Everyone and their mom knows that water softeners treat hard water problems, but did you know about smart water softeners?
These smart devices provide soft water and ensure minimum water, salt, and power usage through:
So, if you’re buying a water softener, you must ensure it’s smart! And this latest guide will help you with just that!
✋Top 5 Smart Water Softeners For Well Water (Quick Preview)
Best Overall: SpringWell SS1
- Grain Capacity: 32,000 to 80,000 grains
- Flow Rate: 11-20 GPM
- REGEN On Demand: Yes
- Salt Monitoring Feature: Present
- App Support: Available
Also Good: DROP Smart Water Softener
- Grain Capacity: 32,000 to 64,000 grains
- Flow Rate: 10-12 GPM
- REGEN On Demand: Yes
- Salt Monitoring Feature: Present
- App Support: Available
Best For Budget: Quantum AR2
- Grain Capacity: 32,000 to 64,000 grains
- Flow Rate: 12-15 GPM
- REGEN On Demand: Yes
- Salt Monitoring Feature: Absent
- App Support: NA
Best Alternative: US WATER SYSTEMS MATRIXX SMART Softener
- Grain Capacity: 27,000 to 70,000 grains
- Flow Rate: 10-20 GPM
- REGEN On Demand: Yes
- Salt Monitoring Feature: Present
- App Support: Available
Wi-Fi-Enabled: Whirlpool WHES40E
- Grain Capacity: 40,000 grains
- Flow Rate: 8.5 GPM
- REGEN On Demand: Yes
- Salt Monitoring Feature: Present
- App Support: Available
Here's How We Test Products At Aquaprofessor
🎯Unbiased Water Softener Reviews: Which System Is The Smartest?
| Basis | SpringWell SS1 | DROP Smart | Quantum AR2 | US WATER SYSTEMS MATRIXX SMART Softener | Whirlpool WHES40E |
| Grain Capacity | 32,000 to 80,000 grains | 32,000 to 64,000 grains | 32,000 to 64,000 grains | 27,000 to 70,000 grains | 40,000 grains |
| Flow Rate | 11-20 GPM | 10-12 GPM | 12-15 GPM | 7-20 GPM | 8.5 GPM |
| REGEN On Demand | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Salt Monitoring Feature | Present | Present | Absent | Present | Present |
| App Support | Available | Available | NA | Available | Available |
👌Best Overall: SpringWell SS1
Pros
- High grain capacity for efficient softening
- Up to 20 GPM flow rate
- Demand-initiated regeneration for salt efficiency
- App support for convenient control
- NSF/WQA certified components
- 6-month satisfaction guarantee
- Lifetime warranty on tanks and valves
Cons
- No leak detectors
One of its smart features is the demand-initiated regeneration system. Thus, it regenerates based on your actual water usage rather than a fixed schedule. It optimizes salt and water consumption, making it cost-effective in the long run.
Softening Efficiency
SpringWell offers 3 models with 32,000(SS1), 48,000 (SS4), and 80,000 (SS+) grain capacities for varying incoming hard water levels and other water contaminants.
This SpringWell water softener offers a service flow rate of 11 to 20 Gallons Per Minute (GPM), ensuring a consistent and adequate water supply for a household with 4-10 bathrooms.
Here are the details:
- 1-3 bathrooms for 11 GPM
- 4-6 bathrooms for 13 GPM
- 7+ bathrooms for 20 GPM
The system is built from components certified by NSF (National Sanitation Foundation) and WQA (Water Quality Association), which guarantees the quality and safety of the system.
Why #1 Smart Softener In 2024?
Ease Of Use And Maintenance
The SpringWell SS1 may require professional installation, but it has comprehensive installation manuals and instructional videos to assist DIY enthusiasts.
The compact space-saving tank design has a user-friendly Bluetooth control panel that provides flexible control over the softening process.
You can access the electronic control head through the SpringWell mobile app.
The frequency of salt top-up largely depends on water hardness and usage. Thanks to the demand-initiated regeneration, you’ll find that the SS1 optimizes the regeneration process based on average water usage to minimize salt and water wastage.
The resin tank has a lifespan of 8 years before requiring replacement, whereas the brine tank with 200 lbs capacity requires salt refill every 6-8 weeks.
Customer Support And Warranty
SpringWell is known for its excellent customer support. Their team is readily available to answer inquiries or concerns via email, phone, and contact form on the SpringWell website.
They offer a 6-month no-risk satisfaction guarantee and a limited lifetime warranty on tanks and valves (*control valve for five years and the tank for ten years).
💦Also Good: DROP Smart Water Softener
Pros
- Demand-initiated regeneration
- Bluetooth control head programming
- App support for remote control and troubleshooting
- Easy installation
- Automatic leak protection
- Reliable customer support
- Limited lifetime warranty on tank and resin
Cons
- Low flow rate compared to Springwell.
- Additional cost for DROP Hub
It has a demand-initiated regeneration system, which works based on your water consumption to save resources and guarantees a consistent supply of soft water.
Softening Efficiency
The DROP Smart Water Softener offers 32,000 to 64,000-grain capacities to combat hard water issues effectively with a flow rate of up to 12 GPM.
The best part? They use NSF and WQA-certified components for safety.
Why #2 Smart Softener In 2024?
Ease Of Use And Maintenance
Users have praised the DROP Smart water softener system for its straightforward installation process. The system has a DIY manual and instruction videos to help with installation.
The DROP app is super beneficial as it provides regular updates and notifications regarding:
Thus, the maintenance is quite easy and carefree.
Customer Support And Warranty
The customer service is reliable and responsive. You can get in touch with their executive via the live chat facility or contact form on the DROP Smart website. You can also connect via phone call or email during their working hours on weekdays.
The DROP Smart Water Softener comes with a good warranty package, offering a limited lifetime warranty on the tank and resin, a 5-year warranty on the control valve, and a 5-year warranty on the electronic components.
💰Best For Budget: Quantum AR2
Pros
- Advanced upflow REGEN technology
- Auto-bypass valve
- Low salt usage
- IAPMO-approved components
- Reliable customer support.
- Lifetime warranty on ceramic disk component
Cons
- 8% crosslink resin beads are used instead of 10%
This system utilizes new up-flow metered regeneration technology, a feature that sets it apart from traditional water softeners. It ensures the system regenerates when necessary, conserving salt and resin media health.
Softening Efficiency
The Quantum AR2 offers an impressive range of grain capacities (32k, 48k, 64k), making it suitable for small and large households. Filtration media package upgrades are also available to adjust the system as per the quality of your water.
The Quantum AR2 boasts a service flow rate of 12 to 15 GPM, ensuring a steady supply of soft water, even during peak usage times.
The system uses WQA-certified resin and IAPMO-certified components, ensuring your water is softened and safe to drink.
Why #3 Smart Softener In 2024?
Ease Of Use And Maintenance
Installing the Quantum AR2 is straightforward, but we recommend you hire a professional for adjustments.
Maintenance is minimal, with salt top-up required periodically, depending on your water hardness and usage. The system’s upflow technology and efficient salt consumption reduces salt wastage by 8%.
Customer Support And Warranty
Quantum Water System’s customer support team is prompt in assisting customers with any issues or questions. You can fill out the contact form available on their website.
Regarding warranty, the Quantum AR2 offers a lifetime warranty on its internal ceramic disk component that aids in the softening and regeneration.
🏆Best Alternative: US WATER SYSTEMS MATRIXX SMART WATER SOFTENER
Pros
- Superior softening efficiency
- Easy app-based remote control
- Easy installation and maintenance
- Compatible with both sodium and potassium chloride salt
- Can detect leaks
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Complaints of poor customer service.
Matrixx water softener combines a vortex tank, smart valve, and high-capacity resin matrix to deliver high softening efficiency.
Softening Efficiency
The US Water Systems Matrixx Smart Water Softener is available in grain capacities – 27k, 35k, 53k, and 70k, offering a wide range for different water hardness levels. Upgrades are ideal for large households with high water consumption.
The system delivers a different water flow rate for different models, ranging from 12 GPM to 22 GPM, ensuring consistent water pressure and flow throughout your home, even during regeneration.
The Cherry on the cake is it utilizes NSF/WQA-certified components for quality assurance.
Why #4 Smart Softener In 2024?
Ease Of Use And Maintenance
The US Water Systems Matrixx Smart Water Softener is designed for easy installation. It includes a comprehensive installation manual and instructional videos on their website, making the setup process user-friendly, even for those without experience.
Maintenance is minimal, primarily consisting of periodic salt refills. The system’s demand-initiated regeneration technology minimizes salt usage, reducing the frequency of top-ups.
Customer Support And Warranty
US Water Systems has good customer support, although some users faced bad experiences. Online reviews and testimonials also highlight their dedication to customer satisfaction. You can call their customer support person or use the chatbot on their website.
The Matrixx Smart Water Softener offers a lifetime warranty on the tank and resin and a 10-year warranty on the valve and electronics.
📶Wi-Fi-Enabled: Whirlpool WHES40E
Pros
- Wi-Fi-enabled for remote monitoring and control.
- Space-saving one cabinet design
- Low-salt alerts
- Easy installation
- NSF/WQA-certified components
Cons
- Reports of shipping damage
- Less flow rate compared to similar models.
- Full warranty only comes with an additional cleaner purchase.
This on-demand regeneration technology ensures that the unit regenerates only when necessary, optimizing salt consumption and water usage.
Softening Efficiency
The Whirlpool WHES40E offers a moderate grain capacity of 40,000 grains, making it suitable for an average household. It has a rated service flow rate of 8.5 GPM, good enough for a family of 2-4 members. It can remove only up to 7 GPG of hardness, which is less than similar models in the market.
This on-demand regeneration technology ensures that the unit regenerates only when necessary, optimizing salt consumption and water usage.
For peace of mind regarding water quality, the Whirlpool WHES40E uses NSF/WQA-certified components.
Why #5 Smart Softener In 2024?
Ease Of Use And Maintenance
Installing the Whirlpool WHES40E is straightforward and comes with a DIY kit. Besides the one-cabinet sleek design, some users find it difficult to install. So, unless you have good plumbing skills, we recommend hiring a professional for the job.
The integrated bypass valve helps route water for outdoor needs or direct supply. The digital control panel is simple to use and set. The maintenance needs include timely salt refills into the brine tank of the cabinet.
Customer Support And Warranty
Whirlpool is a well-known global brand with great customer service. They assist with troubleshooting, installation, and any additional inquiries. You can head to their website and submit a request form. However, know that some users have faced delivery and packaging issues.
Additionally, this water softener comes with 1-year full parts and repair warranty, a 3-year warranty on electronics, and a 10-year warranty on the tank.
The 1-year warranty can also be extended to 5 years with an additional cleaner purchase.
🎯What Features Should I Look For in a Smart Water Softener?
Here are the key features that we considered before selecting the 5 best smart water softeners, and you should too:
1️⃣Water Softening Capacity
Water softening capacity refers to the number of grains of hardness minerals (typically calcium and magnesium) that the system can remove before a regeneration cycle is required.
The capacity is usually measured in grains per gallon (GPG) or total grains. A higher capacity means the system can treat more water before regenerating, which is especially important for households with high water usage.
2️⃣Demand-Initiated Regeneration (DI Regen)
DI regen systems monitor water flow and hardness levels over time and ensure the water softener only cleans and recharges its resin bed when needed.
This technology is septic-friendly and more efficient than time-initiated regeneration as it prevents wasteful regeneration cycles.
3️⃣Electronic Control Head and App Support
A smart water softener often has an electronic control head that allows you to program and monitor the system’s performance. This feature enhances user-friendliness and allows for better management of the system.
Additionally, looking at our busy lives, a smartphone app feature that can provide real-time information remotely can be a winning point, especially when you don’t often visit your garage to check up on the system.
4️⃣Efficient Water Softener Type (Upflow vs. Downflow)
The type of water softener you choose can significantly impact its efficiency.
Upflow water softeners are often considered more efficient than downflow models because they regenerate from the bottom of the resin tank, allowing for better resin utilization and longer-lasting performance.
Upflow systems are also more effective at preventing channeling and bridging.
5️⃣Reliable Customer Support
Customer support is crucial to any purchase, especially for smart appliances that may occasionally require troubleshooting or system upgrades.
Look for a brand or manufacturer that offers quick customer support, including responsive helplines, warranties, and readily available replacement parts.
Also Read: What Are The Parts of a Water Softener System?
🤔Is a Smart Water Softener Worth It?
The simple answer is Yes, smart water softeners are worth it. Here are some benefits of smart water softeners and why they can be a worthwhile investment:
🍃Eco-Friendly Operation
Smart water softeners are equipped with demand-initiated regeneration (DI Regen) technology that regenerates only when necessary, reducing water and salt wastage compared to traditional timer-based systems.
Less water and salt usage means fewer resources are depleted and less waste is generated, which is good for safe backwash discharge.
⚙️Convenience of Control
Smart water softeners often come with electronic control heads and smartphone apps that allow users to monitor the system’s performance remotely.
It is especially helpful for people with busy life schedules. You can check your water softener’s status, receive maintenance alerts, and even adjust settings from anywhere.
With remote monitoring and self-diagnostic features, it’s easier to identify and address issues promptly, ensuring your system runs smoothly and efficiently.
💧Water Quality Improvement
A smart salt-based softening system maintains a consistent level of water softness by adjusting regeneration cycles based on real-time water analysis.
This ensures that your home consistently enjoys the benefits of soft water, reducing issues like scale buildup and soap scum.
Some smart water softeners also can address specific concerns, such as iron or manganese removal, improving overall water quality.
🛟Extended Equipment Lifespan
By regenerating only when necessary and avoiding overuse, smart water softeners can extend the lifespan of their components, including resin tanks and control valves. It means you’ll get more value out of your investment.
💵Cost-Effective
Smart water softening systems help homeowners save on water and salt expenses by optimizing regeneration cycles.
Thus, you will indirectly notice reduced water bills, salt-refill expenses, water appliance failures, and plumbing repairs.
Note:
Some users still argue that non-smart water softeners have better performance and longevity than smart ones because phone apps require system upgrades over time and may slow down the working efficiency of the water softener. But as we found from the options listed above, smart features don’t always come with reduced efficiency.
💡Smart Water Softener FAQs
Can water softeners regenerate automatically?
Yes, water softener systems can regenerate automatically based on their programming and water usage patterns. The frequency of regeneration depends on factors like water hardness and system settings.
Are smart water softeners easy to install?
Generally, smart water softeners are easy to install, but specific installation requirements may vary by brand and model. It commonly involves connecting to your plumbing and power supply and setting up the drain line. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for details.
How do I connect my GE water softener to Wi-Fi?
1. Download the SmartHQ app on your smartphone
2. Sign in or create a Wi-Fi account.
3. On the home screen, connect your water softener by tapping the Plus (+) sign.
4. Choose your water softener from the ‘Add an Appliance’ screen and press OK.
5. Now, follow the on-screen instructions in the app.
6. Enter the password mentioned on the side label of the unit.
7. Go to your phone’s Wi-Fi settings and join the listed GEA network on display to start communication between the softener and the app.
8. Connect to your home Wi-Fi network with the password.
9. A successful connection is established once the app says ‘Connected!’.
What is the best water softener company?
The best water softener company may vary based on individual preferences. Established brands include:
1. Springwell-known for reliable performance
2. US Water Systems-known for US-built parts
3. DropConnect-impresses with smart features such as leak detectors
What type of water softener do I need for very hard water?
A dual-tank salt-based water softener with a higher grain capacity is recommended for very hard water. The dual-tank water softener type has two separate tanks that work consecutively. It efficiently handles the removal of heavy minerals and consistently provides soft water even during regeneration cycles.
Adarsh is a Health & Nutrition Sciences graduate with expertise in environmental health. He is associated with ventures like Glacier Fresh Filter and Simpure Filter Systems. Through Aqua Professor, he intends to provide helpful information to every home to help them make smarter decisions.
