Improve the quality of your water with the best smart water softener. Many homes are already using this machine, and they found it very effective in dealing with hard water.
If you are thinking of purchasing a unit for your home, you might feel lost. You find yourself starting to read consumer reports about these systems, which is okay—no need to worry. If you are reading this, then you are at the right place. We can help you make a sound decision. Here are the three C’s you should keep in mind while browsing the Internet or your local shop for an excellent smart water softener.
- Capacity: Unlike a salt-free water softener, salt softeners have resin capacity that you should consider. This will depend on the number of family members and the average water usage. Note that the larger the volume, the less frequent the units need to be regenerated. Another capability you should look into is the brine tank linked to the amount of resin and salt required.
- Controls: Each brand and model, like the Culligan water softener, has different controls. Your options will range from automatic functions to adjustable buttons. It would help if you check according to this; it’ll ensure that commands of the unit are easy to figure out and operate.
- Certification: Some people overlook this one, but you shouldn’t. A certification is a proof that the water softener being sold is one that meets specific standards. In addition, it adds credibility to the product.
You might find it intimidating to make a buying decision with the vast choices available in the market. In addition, the three factors we have presented sound like only the tip of the iceberg because it is. We got more, starting with the good housekeeping water softener reviews and the buying guide in the next section. So, read on!
Whirlpool WHES40E
| Tank Size | 19 in x 47.87 in |
| Weight | 106.8 Pounds |
| Capacity | 40,000 Grains |
Water2Buy W2B800
| Tank Size | 19.69 in x 43.31 in |
| Weight | 55.12 Pounds |
| Capacity | 40,000 Grains |
Table of Contents
Best Smart Water Softener Reviews
1. Whirlpool WHES40E Water Softener
Are you thinking of upgrading your water softener unit? How about taking your pick from Whirlpool’s vast choices? You will undoubtedly find the perfect system for your home.
Take a look at this NSF-certified water softener. It is tested and proven to decrease hard water symptoms like stains, buildups in your plumbing line, faucets, and spots on dishes. Besides, it can reduce up to 10 ppm of clear water iron.
In detail, it is the ideal system for homes with one to six people. The dimensions of the unit are 19 inches by 18 inches by 47 ⅞ inches. All the parts are designed, engineered, and assembled in the US.
The installation process is relatively easy for homeowners. There is no need to call a professional to take care of it. The do-it-yourself kit comes with a step-by-step guide that will assist you in putting up the unit. Everything you need is already provided; thus, you can cut off costs from buying extra parts.
In addition, it is easy to clean and maintain. You don’t have to spend hours scrubbing the scaling on your pipes and appliances. A once every four months cleansing is enough to keep it running efficiently.
Furthermore, this water softener system will automatically calculate the amount of salt that is needed for regeneration. This means it only uses what is necessary so that you can reduce your salt and water usage. It will also notify you when it’s time to refill on the salt.
- NSF-certified
- Easy to install, clean and maintain
- An ideal system for large families
- Reduced salt and water usage
- The clips holding the connections a flimsy
2. Water2buy W2B800 Meter Water Softener
Having a water softener in your house will bring many benefits that you didn’t think about before. If you want to land an excellent unit, you can browse through Water2buy’s selection of impressive water softener systems.
Consider this durable water softener that is equipped with high-strength and resistant to corrosion fiberglass. Each unit comes with a manual, a US power supply, 28mm high flow connection fittings, pre-installed bypass valve and lever, and silicone. It is a complete set that is ready for installation with the aid of the easy-to-connect app.
The unit’s dimension is 225 by 500 by 1100 mm, which is perfect for basements and garages. The compact design makes it able to fit almost anywhere, even in small corners. When setting up, it also leaves enough space for the hose.
Another fantastic thing about this system is the automatic cleaning feature. There is no need to start a manual regeneration since the unit can perform it automatically when required. It usually runs at 3 AM when the water supply is not in use. Besides, the meter softener can measure the water usage connected to the automated regeneration process.
This system delivers a complete limescale-free water supply for the whole family. Whether you live in the city or have well-water, the unit is designed for thorough filtering while using less salt and water.
- Built to last
- Compact design
- Automatic self-cleaning feature
- Digital meter control
- The manual is not that helpful
3. GE Appliances GXSF30V Water Softener
Are you thinking of getting a softener unit? Stop thinking and start looking. GE Appliances has some of the best water softeners in the market today. Don’t miss out on their unique selections.
They have this unit that comes with easy-to-read electronic controls. It has a status light indicator that informs you of everything that is happening in the system unit. In addition, the days to empty feature will let you know when to refill the salt tank. You don’t have to guess and get to do it correctly on time.
Compared to other models from GE manufactured before 2009, you can save up to 20% less water with this water softener. In detail, it adjusts to the usage patterns of the household, so you can have a steady supply of soft water while keeping the excess water at a minimum.
The grain capacity of this system is at 30,400, while the salt capacity is 200 lbs. This delivers a 5100 GPG efficiency with a hardness removal of 95 GPG and iron removal of 7 ppm. It can significantly improve the water quality throughout your home so you can use cleaner dishes, less scale buildup, and save energy.
- Electronic controls
- Days to empty feature
- Uses less water
- 30,400-grain capacity
- There is a weird taste and smell other a few days after installation
4. Whirlpool WHESFC Pro Series Filter Hybrid
Finding a proper water system for your home could be frightening. But do not let it hinder you from making a sound choice. Whirlpool has suitable units that you can think about buying.
They have this 2-in-1 unit, a single-tank system, so you don’t have to purchase two separate tanks when you have this. In addition, it is designed and engineered for homes with 1 to 5 occupants. This makes it suitable for large families with more extensive water usage.
The superior hardness removal of this filter system is incredible. In detail, it has a 31,000-grain capacity and a hardness removal rating of 120 grains per gallon, which is above average. The unit can also reduce water contaminants such as sediments and remove the taste and odor of chlorine.
Another great thing about this model is there is no need to replace the filters. The unit can clean the filter on its own when needed. It is automatic, and you don’t have to worry about doing it manually.
This intelligent water softener operates with a demand-initiated regeneration technology. As a result, it can produce soft water while efficiently using salt. The system uses up to 25% less salt compared to other models in the brand. In addition, it monitors the water usage and regenerates only when necessary.
- Single-tank system
- Reduces water contaminant
- No need to replace the filter
- Efficiently uses salt
- No instruction on how much salt is needed
- No way to read the gallons per day usage
5. EcoPure EPHS Water Softener System
Improve the quality of your water with a softener system. Opt for only the most refined units as the one EcoPure has. You will indeed find a suitable water softener for your home.
This unit comes with salt-saving and auto-sensing technologies. These are exclusive features that determine the amount of salt and water needed for the regeneration process. This way, there is a significant reduction in water and salt usage.
Everything is easy to set up and maintain, from the single tank to the piping. It means this unit fits almost anywhere with its compact design. Besides, the programming controls and indicator lights will notify you when it’s time to clean the tanks and refill the salt. This makes it a handy and easy softening solution.
The system is NSF-certified which means it is tested and proven to lessen hard minerals from the water. In addition, it reduces harmful contaminants such as sediments, lead, chlorine, and more. This unit’s softening and filtration ability guarantee that your home will have access to a soft water supply.
With this water softening system, you can have an easier time cleaning buildups on your pipes, faucets, and showerhead. No more water pressure problems and stubborn scales; enjoy the benefits of having soft water.
- Salt saving technology
- Easy to set up and maintain
- Softening and filtration features
- Reduces potential scaling
- Not a direct replacement to all Kenmore water softeners
6. Tier1 WS-165-150 Everyday Water Softener
With the advancement of technology, we can now experience the advantages of having a digital water softener. Take a look at Tier1’s Everyday Series and take your pick from their selection of excellent units.
How about this high efficient digital water softener unit? It features a smart design with a unique and accurate turbine meter in the bypass valve. This way, you get extra four feet of floor space. The compact system can fit almost anywhere.
The digital meter control valve comes with an LCD display. The ease of operation and improved features make it a better option than some models in this brand. Besides, it can improve the water quality throughout your household with its 48,000 grains capacity.
Furthermore, it is an energy-efficient appliance. It makes your water supply soft while being cost-efficient. The traditional system comes with complete mechanical components from the brine tank to the drain line. Some homes might need to make separate purchases depending on their plumbing. It is necessary to check in advance, so no time is wasted.
- Smart design
- Digital meter control valve
- Energy efficient
- Complete mechanical components
- Challenging to install
7. GE Appliances GXMH31H Water Softener
Do you want a recommendation of the best water softener in the market? Start by looking at GE Appliances’ wide variety of units. There is no doubt that you’ll find a good one that is best suited for your home.
Consider this white water softener from GE. With this unit’s SmartSoft technology, you can rest assured that there will always be softened water. It tracks and records the household’s water-use pattern to notify you of everything occurring in the system.
Moreover, it has the custom select blending, which is an exclusive blending valve. This is a mechanism that enables users to select the softness of the water. In addition, the advanced filtration of this unit can reduce the chlorine taste and odor. Besides, the built-in water filtration has a 31,100-grain capacity.
The electronic controls of this unit are easy to use. It comes with days to empty status that indicates when it’s time to refill the salt tank. You don’t have to look and guess what most people do with other water softener systems. This also means that you can get ready and prepare the salt beforehand.
With the salt-saver, your home can lessen its salt consumption. If you want to go green and save your environment without dealing with too much brine, this system is a good choice.
- Custom select blending valve
- Electronic controls
- Advanced filtration
- Salt-saver
- Challenging to set-up
8. GE Appliances GXSHC40N SMART Water Softener
The GE smart water softening system is one of the most sought-after units in the market these days. Many have a wonderful experience with it, and there are good reasons why.
One example is this easy-to-use water softener that features up-front electronic controls and a status light indicator. The unit has a 40,000-grain capacity which can deliver a 5100 GPG efficiency. Moreover, its hardness removal is at 125 GPG, while the iron removal is 8 PPM.
This exceptional water softener can send you alerts on your smartphone. It includes water flow alerts, a possible leak, or a running faucet. A WiFi signal is required for setting this up at the unit’s location. With this, you can do a lot more and have access to other features.
The remote shutoff feature lets you turn off your water wherever you are in your home. It is handy, especially when you detect leaks and address the matter as soon as possible.
Furthermore, you can track the flow rate and water usage. There is a days-to-empty feature that gives you an idea when to refill the salt tank, no more second-guessing. The salt-saver will grant you less time in maintaining your system and reduce salt consumption.
- Easy to use
- Receive alerts
- Remote shutoff feature
- Consumption tracking
- Challenging to set up
What to Look for When Buying Smart Water Softener
Before making a final decision on a water softener brand and model, there are things that you should consider. These are crucial factors that will influence whether the unit you choose is suitable for your home or not. Take note of the following and let them help you decide.
Type
The first thing you should decide on when buying a water softener is the type of unit you want. There are several, including the dual-tank, salt-based ion exchange, electronic or magnetic, and salt-free.
If you prefer to go green and reduce water and salt usage, the last option is ideal. The magnetic type works as a descaler, while the salt-based uses resin beads for the ion exchange. Lastly, the dual-tank requires regular recharging for it to work efficiently.
When picking one, consider what might be the ideal unit for your home and how hard your area’s water supply is. If you are hesitant and want to get a professional’s advice, you can contact an expert plumber. They can give you a suitable water softener type that is best suited for your needs.
Capacity
The grain capacity of water softeners available today varies greatly. It means that some models can produce more soft water at a steadier rate compared to others. Another capacity that we should talk about is the resin and brine tank. Deciding on these will depend on the number of people in the household and the average water consumption. A home with more residents and extensive water usage would have to opt for a system with a larger capacity. This will also guarantee a longer time of use before you need a replacement.
Bypass Valve
The bypass valve is a switch that will stop the water supply from entering the softener while still allowing the water to go through the pipes and into the appliances. This is important and necessary when carrying out maintenance or when the unit is starting its regeneration cycle. Check if the unit you plan on buying comes with a bypass valve. You always have an option to purchase it separately when one is not included in the package.
Installation and Maintenance Costs
Purchasing a Springwell water softener, just like in any other model, does not mean only paying for the unit. There are installation and maintenance costs that one should consider. The price tag could vary depending on the manufacturer and the ease of installation of the appliance.
Some models are easier to set up compared to others that require a professional for the installation. In addition, there is the maintenance cost which will differ depending on the type of water softener. Make sure that when calculating your budget, including the installation and maintenance.
Certification
The top rated water softeners in the market are those that are certified by independent organizations. It could either be the Water Quality Association of the NSF International. While the certification is not a legal requirement, it is proof that the product meets the specific standard set by these organizations. Besides, it adds to the unit’s credibility; thus, it is not bad to pay attention to it when making your choice.
These are just some of the critical factors that should be on top of your list. There are other considerations, tiny details that will depend mainly on your preference and household. Take your time deciding; it is always better to land the best option you can have, even if it takes a while.
Why Do You Need a Smart Water Softener
A smart water softening system is a device that filters out minerals and sediments from hard water. This type of water comes with many domestic inconveniences. Hard water leaves traces on your dishes, causes build-ups on your faucet, showerhead, and pipes. Your skin and hair will feel dry and itchy. And the list of the problems caused by hard water goes on.
Hard water contains large amounts of magnesium and calcium ions as well as other particles and chemicals. A water softener deals with these contaminants and supplies your home with soft water. This appliance had become a necessity throughout the years, especially in areas with a hard water source. Improving the quality of our drinking water is always the most crucial component in our lives. Citric acid water softener, twin tank water softener, and so on are examples. I am confident that you will locate the most suitable water softener for each of your needs.
https://youtu.be/HuV6O9RKdaA
Conclusion
There are undoubtedly many things to consider when looking for the best smart water softener. Taking notes and making a checklist based on the factors we’ve mentioned is a valuable method that you can try. No need to look for research; we have everything you need right here.
Whether you are completely clueless or want to narrow down your choices, we hope that this buying guide and the product review have been helpful. Let us know what you think below. Share with us how you found a suitable water softener system for your home!
My work as a freelance copywriter allows me to work with Stephen later join Usawaterquality as a content producer. Our team works together to produce high-quality contents that cater to the needs of large companies and households.