Any household with a hard water supply knows the struggle that comes with it. The minerals in your water may not be toxic, but they can cause scaling in your plumbing, showerheads, and faucets. Besides, it affects your skin and hair health.
Getting rid of the elements that are making your water hard is the solution to all these problems. What you need is the best outdoor water softener. It can remove not only the hardness but also improve the quality of your water.
When choosing a unit to purchase, there are several things that you should consider. These factors can either make or break your choice and determine whether you get a suitable system for your household. Here we have three elements:
- Climate
The ideal climate for an outside water softener does not drop below freezing during the cold months and doesn’t get too hot during the summer. However, it doesn’t mean that you can’t have a water softener when the weather in your area is unpredictable. It is necessary to find a unit that operates well in your climate. Contact a local expert and ask for their opinion.
- Capacity
Not all water softener units have the same grain capacity since it varies depending on the brand and model. This way, people are not limited to only a single capacity system.
Deciding on the capacity will depend on the water usage of a household. The bigger is better principle does not apply to this one. Do not buy a larger unit just because you can because this will do more harm than good.
- Locality
If possible, buy your water softener from local stores. They know the local water supply, so they can help you find the optimal unit for your home. You can also inquire and learn more to operate the system efficiently.
These are only a peek of the complete list that we have in this article. There are several others that you should add to your checklist. But before that, take a look at these product reviews to get a general idea of what units are available in the market.
Table of Contents
Best Outdoor Water Softener Reviews
1. Whirlpool WHES40E Water Softener
There are many types of water softener that you can purchase online and in your local hardware stores. You can start looking from Whirlpool; they have some of the best units you can find.
Take a look at this NSF-certified water softener. It comes with a full year warranty of parts and labor. You can extend the unit to two years when you purchase three water softeners from the same brand.
This unit is built for larger households with one to six or more residents. In detail, it can eliminate up to 10 ppm of clear water iron. That is a bonus to its ability to lessen hard water symptoms in your water supply—no more build-ups on your faucets and plumbing. Your spotty dishes will be squeaky clean.
Another fantastic thing about this system is that it automatically calculates the salt and water the unit needs. It gives you an accurate number and time to regenerate, so you don’t have to guess. Besides, this feature can significantly reduce salt and water usage.
Cleaning and maintenance are also a breeze. It can be scheduled once every four months for an average-sized household. This will take care of the unit’s clean-up and the scale build-up on your pipes, showerheads, and faucets. It will ensure that the system will continue to work efficiently in delivering a soft water supply to your home too.
- NSF certified
- Ideal for larger households
- Automatically calculate salt and water usage
- Easy to clean
- Some instructions are unclear
2. On The Go Portable Water Softener
Are you still in search of the best portable water softener? No need to look far and wide when you have On The Go. They are one of the companies that manufacture some of the best water softeners in the market.
They have this double standard softener and conditioner. It is considered one of the largest compact RV softeners available in the market. Besides, it can produce twice the number of gallons standard models can deliver.
This unit is specifically designed and built for RVs and Marine models. It comes with a 16,000-grain capacity and can provide up to 1,600 gallons or 40 days supply of soft water. In detail, it can regenerate using two boxes of common table salt, and the process only lasts for less than 30 minutes. The resulting soft water is estimated to be 40% more efficiently soft compared to other units.
The compact and space-saver design makes it ideal to set up in corners and even in the tightest places. You can conveniently bring it with you wherever you go and enjoy soft water anytime. It also enables high flow rates with very minimal pressure drop.
Moreover, it comes with unique features such as an easy-to-carry handle on the top, a cap and plug option to prevent leakage, a wide opening for an effortless salt addition, high-grade premium resin, and other travel-friendly options.
- Double standard softener and conditioner
- Ideal for RVs
- Space-saver design
- Unique features
- Requires to wait longer for the regeneration
3. PRO+AQUA FBA-WS-P-16 Water Softener
An outdoor water softener had become a staple for every home with a hard water supply. It is a practical appliance that can remove the minerals causing problems to your pipes. Visit Pro+Aqua and browse their collection of water softener units.
Consider this durable water softener that is ideal for the outdoors. It uses high-grade NSF material. This includes the inner shell of the tank, which is reinforced with polyethylene and durable fiberglass wrap. So, you can expect it to keep on producing quality soft water over the years.
Moreover, the unit comes with premium features. The wide base offers stability, especially on uneven surfaces. It comes with high flow ports that minimize pressure drop and an additional adapter for backwash. In addition, the 16,000-grain capacity can offer up to 40 days or 2,000 gallons of softened water. Of course, it could vary depending on the level of water hardness and your home’s water usage.
The unit is basically ready to use. It comes with the standard hose connection, so it is effortless to connect from the faucet to the pressure washer, boat, or RV. Everything is fully assembled, charged, and ready to use—no need for any tools or electricity to operate.
This water softener is specifically designed to be durable and portable. It is a top capacity unit ideal for any outdoor person who wants to enjoy soft water wherever they are. The system can regenerate in under 30 minutes and provides 40% softer water than other units its size.
- Built tough
- Premium features
- Ready to use
- Top capacity
- It can only hold 2 pounds of salt
4. Whirlpool WHESFC Whole Home Filter
Are you looking to purchase your first water softener system? Then, you might be intimidated by the number of units available in the market. Worry no more; you can find the perfect one for your home with Whirlpool.
This 2-in-1 system is capable of eliminating minerals that make your water hard. In addition, it can remove harmful contaminants. The single tank can cater to a household with one to five residents—no need to buy two separate systems since this unit has it all.
Furthermore, this hybrid water softener filter comes with a 31,000-grain capacity. It has an above-average hardness removal as well as an excellent iron removal rating. These aids in lessening the reddish-brown stains on pipes, drains, and water appliances.
The filtration system does its job well. It reduces the presence of minerals, sediments, and chlorine odor from your water supply. Besides, it is not only for a faucet or two, but also for the water used throughout the household.
This smart water softener features a demand-initiated regeneration technology. As a result, it produces soft water depending on the water usage. This way, you can always have a smooth water supply whenever you need it. Furthermore, since it uses salt efficiently, it reduces salt cost throughout the lifespan of the system.
- 2-in-1 system
- Superior hardness removal
- Reduces water contaminant
- Uses salt efficiently
- It needs almost three hours of running the residual bleach
5. EcoPure EPHS Conditioner Water Softener
Are you experiencing hard water problems? It is time to get a water softener unit for your home and end all the discomforts that hard water is causing for everyone. Get your water softener from EcoPure; you will find one that suits your needs.
This NSF-certified unit is a softener and filtration system in one. It is tested and proven to reduce minerals that are making your water hard. In detail, it also eliminates harmful contaminants like sediments, lead, chlorine, iron, magnesium, and calcium.
Regardless of whether you are living in a rural or urban area, this system is ideal. It is designed for almost all types of sources with hard water. The water connection for this unit is the standard 1-inch NPT male pipe thread, so make sure to double-check what is available in your home.
The salt-saving technology of this system calculates the amount of salt and water needed for the regeneration process. This exclusive feature significantly reduces salt and water usage, which will benefit you in terms of cost in the long run. Plus, there is no need to guess when you must manually regenerate.
Furthermore, the programming controls of this water softener are intuitive. There is a light that indicates when the salt is low as well. You will appreciate that everything is easy to set up and maintain with its compact design. This unit can provide an effortless and convenient softening solution for any household.
- Softening and filtration in one
- Ideal for both urban and rural
- Salt saving technology
- Easy to set up and maintain
- Not compatible with Kenmore water softener
6. AFWFilters WS48-56SXT Water Softener
Investing in a water softener system might be the best decision you’ll make today. It’ll bring more benefits than you might think. AFWFilters offer some excellent units that you can check out.
Consider this water softener unit which is a complete set. It comes with high-capacity resin in a fiberglass resin tank. The brine tank features a safety float Noryl plastic bypass and metered controlled valve. The float is helpful to have as it prevents overfilling and works with the overflow drain to prevent any further water mess.
The 48,000-grain capacity system is capable of providing soft water to a large household. The digital metered feature makes it easier to keep track of salt and water usage. It will tell you when the system needs a salt refill or a regeneration. Besides, it ensures that everyone will continue to enjoy quality water.
With the regeneration process scheduled and only running when needed, you can save salt, water, and energy. In addition, the high capacity and long life of the resin efficiently reduces,eliminates hard water minerals, and contributes to saving costs in the long run.
This softening system uses an ion exchange process to soften water. It is an effective way to remove build-ups and extend the life of your plumbing. You can also see less scale build-ups in the showerhead and faucets as well as your home’s water appliance.
- Complete water softener
- Digital metered
- Regenerates only when needed
- Extends the life of your plumbing
- Installation takes hours
7. Tier1 WS-165-150 Everyday Water Softener
You can find everything you need to solve your problem with hard water in a water softener system. Unsure of where to start looking? Visit Tier1, and you will surely leave with the best-suited unit for your household.
This digital water softener features a smart design. It is equipped with a turbine meter in the bypass valve, which saves around four feet of floor space. This makes it ideal for small houses. In addition, the mineral tank and brine tank fit together comfortably in narrow places.
Moreover, the LCD display paired with improved features makes the unit easy to navigate and control. As a result, it is effortless to get it started and supply the whole house with quality soft water. It can help you save money in the long run because the system is energy efficient.
The filtering ability of this unit is excellent. It is capable of preventing limescale buildup on your plumbing lime, showerheads, and faucets. You can also enjoy the benefits of soft water, from a more accessible cleaning session to having soft and supple skin.
This unit is a complete system. Each set comes with a control valve, pre-filled mineral tank, brine tank and tubing, drain line, resin, and mechanical components. Everything you need for a standard installation is included. But if your home plumbing uses PEX or CPVC, you might need compression fittings.
- Smart design
- Ease of operation
- Energy efficient
- Complete system
- Requires some modifications for homes with ¾” connections
8. On The Go OTG4-StdSoft Water Softener
The best solution to hard water is a water softener. There are many options in the market and if you want to land a suitable unit, get them from On The Go.
They have this standard softener that you can bring with you wherever you go. The unit can be carried easily with a top handle and compact design. You can save a lot of space with this small unit that can fit into corners. There is also a large opening for an effortless and mess-free salt addition.
This unit is suitable for RV and Marine models. In detail, it features a quick and easy regeneration process with a fast hook up; you can get it running and supplying soft water in a matter of minutes. In addition, the 8,000-grain capacity can regenerate in 15 minutes with only a box of common table salt.
The system can provide up to 20 days of soft water. Besides, it allows high flow rates with minimal drop in pressure. Wherever you plan to go outdoors, you can have access to soft water; no scale build-up, foul taste and odor, rust stains, and other problems that are linked to hard water. You can extend the life of your water appliances and increase the lathering properties of your soaps and detergents as well.
- Easy to carry
- Compact size
- Built for RVs
- Provides soft water
- A bit heavy
What to Look for When Buying Outdoor Water Softener
A suitable water softener unit does not only do an excellent job in drawing minerals out of your water supply. There are other factors that one should consider before making a purchase.
It could be a daunting process but not impossible. By understanding your needs and matching them with the things we have listed below, you can make an informed decision.
Build Quality
It is crucial to have an outdoor water softener unit with a strong build quality. There are many elements that they should weather through. Make sure that the one you are eyeing is specially designed to be situated outside. Otherwise, you will be left with a damaged water softener in a matter of months.
Maintainability
Opt for a system with parts that are easily accessible and replaceable. This will make it hassle-free to buy replacements from local hardware stores. It will do you a great deal of favor and prevent you from buying an entirely new unit that costs more than purchasing replacement parts.
Brand
When looking at brands, check for their credibility by knowing how long they have been in the market. It will be proof of how many people believed in their products. In addition, older brands tend to be more reliable since they’ve been producing water softeners longer.
You can expect their current products to be better after years of continuous improvement. But there are also newer brands that deliver high-quality units. It is crucial to decide after analyzing between brands.
Climate
When setting up a water softener outside, make sure that the climate doesn’t drop below freezing or is too hot. If your local weather is not suited for installing a unit outside, you can always pick an area with a shade or bury it underground. Talk with your local hardware stores to see which system is the best for your household, considering how varied the weather can be.
Cover and Enclosure
In addition to the previous factor, an outdoor water softener enclosure works best in protecting your unit. This will ensure that whatever the weather outside is, your system is safe and sound. There are tons of options in the market depending on the type and quality; expect to spend between $50 to $150. Take into consideration the size of the unit before buying an enclosure or cover.
We covered some of the most critical and essential elements that you need to carefully consider before deciding on a water softener system. Take note of these, and the next time you go hunting for a unit that is best suited for your home, don’t forget to bring the list with you.
Can You Put a Water Softener Outside
Placing a water softener outside or in the garage is possible, but you expose it to dangerous environments. The majority of manufacturers designed their water softeners to be capable of bearing harsh elements. This allows the systems to survive and operate pretty well. But not all water softeners are made to endure such conditions.
Whether or not your unit can be placed outside will depend on its build quality. While it is possible to minimize its exposure to hazardous elements, it can only go as far as it allows. It is also your decision to risk installing your unit outdoors.
How Do I Protect My Outside Water Softener
An outdoor water softener is designed better to withstand the harsh environment outside your home. But one should not rely solely on this; thus, outdoor water softener cover is often purchased alongside the unit.
This can preserve the appliance from dust and debris. If you want to protect the system from the sunlight or the cold, a water softener for outside cabinets or housing is the best option. This will provide protection from hazardous weather.
Conclusion
The process of buying the best outdoor water softener involves a lot of research and contemplation. However, if you want to efficiently address your home’s hard water supply, it is necessary to find a high-quality unit that can cater to all the water problems you have.
Reading reviews and taking note of the crucial factors to consider can significantly increase your chances of landing a decent outdoor water softener system. In addition, you should include your preferences and water usage for a sound decision. We hope that with all the information we provided you, you can purchase a unit that is best suited for your household.
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.