-grade installation kit included.
  • Certified by NSF and IAPMO.
  • Consideration: Direct purchase from Aquasana offers a 90-day satisfaction guarantee.

For Medium to Extremely Hard Water - Salt-Based Alternative:

1. All-in-One Water Treatment System:

Pros

  • Combines a salt-based softener and whole house filter.
  • Minimal maintenance required.
  • Multiple stages of advanced water treatment.
  • Easy control and monitoring with an included valve.
  • Warranty: 6 months guarantee and limited lifetime warranty.

Final Thoughts:

While Whirlpool softeners are known for their efficiency and tech-savvy features, their reliance on salt and short standard warranty are notable drawbacks. Alternatives like Aquasana’s Rhino offer a comprehensive, salt-free solution with potent filtration capabilities and longer-lasting performance, presenting a compelling option for those seeking broader water treatment solutions beyond softening. Always consider the total operational costs, maintenance needs, and warranty offerings when choosing a water treatment system to ensure it aligns with your household’s specific needs and expectations.
Rhino ® with Salt-Free Water Conditioner, UV Filter and Pro-Grade Bypass KitScreenshot 2023 11 24 at 11.58.10 AM
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:? NOControl 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.
icon which indicates checking the price and availability and read customer reviewsicon which indicates checking the price and availability and read customer reviews

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