Keith Martin

Are you looking for the best way to get clean tap water?

Then look no further than a reverse osmosis (RO) system. It’s a nifty water filtration solution that combats most water contamination issues found in the main supply line. Installing these units provides you with a fresh supply of clean and healthy water at all times. We highly recommend the Waterdrop Filter System for its capabilities and ease of installation.

#1 Overall

• Waterdrop Undersink Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System

• 
  380 Reviews
  
  
  
• 
  Removes up to 98-percent of chemicals, heavy metals, sediment, and other contaminants then adds good minerals
  
  Modular all-in-one filter design for easy maintenance
  
  Comes with a complete DIY-friendly installation kit
  
  EPA approved
  
• 
  More expensive than most systems
  
  Requires basic plumbing tools like wrenches and teflon tape
  

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Runner Up

• Aquasana OptimH2O Reverse Osmosis Filter

• 
  249 Reviews
  
  
  
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  Removes solids smaller than 1 micron to purify drinking water
  
  Introduces calcium, potassium and magnesium into purified water to remineralise it
  
  Reduces over 74 contaminants, metals, pharmaceuticals and other chemicals
  
  Targets chlorine and ammonia via carbon filtration
  
• 
  Bulky system requires space
  
  Tank needs to be maintained and kept clean
  

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Budget Pick

• Whirlpool WHER25 Reverse Osmosis Filtration System

• 
  172 Reviews
  
  
  
• 
  Cheapest option in the recommended list
  
  Eradicates traces of chlorine, sediments and other impurities from tap water
  
  Small filtration system saves space
  
  Ultra-Ease Filtration Replacement features for hassle-free changes
  
• 
  Durability complaints by some users
  
  Lower filtration capacity compared to other systems
  

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Learn more about our team of water experts

Unlike, other water filtering systems, you can fit this unit under the sink to maintain your kitchen’s aesthetic appeal. They’re also more efficient, cost-effective, and require minimum maintenance.  With all these benefits you won’t have to look for costly fixes.

It sounds like a great investment, doesn’t it?

If you agree, then continue reading the rest of the guide to find out everything about the reverse osmosis system. We’ve also disclosed the names of the best reverse osmosis systems available in the market today. Let’s begin!

The Basics: What Is a Reverse Osmosis System?

Reverse osmosis is a system that uses the osmosis process to purify your water. When water enters the reverse osmosis tank, it goes through special semi permeable membranes. These membranes use osmosis to filter out impurities, solid substances, harmful chemicals, and minerals from the water.  It’s a safe and hygienic way to improve the water quality of your house.

Reverse osmosis units can be fitted inside the kitchen sink cabinet and over-the-countertop. Larger systems can be hooked to the main supply line to provide filtered water to the whole house.

Should Everyone Buy a Reverse Osmosis Water System?

In the modern era, there is no excuse for you to drink unsanitary water and risk contracting water-borne diseases. Reverse osmosis systems are considered as a necessary precaution against unseen foreign bodies that are lingering in the water supply.

It’s also a great way to fix water issues in your municipal supply line and well water respectively.

With an RO system you get:

• Safe drinkable water from your tap.
• Clean water to wash the dishes and fresh produce
• Avoid exposure to bacterial infection caused by dirty water
• Sterilized water to wash baby bottles and utensils
• Lower energy costs

& a lot more The best part is that reverse osmosis systems cost don’t exceed your budget. So it feels like an economical investment compared to other water treatment options.

Best Reverse Osmosis Filtration System on the Market  

Waterdrop Reverse Osmosis Water Filter

The Waterdrop water filter is a powerhouse that offers the benefits of reverse osmosis, Claryum® Technology and remineralization. It filters 5 times more contaminants than other water filters and claims to remove 88 substances in water, which includes chemicals, heavy metals and pesticides. It’s an NSF certified Benzene water filter, which means you can rely on it for pure and hydrating water. The activated carbon filters the water finely, the catalytic carbon is an ammonia disinfectant, the absolute sub-micron filtration captures chlorine resistant cysts and finally, remineralization gives you clean and tasty drinking water, which makes this the best reverse osmosis filter for Benzene.

As mentioned earlier, reverse osmosis water filters for fluoride are highly-effective. They are the easiest way to get crystal clear water that tastes great and has zero fluoride residues. So if you’re on the lookout for an RO system for fluoridated water then you should choose OptimH2O Reverse Osmosis + Claryum.

Why? This premium quality filtration unit merges the efficiency of reverse osmosis process with high tech features. These special features ensure that every impurity from fluoride to microorganisms like bacteria and viruses are removed.  The best part is that it removes 97% fluoride without demineralizing the water. In other words, your drinking water will contain the good minerals you need to keep you healthy and safe.

The only issue you’ll face is during the installation process as it requires an expert. Besides this, environmentally-conscious families won’t like the fact that the system isn’t water efficient.

The Pros:

• Has been tested and proven to remove 5 times more contaminants than other reverse osmosis water filters
• Offers remineralization of water, which restores the right amount of potassium, magnesium and calcium in it for optimally pH balanced water and alkalinity
• The selective Claryum® filtration removes 74 contaminants from water
• The RO process filters contaminants smaller than one micron
• The combination of reverse osmosis, Claryum® Technology and remineralization offers a reliable flow rate
• Ideal under sink fluoride water filter for families big and small
• Ultra-efficient RO system to purify your dirty tap water
• It removes 95% of fluoride and adds back lost minerals to improve water quality  
• Regulates a steady water flow without any blockages
• User-friendly replacement and maintenance process
• NSF certified fluoride water filter

The Cons:

• Requires professional installation
• Water wastage is more than most water filter systems

Watts Premier 531417 Reverse Osmosis Pure Plus

Watts Premier 531417 RO Pure Plus is an excellent water treatment plant. The slim design ensures that it fits under the sink effortlessly. This feature makes it an ideal device for a small household.  The installation process itself is pretty simple too, which is always a bonus.

What about performance? For a unit that costs less than $200, it works remarkably well. The system supports a 4 stage filtration process to purify the water. The unit includes carbon filters, specialized semi permeable membrane for sediments, GDP filters, and post-carbon filters. The help removes dirt and large particles, lead, rust and other anomalies from your water line.

You can expect to get on-demand crystal clear water whenever you use the RO faucet.

Another advantage of this system is that the filters are easy to replace. You simply have to press the filter, twist it, and then pull. It’s also got a shut-off valve that makes sure that the replacement process is mess-free.

Overall, Watts Premier 531417 RO Pure Plus is a worthwhile purchase for small homes. It saves space, cleans water, and doesn’t require too much maintenance. The only setback is that some users might feel that the storage tank is insufficient. In that case, you should look for a system that accommodates your storage requirements.

Pros

• Simple installation process
• Easy to maintain
• Adequate 4 stage filtration system
• Filters well and municipal supply water
• Affordable unit
• Slim design fits easily under the sink
• Removes lead and rust along with other impurities
• Easy to replace filters

Cons

• Limited water storage capacity

APEC Water System RO-90

APEC Water System RO-90 is an environmentally-friendly product. It’s no wonder that consumers refer to it as a top-tier model.  The system is doable for the long haul and requires filter replacement every 6-12 months depending on your usage. Compared to standard models this system appears to be more durable.

The device features a multi-layered filtration process that delivers a fantastic performance. Not only does it clear out the impurities, but it maximizes its results with the double carbon blocks fitted inside. It’s also got a unique coconut shell refining carbon that enhances the taste.

Is it worth the price? APEC Water System RO-90 may not have a remineralization filter, but it’s still an excellent fixture for your home. The water efficiency, eco-friendly features, and refined filtration technique make it worth the price ($229).

Pros

• 5-stage filtration process for thorough water purification
• It features double carbon blocks to optimize performance
• Removes 99% impurities in your water
• Minimum leaks, water pressure issues, and other common issues
• Installation kit includes a rust-resistant stylish chrome-base faucet
• Eco-friendly coconut filter for the last stage
• Large water storage capacity (4 gallons)
• Comes with a complete kit to simplify the installation process
• FDA certified

Cons

• Pricier than some water treatment plants
• The system doesn’t include a remineralization tank

Express Reverse RO5DX Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System

Express Reverse RO5DX Water Filter System is an excellent filtration system with a 10-stage process. The small design ensures that it can be discreetly fitted inside the kitchen cabinet. It also comes at an affordable price without compromising efficiency. This fact makes it an ideal purchase for those on a budget.

How well does it perform? We give it a 10/10 on functionality due to its superior multi-staged filtration process. The mechanism tackles sediments, toxic chemicals, odors, and metallic tastes with ease. Plus, the alkaline filtration helps replenish its mineral content and neutralize its pH level. The latter helps remove the acidic taste that might be present in your water.

As a consequence, you get access to freshly cleaned water with no traces of unclean residue. It also mineralizes the water to ensure that your drinking water is high in antioxidants that keep your body healthy and active.

As far as construction is concerned, this model is fitted with lead and BPA-free parts that prevent corrosion. Besides this, there is the double seal for filters and a no-leak valve that minimizes water wastage. The emergency valve shuts down the system automatically whenever leakage occurs.

Overall, it’s a reliable system that’s easy to connect with its DIY-friendly construction and feed adapter. You might, however, have to install it carefully or else it’s prone to leak until all loose ends are secure. Another disadvantage is that you need to replace the filters more frequently than other brands.

Pros

• Advanced 10-stage filtration process to purify contaminated water
• Alkaline filtration system to regulate the water’s pH level
• Provides healthy mineral water that’s rich in antioxidants
• Quick Connect system that’s easy to install and maintain
• Double-sealed filters for utmost protection
• Leak Stop Valve prevents leakage
• Fast flow rate
• Complete installation kit with spare replacement filters
• Affordable price (less than $200)

Cons

• Leakage issues during the installation process

Filters need frequent replacement

iSpring RCC7 Reverse Osmosis System

Compact, efficient, long-lasting–these are the qualities that everyone wants from their RO system.

Fortunately, iSpring promises to deliver just that, with its superior refine multilayered mechanism. You can expect it to eradicate all kinds of harmful chemicals, odors, and bacteria at the end of the process. So you get access to clean drinkable water at the end of the 5-stage process.

The system is built with tried and tested components that maximize performance. The well-crafted design works ceaselessly for months with no apparent issues. It only requires routine cleaning which will be indicated when its transparent housing looks dirty. Another plus point is its leak blocker that eliminates leakage issues you’d associate with standard water filters.

The overall construction is safe and secure, and you can set it up without any help. You can fit in under the kitchen cabinet for easy access and it comes with a European style faucet for aesthetic appeal.

 At $186, this looks like an affordable investment for high-quality water supply. The only drawback is that the water flow rate isn’t that great. So you may face problems with water pressure from time to time.

However, you can resolve that issue with professional assistance.

Pros

• Solid construction assures durability
• Comes with a complete installation set
• The 5-stage filtration process removes all known anomalies from your tap water
• Filters have 6 months-3 years warranty depending on their function
• Package includes a stylish lead-free RO faucet
• Features a leak blocker and feed adapter to minimize common problems
• Transparent housing makes cleaning it hassle-free
• Affordable unit

Cons

• Slower water flow rate

Pelican Pro 6-Stage Under Counter Top Water Reverse Osmosis System

Are you looking for an RO system for your dorm or studio apartment?

If you’ve got limited space then Pelican Pro 6-Stage Under Countertop RO is right for you. The unit’s compact design will ensure that it fits in tight spaces without issues. The system features a seamless end-to-end process that filters, purifies, and adds minerals to your water. At the end of which, you get fresh mineral water that’s free from any form of contamination. Plus, it tastes great too.

The best part is that this clever unit is capable of filtering 50 gallons per day. This characteristic ensures that that tank remains filled at all times. Additionally, the water-sensitive system minimizes water consumption by 50% more than traditional units.

Apart from this, the product comes with an LED indicator light that tells you when the filter needs replacement. It’s also got color coded fittings that simplify the installation and servicing process.

The only issue is that the product comes with a hefty price tag (starting from $350). This may seem a bit much for consumers on a budget.

Pros

• Compact size helps save space
• High-efficiency 6 step water purification processes
• Adds back lost minerals (magnesium and calcium) to make filtered water healthier
• Filters approximately 50 gallons per day
• Great water flow rate
• Easy to maintain
• It reduces water wastage up to 50% more than regular systems

Cons

• Pricey purchase
• Some users complained about leaks

Whirlpool Wher25 Reverse Osmosis System

Are you looking for an affordable option?

At only $107, Whirlpool Wher25 is the best money can buy. The system may not come with bells and whistles associated with modern filters but manages to serve you well. The compact unit is designed to save space for smaller homes. It’s also got an installation kit that allows you to set up the unit without calling a plumber.

The system features a highly-efficient three phase filtration system that removes all possible anomalies. Thus, it provides you with fresh, clean water from the kitchen sink. The dechlorination process ensures that the water is tasteless, odorless, and suitable for drinking,

What’s more? The filter has an EZ-Change indicator light that flashes whenever the filter is dirty. Typically, it takes 6 months for that to happen. Plus, the easy ‘twist and pull’ removal process makes it easier for you to change the filters.

The only setback is that its size slows the filtration process down.

Pros

• Small filtration system to saves space
• Ultra-Ease Filtration Replacement features for hassle-free changes
• Eradicates traces of chlorine, sediments and other impurities from tap water
• Simple 3-step filtration process for better results
• Functional for wells and municipal water supply
• EPA approved
• Budget-friendly unit

Cons

• Inadequate filtration capacity
• Durability complaints by some users

Home Master TMHP HydroPerfection Undersink Reverse Osmosis System

Are you planning to place the RO tank under the sink?

The Home Master HydroPerfection Undersink Reverse Osmosis System is your best bet. The latest edition to their RO family hopes to resolve issues you may have with a traditional design. This model comes in a modular fit that is easy to maintain throughout the year.

What about performance? The innovative system boasts to purify your water with a 9-step filtration system. This includes basic filtration, sterilization, remineralization, and other chemical-free treatment. As a result, you get safe drinkable water each time you turn the RO faucet.

Adding to this is a UV-light sterilization technique that kills off 99% of the harmful microorganisms found in your water supply. It’s also got a water sensible feature that conserves water usage and keeps wastage to a minimum.

Best of all, the upgraded design helps reduce leakage, low water pressure, and other system issues. It’s certainly a solid investment that will work well for both well water and city water. You just have to pay a few extra bucks for it compared to other units.

Pros

• Advanced filtration process to provide you clean water.
• Modular all-in-one filter design for easy maintenance
• Minimum water wastage
• Comes with a complete DIY-friendly installation kit
• UV-light sterilization system to purify water
• EPA approved

Cons

• Costly purchase
• You may face issues during the initial fitting

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The Benefits: Why Do You Need A Reverse Osmosis System?

Let’s be honest, whether you live in the city or outside, fresh water is still a luxury.  Most of the supply lines provide you with contaminated water that is unclean and smells funky. These characteristics make the water unusable for daily use let alone drinking.

Typically, you solve this issue by using bottled water for drinking but that just adds to your household budget. Plus, the problem doesn’t end here!

You would like to have clean water to do the rest of the household chores too. This includes everything from washing the dishes, cleaning the house, watering the plants to doing laundry. Which means you’ll need gallons and gallons of clean water from an external resource.

At this rate, it’s a lot easier to install an reverse osmosis system to resolve this issue instead of making elaborate changes in the plumbing line.

Here are all the reasons why reverse osmosis systems are a lifesaver:

1. Reverse Osmosis is the Best Alternative for Bottled Water

Plastic isn’t that fantastic.

In this green revolution, plastics are proactively being removed from our lives. So it’s evident that most households are looking for an eco-friendly substitute for bottled water. You can always opt for glass bottles, stainless steel bottles, etc for storage. However, you still need store-bought water for drinking purposes and those guys are still using plastic bottles.

This is where reverse osmosis systems come in handy.

It provides you with safe drinking water that:

• Is odorless
• Tastes great
• Doesn’t have any impurities or bacteria inside
• Contains minerals and antioxidants that improve your health

The biggest advantage is that this fixture significantly reduces your usage of plastic. This, in turn, has a positive impact on the environment.

In other words, switching to a reverse osmosis faucet over bottled water paves the path for an eco-friendly lifestyle.

2. Improves Water Quality in the Kitchen

Kitchens are the heart of the house.

Typically, you do more than half of your household chores in the kitchen. You use the kitchen sink to clean dishes, wash fruits and veggies, and numerous other reasons. You might also need the tap water for cooking pasta, making tea, and whatnot.

So if there something wrong in your pipeline, then it’s going to have an impact on all these daily tasks. You don’t want to take that risk. Not only is it a potential threat to your health, but it’s a problem away from a hefty maintenance bill.

Fortunately, advanced reverse osmosis systems are built for this scenario.

Most RO systems will prevent:

• Toxic substances from corroding your kitchen utensils.
• Impurities from contaminating your food.
• You from contracting water-borne diseases (e.g. diarrhea and cholera)

In short, you combat all several different water problems with a single unit. It truly is the safest way to avoid your kitchen faucet from becoming a health hazard.

3. Reverse Osmosis Systems are Safe for Everyone

Are you looking for a water treatment that’s safe for everyone?

It’s no hidden secret that infants and elderly family members have weak immune systems. The same issue arises when someone is sick or suffering from a chronic ailment.  This means that they are more likely to get sick when they drink or use unclean water.

Then reverse osmosis systems are a great option to avoid this.

How? That’s because the device:

• Lowers sodium levels
• Removes lead
• Filters out sediments and large particles
• Eradicates the presence of chlorine and other chemicals

Overall, it eliminates all plausible substances that could harm your health.  Additionally, most system feature mineralization process that let good mineral content to enter the water. As a result, the filtered water helps improves your health while keeping it away from unsafe substances.

4. Reverse Osmosis Systems are Easy on the Wallet

How much does a reverse osmosis system cost?

The initial cost of the RO tanks may vary depending on its size, construction, features, and brand. However, we’ve estimated the general price range to be around $150-500. This might seem like too much for budget-conscious folks who’d prefer a cheaper solution.

However, the long-term benefits of reverse osmosis systems compensate for their initial price.

That’s because they:

• Lower your energy bills
• Reduce your water wastage
• Prevent frequent visits to the doctor
•  Minimize maintenance costs
• Don’t require add-ons

Moreover, their lifetime warranty is longer than those short-term solutions. All these things make it a valuable investment for your home.

The Mechanism: How Do Reverse Osmosis Systems Work?

Do you remember learning about osmosis in science?

Well, reverse osmosis systems reengineer the osmosis process by forcing the large particles and substances (impurities) to move in the opposite direction.  So instead of forming a high concentrated solution, they form a lower one aka purified water. Think of the filter as a strainer that removes the unseen anomalies from your water.

As a result, the semi permeable membrane permits the clean water to pass through while the contaminated solution is drained out.

Here’s a little glimpse of how the reverse osmosis membrane works:

Now, this is only one section of the filtration system. Typically, most reverse osmosis systems have numerous filters that deal with specific contaminants. The average filtration tank is equipped with three filters, so we’ll be using this as the basis of our explanation.

 Here’s a breakdown of what’s happening inside your RO system:

1. Pre-Filtration

In the first stage, the water goes through a sediment filter. The filter removes larger residue, dissolved solids, and other big molecules from the water. This ensures that the reverse osmosis process faces no clogs and obstructions due to the larger sediments.

It also preserves the specialized membranes to enhance its longevity.

2. Filtration

After the sediments are removed the water is pushed through the semi-permeable membrane with the help of high water pressure. As explained earlier, the membrane prevents the contaminated particles from passing through.

In this way, the water molecules are separated from the impurities.

An efficient reverse osmosis system removes chlorine, calcium, sodium and other harmful substances (e.g. bacteria, and viruses) from moving along. Furthermore, most reverse osmosis processes also eradicate lead and rust particles too.

3. Post-Filtration

The third phase is a second round of filtration that deals with any leftover residue that the last step may have missed.  After this, the water flows into the storage tank and is kept there until you turn the faucet.

The storage tank contains an in-line carbon filter that gets rid of odors and flavors that may have entered the water from the tank/pipes. Besides this, many reverse osmosis models have a remineralization filter that adds essential minerals to the purified water. This ensures that you have access to As a result, you get fresh and healthy water each time you use the faucet.

The Installation: How Do You Install a Reverse Osmosis System?

Are you ready to install your reverse osmosis system?

The great thing is that most of the products on this guide can be installed without professional help. You just need the right supplies and basic plumbing skills to hook up your device. Additionally, many of these models have color-coded connectors that you can attach without using advanced tools.

The only thing that you need to be sure of is whether or not your unit will fit in the desired location. That’s why you should try to measure the dimensions of that spot against the tank beforehand.

Does it have to be installed under the sink?

Nope. It’s not necessary to follow the standard procedure. If you don’t have enough space under the sink, then you can get a portable system or something that is designed for the whole house.

For the second option, you can install that unit in the basement, a utility room, or garage.

Here are some tips to help you pick the right spot:

• Always install the system on a cold water line.
• It should be connected to the downstream of other water treatment appliances (e.g, inline water filter or water softener).
• Never install it in areas where the system might freeze.
• You might need a delivery pump if you plan to run a water line to the kitchen sink.

That’s it! You can always seek advice from a plumber or customer support if you’re having second doubts about the installation place.

Now that we’ve cleared that out, let’s answer the main question.

How do you install the system?

For convenience, we’ve only listed the steps required to install it under the sink. You should probably take help from the product manual to tally the steps for accuracy.

Here’s a rundown of what you need to do to install the RO system:

1. Pre-Installation

1. Gather the supplies and double check if the product came with all the required parts. You don’t want to stop the process midway due to a missing piece.
2. Shut down the cold water feed that’s connected to the kitchen faucet.
3. Next, drill a hole for the RO faucet on the sink.  (this might not be required for sinks that already have an extra hole for such situations)
4. Mount the RO tap by putting the stem through the hole. Then secure it at the bottom with the help of a quick connect fitting.

Pro tip: Do check with your superintendent or landlord if you’re allowed to hook up an additional tap on the sink. They might suggest installing an air gap with the faucet.

2. Installation

• Install the T-connector under the sink.
• Connect the cold water line by assembling a saddle valve clamp on it. Adjust the clamp to fit properly with the main pipeline. Then tighten the bolt so to secure the connection.
•  Place your RO system and its water storage tank under the sink. You will have to drill pilot holes in the cabinet wall to mount it there.
• Once mounted use the color coded connectors to link-up the filtration system. Each manufacturer has different guidelines to do this. So make sure that you read their instructions clearly. The main idea is to connect the system to the saddle valve, faucet, drain pipe, and storage tank respectively.
• After this, make sure that all the fittings are tight and secure. Otherwise, the loose ends may cause a leakage problem.  

Pro tip: A good way to make sure that you’ve hooked up the system properly is by checking if you’ve used all the main parts. If you have left off anything, then it’s a clear indication that you’ve missed out a step. You should go through the manual again to complete the installation process before you test the system.

3. Trial Run
In the end, you should turn on the water supply and then start the system. This might require you to plug the reverse osmosis system up if the filtration unit comes with UV filters. Then while the system is running you should examine the unit and water line for leaks or water flow issues.

Test the water by using the reverse osmosis faucet to make sure that everything is working properly.

Lastly, drain the system twice or thrice before you start using it. This ensures that the interiors are washed properly and it also gives you an idea of how well the system works.

That’s it!

Your reverse osmosis system is ready for use.

To sum up reverse osmosis systems…

Long story short, reverse osmosis systems are a cost-effective way to combat common contamination problems in your tap water. The filters we’ve reviewed are capable of dealing with both municipal water supply issues and water well anomalies too. That means you can use the same system if you ever plan to move.

All in all, the reverse osmosis systems are hassle-free installations that work in multiple conditions. Some of them come with built-in UV filtration fixtures that sterilize your water. Thus, it makes these devices a solid investment for anyone who is looking for an on-demand clean tap water supply.

We’ve already listed the best reverse osmosis systems available in the market. So all you have to do is find one that matches your needs and make the purchase.

So which RO will you choose?

Watch this space for more reviews and guides on how to improve the water quality of your home.

Is your kitchen sink splattered with stains? Does the tap water taste weird? Do the soap scums linger behind despite the rigorous washing? These are clear signs of hard water that needs to be addressed with a water softener for the sake of your health and your home. After extensive review, the Aquasure Water Softener is the best available water softener on the market.

Best Overall

• Aquasure Harmony Water Softener

• 
  1,263 Reviews
  
  
  
• 
  Super-efficient filtering system with double backwash mode
  
  Made from fiberglass-lined polyethylene to prevent corrosion
  
  Multiple cleaning and regeneration options for flexibility
  
  5 year warranty
  
• 
  The programming guide should be more comprehensive
  
  More expensive than GE brand but features higher grain count
  

 Check Price Now

Runner-Up

• Fleck 5600SXT Water Softener

• 
  261 Reviews
  
  
  
• 
  Adjustable settings help control water consumption rate
  
  Consistent water flow rate of 12 GPM
  
  Metered filtration system enhances its accuracy
  
• 
  The installation process is tedious
  
  It doesn’t come with a complete kit
  

 Check Price Now

Budget Pick

• Home Master Water Softener

• 
  77 Reviews
  
  
  
• 
  Keeps the water pressure regulated while cleansing the water
  
  95% purification guaranteed
  
  Tackles minerals, rust, and sediment
  
  Provides the whole house with odorless and tasteless water
  
• 
  Bulkier than most units
  
  Not suitable for all city water sources
  

 Check Price Now

Why Trust Waterful.org?

Our water scientists and engineers spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and we never accept free products from manufacturers .

Learn more about our team of water experts

These classic signs indicate that your water still contains mineral deposits (calcium and magnesium) inside it. That means, sooner or later, you’re going to be facing lots of plumbing problems. Not to mention the fact that hard water causes skin dryness and hair fall issues.

While it’s not a health concern, hard water brings it with a list of difficulties that’ll increase if you don’t install a water softener soon. The water conditioner helps remove the ‘hardness’ out of the water. Subsequently, it eliminates the issues that crop up when you use hard water at home.

Here’s everything you need to know to purchase the right water softener for your home:

The Basics: What Is a Water Softener?

Water softeners are a type of water conditioner that gets rid of hard water minerals present inside your tap water. It’s equipped with a filtration system that eradicated these impurities whenever the hard water flows into the tank.

As a result, the water flowing out of the system doesn’t have any mineral deposits inside. Some water softeners are fitted with a fluoride filter and dechlorinator too. It ensures that the water you get from the tap is free from all anomalies.

Moreover, there are different water conditioners present out there. For example salt based water conditioners, citric acid water conditioners, and salt free water conditioners.

Should Everyone Buy a Water Softener?

First, you should look for clues that indicate that you’ve got hard water in the plumbing lines. Then you should test it for mineral content. This will help you figure out how big the issue is and what countermeasures you’ll have to take to fix it.

Here are some common signs of the presence of hard water:

• Tap water has a metallic taste.
•  Limescale build-up in your pipes and around your faucets.
• Traces of soapsuds present near the drains and shower walls.
• It’s difficult to wash off the soapy residue from your hands.
• Your skin feels dry and irritated after a shower.
• Your hair starts looking dull and limp.

Homeowners should conduct a hard water test once they start noticing these signs. There are two ways to go about this:

1. Use a DIY water hardness test kit to check for abnormalities.
2. Send a sample of your tap water to a laboratory to test for mineral content.

The first option is pretty basic; the change in strip color will only confirm that the plumbing supply has hard water present. Whereas, the laboratory test will give you a detailed overview of all the impurities present inside the water.

In both cases, if the results are positive then you should install a water conditioner.

Best Water Softener on the Market  

Aquasure Water Softener AS-HS48D

Aquasure Harmony Series is a popular choice for homeowners. The AS-HS48D is a highly efficient unit that manages to treat up to 48000 grains of hardness. The small water softener comes with all the features required to handle 2-4 bathrooms.

For starters, the filtration system is top-notch and has a 12 GPM flow rate. It manages to get rid of the mineral deposits quite easily. Additionally, the corrosion-free design made from fiber-glass and polyethylene ensures durability.

It’s got a digital console that helps you to control the backwash cycle. It’s got numerous options that tackle cleaning, regeneration, and a lot more. The programming is a bit complex, but the device works like a dream once you get the hang of it. Plus, the versatility ensures that the system minimizes wastage of water.

It’s precise, accurate, and doable–which makes it a perfect fit for a medium-sized household.

Pros:

• A sleek and stylish design.
• Super-efficient filtering system with double backwash mode.
• An adequate flow rate of 12 GPM.
• The digital control helps conserve water.
• Made from fiberglass-lined polyethylene to prevent corrosion.
• Multiple cleaning and regeneration options for flexibility.
• 5 year warranty

Cons

• The programming guide should be more comprehensive.
• Slightly pricey ($549)

Fleck 5600SXT Water Softener

A salt free water softener, Fleck 5600SXT is another best seller. The device is quite similar to the Aquasure Harmony Series in terms of features.

The unit has got a flow rate of 12 GPM, and a digitally monitored filtration system. You can easily change the filtration setting as per your needs and monitor the water consumption accurately. The characteristic makes it easier for homeowners to conserve water by controlling the process.

The unit converts hard water into soft water by lowering its mineral content. Along with magnesium and calcium, it reduces an adequate amount of iron too. The biggest advantage of this device is that it’s compatible with other filtration tanks. That means you can connect it to other advance filtration systems to enhance the water quality.

 It can also reduce an adequate amount of iron deposits found in your water supply. The best part is that this device is compatible with other filtration tanks.

Overall, it’s an efficient unit that manages the needs of a family of four living in a home with 2-3 bathrooms. The 10 year warranty makes it a solid investment for your home despite its high cost ($549).

Pros:

• Easy to use
• Metered filtration system enhances its accuracy
• Adjustable settings help control water consumption rate.
• Consistent water flow rate of 12 GPM
• Eliminates minerals from your water supply.
• A hardwearing system that lasts for years.  

Cons

• The installation process is tedious.
• It doesn’t come with a complete kit.

GE Whirlpool WHES30E Water Softener

Are you looking for an economical purchase?

Whirlpool WHES30E is the best option for that. The unit is capable of handling 30000 grains of salt before the water regenerates. It’s a sufficient amount for small homes with 1-3 bathrooms that require water conditioning.

What about performance? Despite its low water capacity, this system works efficiently for years. The unit has an innovative digital display that allows you to set the regeneration cycle and monitor the salt levels with ease. Additionally, it has an automatic light that goes off whenever the salt content is low. It allows the system to regenerate only when required. This process helps reduce excessive use of water. Apart from hard water minerals, the water softener deals with water iron too. So that you get clean and safe water all the time.

It’s also easy to maintain when you clean it with a company made cleanser.

The only setback is that the tank capacity is limited as compared to other systems on this list. However, this is a slight inconvenience when you experience these amazing results at a low price.

Pros:

• Stylish design meets modern aesthetic sense.
• It comes with a DIY installation kit.
• High-tech system minimizes water wastage.
• Manages salt water content.
• Easy to maintain.
• Budget-friendly model.
• Reduces scale-buildup and other hard water issues.

Cons

• Small tank size won’t work for large homes.
• Some durability issues.

Tier1 Everyday Series 48,000 Grain Water Softener

Tier1 Everyday Water Softener is a great investment for short term needs. It’s a small water softener that performs sufficiently for a few years. It’s super easy to install and doesn’t require professional assistance when you purchase it.

 The system is designed to clear away magnesium, calcium, iron, and other sediments found in your water. This, in turn, makes your water safe for drinking and cooking purposes. You’ve also got a DIY water hardness kit to check the unit’s performance.

On the whole, it’s a well-crafted model that comes with a digitized operating system, to allow you to control the regeneration cycle. The process itself is noiseless and manages to reduce all signs of hard water buildup effortlessly. However, you might find that the 22000 grain per cycle is awfully low for a unit that costs as much as the medium-scale products.

Additionally, many users have complained about replacement issues and  the presence of salty water. Nonetheless, these are things that can be resolved with the help of their customer support team or a professional plumber.

We were hoping to review the Water Boss 700 Water Softener but unfortunately it wasn’t available for review.

Pros:

• Digitally programmed regeneration cycle to optimize usage.
• User-friendly interface to make programming simple.
• Includes iron and sediment filter for enhanced water quality.
• Comes with a water hardness kit to track its results.
• Noiseless regeneration cycle.

Cons

• Durability issues.
• Some users have complained about getting salty water post-regeneration.

Genesis Premier 96,000 Grain Water Softener

Genesis Premier 96,000 Grain Water Softener offers users a luxury water conditioning experience. The product’s USP is its cutting edge technology that optimizes the filtration process. The best part is that the cleaning cycle is set and adjusted by you. So you can simply ‘set and forget’ the unit once you’ve programmed it for its first cycle.

Why do we like it? For starters, the unit is integrated with advanced technology that makes the whole process far easier than other units. You can program the regeneration cycle according to your needs. After which, the system will work ceaselessly without any input required from you.

It’s also got a permanent memory that protects your original conditioning setting. Plus, the smart system reduces the water wastage and consumption of salt. Therefore, we feel that this is an eco-friendly device.

Despite all this, you may hesitate to buy this product because it costs about $1,500. The high-end price scale will likely be too much for the average household. Plus, poor customer support could be a nuisance for customers who can’t install the unit.

Pros:

• User-friendly design and programming.
• Easy to install.
• Customized regeneration cycle.
• Smart salt and water effective settings.
• Super reliable water conditioner.
• Includes a memory feature that protects your setting.

Cons

• Pricey purchase.

Home Master HMF3SDGFEC Water Filter

If you’re looking for a holistic water softener then Home Master has got you covered. The company has crafted a house water filtration system that combats all hard water impurities. The multifaceted system contains carbon and sediment filters to achieve this feat.

How does it work? The system removes traces of sediment and known minerals from the water supply. It also cleans out the rust and limescale buildup that’s affecting your plumbing lines. In this way, it gives you a clean and hygienic supply of water.

The best part is that this extensive purification process does not affect the water pressure. In other words, you get clean water at optimum pressure throughout your house.

Overall, it’s a highly-efficient and reliable water conditioning system. The only problem is that it’s designed to treat well water only. That’s because its filtration system isn’t as effective on contaminated city water.

Pros:

• Purifies water with an extensive 3-step process.
• Keeps the water pressure regulated while cleansing the water.
• Tackles minerals, rust, and sediment.
• Eliminate traces of iron too.
• Provides the whole house with odorless and tasteless water.
• 95% purification guaranteed.

Cons

• It’s bulkier than most units.
• Isn’t suitable for city water.

Aquios AQFS220L Salt Free Water Softener

Do you need a small system?

Aquios AQFS220L will be the perfect fit for you. This compact water softener can be easily installed anywhere around the house. The unit is sufficient for small households that have 1-2 bathrooms and minimum outdoor requirements.

What about performance? This is a standard whole water softener that conditions and filters your water simultaneously. The biggest benefit is that it accomplishes this task without using electricity or any chemicals. It uses a carbon block filtration process to provide you with a clean salt free supply of water for a long time. This makes it an environmentally-friendly unit.

In addition to this, the all-one unit doubles up as a dechlorinator too. It ensures that your tap water is odorless and free from metallic taste. This function makes it a great unit for both personal and commercial purposes.

The only setback is that you can’t control water consumption or the regeneration cycle. This could lead to higher water consumption and other problems in its process. It’s also why people have complained that it’s slightly overpriced for a standard unit that doesn’t include an integrated system.

Pros:

• Small water softener for average households.
• A multipurpose unit that cleans your water from other impurities.
• Removes all salts and other causes of hard water.
• It reduces all signs of water hardness.
• It’s an eco-friendly device.
• FDA approved technology makes it suitable for commercial use.

Cons

• It won’t handle more than 3 bathrooms.
• You can’t customize the regeneration settings.

Pelican Natursoft Water Softener

Are you looking for a top-rated salt free water softener?

Then you should get Pelican Natursoft Salt Free Water Softener. This sleek unit comes with a built-in UV filtration system that sterilizes your water while removing its hardness. Unlike most devices, Pelican’s water conditioner doesn’t eliminate all the minerals. It leaves some beneficial minerals behind to make the tap water healthier.

How does it tackle water hardness? The device is designed to remove water hardness without using chemicals or electricity. It uses a physical treatment method that’s much safer. The innovative technology behind this process ensures that you get salt free soft water after every regeneration cycle. This is the reason why it’s a great system for people who are on a low-sodium diet.

After a few weeks of use, you’ll notice a significant decrease in scale buildup in and around your plumbing lines. Plus, you can install the unit outside the house for watering your garden and washing the car.

Lastly, it comes with a hefty price tag ($2,500), but you’ll miss out on a lot of benefits if pricing is an issue. That’s why we suggest interested homeowners save up and buy this wonderful product.

Pros:

• Easy to install.
• Hassle-free system.
• Ideal for indoor and outdoor uses that require low-salt water.
• Minimum water wastage.
• Eliminates signs of hard water build in affected areas.
• Highly efficient salt-free water softener.
• Integrated with a UV disinfectant to help sterilize your water.

Cons

• Costly purchase.

GE GXSH30V Water Softener

GE 30,000-Grain Water Softener System is a reliable little system for your household. The product is cleverly designed to accommodate city water and well water hardness effectively. This ensures that the system is functional for homeowners everywhere.

What about performance? The system is integrated with cutting edge technology that tracks the family’s water usage patterns. This helps the water conditioning cycle to adapt according to your specific needs. You can enhance this usage by customizing the cleansing cycle.

Overall, the unit presents an eco-friendly way to evade all potential hard water issues. The best part is that it’s a fairly economical purchase that costs less than $400. In comparison to other water softeners in this list, this is the best deal for budget conscious families.

The only setback is that the installation process is tedious and you may face connectivity issues during usage. However, these things can be evaded through professional assistance. 

Pros:

• Simple programming and smart water technology.
• Cost-effective product.
• Metered regeneration to ensure precision and accuracy.
• Reduces scaling, maintenance discrepancies and other water hardness issues.
• Removes both hard water minerals and iron deposits.
• Works well for municipal plumbing lines and well water systems.
• Highly efficient and durable for long time use.

Cons

• Issues with the setup.
• Noticeable leaks and connectivity issues after a few cycles.
• Not suitable for larger households.

GE GXSH40V Water Softener

GE 40,000-Grain Water Softener System is a bigger version of the previous product. The system accommodates the needs for bigger households with its large water capacity. Like the former, this product is feasible for both city and well water.

In terms of performance, you can expect it to deliver soft water to the entire household. You simply have to program the regeneration cycle according to your needs. The digitally enhanced system then adapts to your water usage patterns to optimize its performance.

The salt-based water system efficiently manages water consumption rates too.

On the whole, it’s an inexpensive purchase that provides the best value for your money. The only issue is that the installation process isn’t DIY-friendly. You may also face problems with the system as users have complained about programming issues.

Nonetheless, you can address these issues by calling in an expert for consultation.

Pros:

• User-friendly programming system.
• Budget-friendly product.
• Digitally customized regeneration for accuracy.
• Smart water technology to conserve electricity and water consumption.
• Eliminates all possible signs of water hardness.
• Tackles iron deposits.
• Doable for city and well water supplies.
• Highly efficient and durable for longtime use.

Cons

• Issues with the setup.
• Some users have complained about malfunctioning.

Complete Water Softener Brine Tank

Does your brine tank leak a lot?

Complete Water Softener Brine Tank is the perfect replacement tank for your unit. It’s a cost-effective option that helps increase the longevity of your device. The best part is that it’s compatible with most water conditioners. You’ll find that it’s pretty easy to install in your system.

The tank is designed with safety float and air check features. These characteristics prevent the tank from overfilling and stop the air pressure to buildup. It minimizes leakage and keeps your water softener’s performance in check.

Of course, the drawback here is that you need to find the right system for this brine tank. So make sure to take proper measurements of your water softener before you purchase it.

Pros:

• Simple installation process.
• Compact design.
• The safety float feature stops the tank from overfilling.
• It comes with an air check fixture that monitors the air pressure.

Cons

• We can’t guarantee that it’ll fit your unit.

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The Benefits: Why Do You Need One?

Water softeners are an economical way to deal with hard water. They minimize the negative impact of water hardness by converting it into soft water. Additionally, most water conditioners come with chlorine filter and other purification features that make your tap water drinkable.

That’s why we suggest that you install a reliable unit if you wish to deal with a severe hard water problem. 

Let’s look at the main benefits of water softeners:

1. Improves Water Quality

The main purpose of a water softener is to get rid of water hardness. This, in turn, carries out a chain of reactions that aid your household chores.

For starters, the enhanced water quality means that your tap water is safe and drinkable. That’s because it’s free from odors and that metallic taste. Since many systems come with chlorine filters and disinfectant features the water conditioner works as a water purifier too. Plus, drinkable water means that it’s safe to use for washing veggies and other cooking chores. 

Secondly, washing and cleaning with hard water can cause skin and hair problems. You can avoid those risks when you buy a reliable water conditioning system. The treated water prevents your skin from drying out and makes your hair healthy again.

Moreover, hard water also makes cleaning utensils, bathrooms, and kitchen skin challenging. That’s because it leaves behind mineral residue and soap suds which are difficult to get rid of. On the other hand, your laundered clothes become stiff due to water hardness. 

Once you install a water conditioner, these things become more manageable as soft water diminishes these problems.

2. Reduces Plumbing Problems

Did you know? Hard water and its abundant mineral deposits are responsible for most plumbing issues.

Here are a few examples:

• The accumulated minerals cause the pipelines to rust.
• It’s difficult to clean drains and faucets that are coated with mineral deposits.
• Hard water is known to corrode the internal plumbing system.

As a consequence, you have to deal with frequent plumbing issues that rack up a hefty maintenance bill. However, investing in a feasible water softener can effectively reduce the plumbing problems that you face on a regular basis.

3. Minimizes Maintenance Costs

Believe it or not, but plumbing isn’t the only thing that’s affected by hard water. The high mineral content harms your water appliances and kitchen utensils too.

How?

Firstly, the mineral deposits start accumulating in the water heating system, instant hot and cold water systems and other appliance. This inhibits their performance and subsequently increases your electricity bills. That’s because the devices start using more energy to do operate.

Moreover, similar to the pipelines, the metallic parts of these devices start corroding due to frequent exposure to minerals. Therefore, your maintenance costs and electricity bills double up when your systems start performing poorly.

Apart from this, regular contact with hard water decreases the longevity of your kitchen utensils too. You start noticing scaling and mineral deposits present on the inner walls of the utensils. Not only does this make cleaning ineffective but the mineral deposits might seep into your food too. So it’s better to replace the damaged goods before the problem escalates.

Treating the water supply with a water conditioner is the only way to resolve these pestering issues. With soft water, the water-damage is relatively low and you don’t so are the health risks.

Ultimately, soft water improves the quality of your life and prevents costly repairs and maintenance problems.

The Mechanism: How Does It Work?

The science behind a water softener is based on an extensive ion exchange process. Whenever, hard water enters the system, the resin tank inside replaces the hard water minerals with sodium particles derived from the salt inside the tank.

Once the resin bed reaches a saturation point, the system automatically starts a regeneration cycle. This step is a cleansing process where a stream of back flushes washes out the trapped minerals. The water that flows out of the system is free from all hard water minerals.

 Next, the sodium particles are refilled in the tank so that the next filtration cycle begins.

 In many cases, the filtration tank has other filters (dechlorinator, citric acid water conditioner or salt-free water conditioner). These features help purify the water further and make it suitable for drinking and cleaning purposes.

In short, water conditioning is typically a three-step process that operates on electricity or water pressure depending on the model you’ve bought. The main mechanism works due to the natural ion exchange method. Therefore, this technique is dubbed as an eco-friendly way to combat hard water.

The Installation: How Do You Install a Water Softener?

Installing a water softener is typically easy. Most devices come with a comprehensive guide that shows you how to set up the system.

We’ve broken down the installation process to give you an idea of what needs to be done.

Let’s have a look:

1. Preparing to install your water softener

The first thing you’ve got to do is decide where to install the water softener. Our advice is to set it up near the main supply line, so that it treats the water before it reaches the rest of the household. This ensures that your plumbing lines remain unaffected by hard water and you get clean softened water from all the taps.

Once that’s settled, make sure that the spot is clean and dry. Also, do check the installation kit for missing parts and required tools. You don’t want to stop the installation process midway due to a missing part/tool.

After that:

1. Turn off the water supply and electric heater to prevent any hindrances.
2. Drain out all your plumbing lines before the setup.

These steps ensure that your plumbing lines and appliances don’t cause problems during installation and vice versa.

2. Installation of your water softener

Once you’ve prepared the spot you should:

• Place your water softener and accompanying brine tank (depending on the model you’ve got).
• Ensure that your device is secure and that it doesn’t wobble.
• Cut into the main supply to install the bypass valve (make sure that the O rings are securely fastened to prevent a loose connection).
• Next, connect your inlet and outlet ports. Do make sure that the direction of the water supply is right. Otherwise, the purification process won’t work properly.
• Install a drain connection and overflow connect for salt water systems. These fixtures help prevent leakage and the brine tank from overfilling respectively.
• Install the brine line next to the water conditioner. (This won’t be necessary for systems that have built-in brine tanks)
• Double check all the connections.

3. After installing your water softener

Certain precautionary measures need to be taken once the system is installed.

Here are a few that come into our mind:

1. You need to fill the brine tank with salt. Then sanitize the system before starting the cycle.
2. Slowly turn the water supply and start a trial round.
3. Check for leaks and other connectivity issues.
4. Start the regeneration cycle.

In the end, if you’re satisfied with your installation, you should program the system according to your needs. Ensure that the configuration optimizes its performance and conserves water simultaneously.

That’s it! You’re ready to use the system now and get soft mineral-free water throughout the plumbing system.

To sum up water softeners…

In a nutshell, an effective water conditioner can help keep this water quality issue at bay.  It’s an excellent way to obtain soft salt-free water from your main supply. You can expect water conditioning to reduce scaling, skin conditions, hair problems, and other hard water problems.

Plus, the additional filtration features give you access to safe and clean water.

So which one of these products will you buy?

Watch this space for more reviews and tips on household water appliances!