How to Compare Water Softener Manufacturers

Natural water

When making the decision to purchase a water softener, a few factors must be considered. You need a water-softening system if you discover mineral buildups on your kitchen and bathroom fixtures, or when you're unable to adequately clean your clothes and, in some cases, even your person. Calcium and magnesium are among the minerals that cause these unsightly and troublesome buildups, and water softeners remove them using sodium or potassium. These appliances are expensive, so it's important that the model you choose serves your home and family for many years.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Internet access
• Telephone

Instructions

1. 

   The Internet is a good resource.

   Search the Web for information. Start with sites such as Guide4Home.com and AllWaterPurification.com. Inform yourself of the models available, the types used and the cost of each one. Precipitating and non-precipitating are the two main types on the market, and these use one of the following methods: reverse osmosis and chemical softening, mechanical treatment and electromagnetic filtering. All softening units use sodium or potassium ions in exchange for hard mineral ions as a part of the softening process.

2. 

   Start with budgeting.

   Decide on your budget, and then on the type that best suits your personal needs and expectations. The various types, models and manufacturers vary greatly in price and service.

3. 

   Scour consumer review publications.

   Visit a consumer review site or publication. These offer ratings and side-by-side comparisons on certain brands. Websites such as Consumer Reports and Good Housekeeping offer a wealth of information to aid in your decision.

4. 

   Warranties can save cash.

   Narrow your search down to a handful of specific manufacturers. Call or email them, and ask questions about control valves, regeneration, cost of installation and warranty. The control valve determines the efficiency of your model and is a costly replacement, while regeneration determines how the softening process renews itself. Installation should be a reasonable price for the model chosen, and warranties ensure protection against early breakdown and high repair bills.

Tips & Warnings

• It is always a good idea to go with well-known manufacturers when making a large purchase.

• Get your information from reputable websites and publications.

References

• Guide4Home: Water Softener Review
• All Water Purification: Water Softener Comparison; Compare by Price, Brand and Type
• Lenntech: Water Softener FAQ, Frequently Asked Questions
• Hard Water Treatment

Resources

• North Dakota State University: Treatment Systems for Household Water Supplies; Softening
• Consumer Reports
• Good Housekeeping