Why Fleck Water Softeners May Not Be Your Best Choice in 2024

Mark Alpers
January 5, 2024

Stepping into the world of water softeners? Chances are you’ve stumbled upon the name Fleck. But let me walk you through why, in 2023, Fleck may not be the best choice for your home.

1. Absence of Integrated Filters

Fleck softeners, in their basic forms, don’t double as water filters. At a starting cost of roughly $1100, one might assume that’s the end of expenses. But no, add in the costs of hiring a plumber and getting a filter. You’re looking at an amount somewhere in the ballpark of $1600-$2000. Suddenly, you’re juggling multiple devices just to get clean, soft water.

In contrast, brands like Aquasana are rolling out all-in-one solutions that address all water concerns, not just hardness. Furthermore, Fleck’s rare integrated filters are pretty elementary. They’ll sift out sediments and some contaminants, but they pale in comparison to all-inclusive systems like SpringWell’s, which handle contaminants ranging from chlorine to pharmaceuticals.

2. DIY Installation Concerns

Thinking of a DIY Fleck installation? Be cautious. You could be risking your warranty. Brands like Aquasana, however, cater to the DIY crowd, providing professional-grade installation kits, enabling homeowners to potentially save on installation costs.

A Quick Dive into Fleck's World

Fleck, undeniably, is a heavyweight in the water softener industry, boasting a rich history and a legion of satisfied customers. Many of their products even come with a 5-year warranty. But let’s roll up our sleeves and explore whether Fleck is genuinely the gold standard.

By the end of this piece, you’ll have a clear idea about Fleck’s position in the market and if it fits your needs.

Understanding The Need To Filter Tap Water

Consider the numerous times you turn on the tap daily. From hydrating to cooking, washing dishes, and more, tap water seeps into various aspects of our lives. So, the question is, are you comfortable using potentially hard or contaminated water for these tasks?

For the discerning individual, the quality of what goes into their body and their immediate environment is paramount. And if you’re still on the fence, here’s why filtering your tap water is critical:

Hard water’s footprint is everywhere – from your kettle to your sink. Over time, this can affect the functionality and lifespan of your appliances.
Unfiltered water can lead to clogged pipes and showerhead residue.
Are you okay with consuming added substances like fluoride or chlorine? If not, consider filtering your water.
Tired of the unsightly limescale marring your kitchen aesthetics? Filtering is the solution.

Water Hardness Map of America (USA)

The Fleck Advantage

Let’s give credit where it’s due. Fleck does have its merits:

Ease of Assembly: Fleck water softeners are user-friendly. They arrive ready for plumbing. And for those who might be apprehensive, Fleck offers instructional videos to guide you.
User-friendly Interface: No convoluted settings here. Fleck machines feature intuitive push-button programming.
Stellar Customer Support: While there are outliers, the general sentiment is that Fleck shines in the customer service department.
Budget-Friendly: Fleck’s varied offerings mean there’s likely a product that fits your budget.
Eco-conscious Design: Their units, crafted from high-quality materials, prioritize energy efficiency.
Easy Availability of Parts: With Fleck, you aren’t on a wild goose chase for replacement parts. They’re readily accessible.
WQA Certification: Always a plus in our books. This external validation is crucial when choosing a water softener.

Discovering the Crème de la Crème of Fleck Water Softeners

Navigating the broad spectrum of water softeners available can be intricate, but here’s a meticulous exploration of the top three Fleck models and an insight into determining the right fit for your household.

Your Water, Under the Microscope

Understanding the nature of your water is pivotal. The hardness level, consumption rate, and the number of individuals reliant on it form the cornerstone of your selection criteria. We recommend a meticulous laboratory water test, offering precision and insights far beyond the reach of basic home kits. Order the test, receive the kit, send back your sample, and voila, your detailed water profile is just a click away.

A Closer Look at Fleck's Distinguished Trio

Fleck 5600 SXT 48,000

This model is not just Fleck’s crowning jewel but a universal favorite. With a 48,000 grains capacity and a 12 gpm flow rate, it’s engineered for medium to large households. User experience is elevated with a back-lit LCD and touchpad controls. The ion-exchange process ensures magnesium and calcium are shown the exit door, with a meter-based regeneration enhancing efficiency. The brine tank, capable of holding 250 pounds of pelleted salt, is compact yet mighty. A float and overflow drain act as sentinels against overfilling, and the warranties (5 years on the head and 10 years on the tank) offer an extra layer of assurance.

Fleck 7000 SXT

Scaling up, we encounter the 7000 SXT, armed with a 64,000 grains capacity and brandishing Fleck’s innovative 7000 valve, designed to manage a robust 35 gpm flow rate. Efficiency is embedded in its DNA, thanks to an integral microprocessor ensuring soft water production dovetails with minimal salt consumption.

Fleck 9100 SXT Dual Tank

The 9100 SXT is the answer for households with pronounced water hardness and elevated consumption. The dual-tank mechanism ensures soft water is ever-present. Each tank boasts a 1.5 cubic feet capacity of resin, and an On-Demand Flow meter aligns production with consumption, marking the epitome of efficiency.

Fleck’s Value Proposition

At a starting price of $1100+, Fleck water softeners cement their worth for those eyeing solely water softening solutions. Installation is straightforward, parts are readily available, and customer service is responsive and adept. Each model comes WQA certified, accentuating their credibility and reliability.

Customizing Your Choice

Your household’s specific needs dictate the optimal choice:

Fleck 5600 SXT: Perfect for a 1-3 person household contending with medium hard water.
Fleck 9100 SXT: Tailor-made for a 4-6 person household battling medium to heavy hard water.
Fleck 7000 SXT: The solution for households of 5 or more, navigating the challenges of very hard water.

Why Aquasana Trumps the Competition

A Comprehensive Approach

Fleck focuses on softening, but what about filtering? This gap is where Aquasana Rhino shines. It doesn’t just soften; it purifies, ensuring every drop is clean and safe.

Limited Filtering? Not Here

Fleck’s built-in filters are basic at best. Aquasana steps it up with a robust system that eliminates chlorine, VOCs, heavy metals, and more. It’s not just softening; it’s complete water treatment.

UV Advantage

While efficiency is key, Aquasana adds an eco-friendly touch with its salt-free system. It treats hard water effectively, no salt needed – a win for you and the environment.

DIY Installation

Bid farewell to hefty plumber fees. Aquasana’s professional-grade installation kit makes setting up easy, saving you both time and money.

Certified Excellence

NSF certified, Aquasana isn’t just about claims – it’s proven. Every filter, every process, tested and validated for your peace of mind.

Risk-Free Experience

Purchased directly from Aquasana, each unit comes with a 90-Day “Pure Satisfaction” guarantee. It’s not just a purchase; it’s a pact of quality and reliability.

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