If you are looking for a water softener that can save you money and water, you might want to consider an up-flow water softener. Unlike conventional downflow water softeners, up-flow water softeners send the water up through the resin tank, which makes them more efficient and eco-friendly. In this article, we will review some of the best up-flow water softeners available on the market and help you choose the right one for your home.

Abcwaters 5600sxt fleck water softener

Unlock a new level of home comfort with the AbcWaters 5600sxt Fleck Water Softener. Weighing in at a robust 95 pounds, this powerhouse softener is designed to revolutionize your water quality. Standing tall at 54 inches with a width and depth of 10 inches each, it effortlessly blends into your home, making a discreet yet impactful statement.

The Fleck model comes complete with a softener and carbon tank, offering a dynamic duo to combat water impurities. Activated carbon and sedimentation work in harmony within this system, ensuring your water undergoes a comprehensive purification process. Say goodbye to the hassles of hard water as this innovative solution transforms your daily water experience.

Crafted with precision, the Abcwaters 5600sxt promises durability and efficiency. Its compact dimensions belie its powerful performance, making it a perfect fit for homes of all sizes. The 95-pound weight underscores its robust construction, guaranteeing a long-lasting solution to your water-softening needs.

Upgrade your lifestyle and invest in the AbcWaters 5600sxt Fleck Water Softener, where advanced technology meets reliable design. Embrace the luxury of softer water, free from impurities, and enjoy a home environment that truly stands out.

Pros:

• Advanced Fleck on-demand digital meter for precise water softening.
• The combo package with upflow carbon filtration enhances water quality.
• Sturdy construction with two American-made tanks for long-term reliability.
• The generous 48,000-grain capacity tackles varying water hardness levels.
• Fleck 5600sxt is backed by a 5-year warranty; tanks are covered for 10 years.

Cons:

• A system weight of 95 pounds may pose installation challenges for some.
• Limited to 1.5 cubic feet of resin, it may require more frequent regeneration in high-demand scenarios.

Genesis 2 premier water softener

Elevate your water-softening experience with the Genesis 2 Premier Water Softener, a powerhouse designed for optimal performance and efficiency. Crafted with innovation in mind, this premier system boasts the Genesis Premier Upflow On Demand Metered Control, ensuring a seamless 13-gallon-per-minute flow with a 2 GPM backwash rate. The 1.25 cubic feet of 10% Crosslink resin guarantee the highest durability and capacity, supported by a robust 10×44 resin tank with a lifetime warranty.

Featuring a unique 3/4″ and 1″ bypass, an integrated turbine meter, and a 14×14 brine tank capable of holding up to 200 lbs of salt, the Genesis Premier stands out. The addition of the Tank Tux neoprene jacket minimizes tank sweating, while the 18×33 brine tank holds an impressive 300 lbs of salt. A family of four can save a remarkable 8,280 lbs. of salt and 32,400 gallons of water compared to traditional downflow softeners.

The Genesis Premier’s advanced technology includes an Upflow Brining system that precisely calculates salt brine, saving up to 30% in regeneration. With a 10-year control head warranty and a lifetime warranty on the resin and brine tank, this premier water softener has already proven its worth with over 1 million tanks sold and zero returns. Enjoy softer water, significant savings, and the assurance of a top-tier system that exceeds expectations.

Pros:

• Genesis Premier Upflow On Demand Metered Control for efficient water softening
• Durable 10% Crosslink Resin with a lifetime warranty on the resin tank
• Large brine tanks (14×14 and 18×33) for extended salt capacity
• Upflow The brining system saves up to 30% on salt during regeneration
• Automatic System Refresh prevents bacterial growth after 7 days of non-use
• Soft Water Recharge Mode ensures continuous soft water during heavy usage
• 10-year control head warranty provides long-term reliability

Cons:

• The initial cost may be higher compared to some traditional water softeners
• Requires regular salt refilling for optimal performance

Durawater fleck 5600sxt water softener

Upgrade your home water system with the Durawater Fleck 5600SXT Water Softener, a powerhouse of efficiency and convenience. This programmable marvel stands tall at 62 inches, delivering softened water effortlessly.

Measuring 15 inches in length and 28 inches in width, the compact design houses a Fleck 5600SXT On-Demand Digital Metered Water Softener with a 48,000-grain capacity. The 1.5 cubic feet of high-capacity resin are pre-loaded in the USA Mineral tank, simplifying installation. The tank arrives ready for action, packed with premium resin, accompanied by a USA Brine Tank equipped with a safety float.

Worried about installation complexities? Fear not! This complete system includes a complimentary 1-inch Noryl plastic bypass, ensuring a hassle-free setup. Our commitment to your satisfaction extends beyond the purchase with our dedicated toll-free support. At 53 pounds, this water softener is a heavy-duty solution for your household water needs.

Say goodbye to hard water issues and embrace the efficiency of the Durawater Fleck 5600SXT. Discover the ultimate water conditioning solution with our top-of-the-line softener, backed by exceptional support. Elevate your water quality effortlessly.

Pros:

• Programmable for customized water softening
• Compact design with dimensions 15″L x 28″W x 62″H
• High capacity: 48,000 grains, 1.5 cubic feet of resin
• Easy installation with pre-loaded USA Mineral tank
• Includes USA Brine Tank with safety float
• Free 1-inch Noryl plastic bypass for added convenience
• Dedicated toll-free customer support for assistance

Cons:

• Weighs 53 pounds and may require assistance during installation

SoftPro Whole House Water Softener

Experience a revolution in water softening with the SoftPro Elite, your gateway to unparalleled efficiency and water purity. Crafted with cutting-edge technology, the SoftPro Elite Basic High-Efficiency Water Softener promises substantial savings, cutting salt usage by up to 75% and reducing wastewater by an impressive 64%.

Banish concerns about harmful chemicals in your water supply with the chlorine reduction feature. The 1.5 Cubic Foot Upflow Catalytic Carbon Filter eliminates chlorine, chloramines, pesticides, herbicides, and other chemicals, ensuring that every drop is pure and safe.

Embrace sustainability with the Green RO system, employing high-efficiency reverse osmosis to deliver crystal-clear, filtered water for your family’s well-being. The innovative design doesn’t just stop at functionality; the protective jacket, crafted from neoprene, shields your tanks from etching, sweating, and freezing.

Upgrade to SoftPro Elite, where smart technology meets environmental consciousness, providing your household with the luxury of more savings and less maintenance. Elevate your water quality and embrace a new era of purity with SoftPro Elite.

Pros:

• Up to 75% savings on salt usage
• 64% reduction in wastewater
• Effective Chlorine Reduction with Catalytic Carbon Filter
• High-Efficiency Reverse Osmosis for Purified Drinking Water
• Neoprene Tank Jackets protect against etching, sweating, and freezing

Cons:

• Limited information on specific dimensions and installation details
• Requires periodic maintenance for optimal performance

Watts Premier Water Filtration Kit

Enhance the quality of water flowing through your household with the Watts Premier Water Filtration Kit. This Whole House Filter is a powerhouse, reducing harmful chemicals and odors in your water by an impressive 99.8%. Crafted from durable stainless steel, it stands at 5.5 inches in length, 7.5 inches in width, and 14 inches in height, with a substantial weight of 4.5 pounds.

Installed conveniently under your sink, this filtration system operates solely on the power of filtration, efficiently safeguarding your water heater, washing machine, refrigerators, and more from the damaging effects of sediments, dirt, and rust. With a generous capacity of 50,000 gallons, it comes complete with three 50-micron sediment water filters, a ball valve, a mounting bracket, and a housing wrench. The lid features 3/4-inch ports with stainless steel-reinforced inserts, seamlessly fitting into standard household plumbing.

This premier filtration method utilizes sedimentation and is adept at removing particles that can jeopardize your water softener, prematurely clog a carbon filter, or compromise plumbing fixtures. Operating between 40°F and 100°F, this Whole House Filter ensures your home receives cleaner, purified water, providing peace of mind for your appliances and plumbing infrastructure. Professional installation is recommended, positioning it indoors on the main water line for optimal performance. Elevate your water quality with the Watts Premier Water Filtration Kit—your reliable guardian against water impurities.

Pros:

• Reduces harmful chemicals and odors in water by 99.8%
• Stainless steel construction for durability
• Whole-house filtration protects appliances and plumbing
• Easy under-sink installation
• Generous 50,000-gallon capacity
• Includes three 50-micron sediment water filters
• Stainless steel-reinforced inserts for standard plumbing fit

Cons:

• Professional installation recommended
• Indoor installation is required on the main water line
• Operating temperatures are limited to 40°F to 100°F

Buying Guide for the Best Upflow Water Softeners

An upflow water softener is a type of system that removes hard water minerals like calcium and magnesium as water flows up through a resin bed. The softened water then flows down through the resin and exits the softener. Upflow softeners are often more compact and efficient than downflow models. The upward flow helps keep the resin clean and can use less water for regeneration.

Benefits of Using an Upflow Water Softener

Upflow water softeners offer several advantages over other types of softeners. The upward flow provides more efficient water softening as it evenly distributes water through the resin beads. This results in better mineral removal. Upflow softeners also use less salt for regeneration, saving money on salt costs over time. Their vertical design gives them a smaller footprint, allowing installation in tight spaces where downflow units won’t fit. The upward flow helps reduce resin fouling and channeling, so upflow softeners require less maintenance overall. They also utilize simple timer-based control valves that are easy to service.

What to Look for When Buying an Upflow Softener

When selecting an upflow water softener, there are several key factors to consider:

Water Hardness Level

You’ll want to test your water’s hardness level in grains per gallon. The softener capacity should match your water’s hardness to avoid issues with insufficient softening.

Flow Rate

Determine your household’s peak water usage flow rate in gallons per minute. Choose an upflow softener that can handle the maximum expected flow rate. Undersized units will leave hard water in your supply.

Resin Type

Look for upflow softeners using high-quality, strong acid-cation resin beads. Top brands like Clack or Purolite are recommended for longevity.

Salt Storage Capacity

Make sure the brine tank can hold enough salt between regenerations for your household’s needs. Larger households may require tanks with a 25-pound capacity.

Warranty

Select an upflow softener with at least a 5-year warranty on the control valve and 10 years on the mineral tank. This ensures the system will be covered in the event of defects.

Certifications

Choose an upflow softener certified by the NSF or WQA to meet all safety and performance standards.

Installation Tips for Upflow Softeners

Properly installing your upflow softener is important for efficiency and longevity.

• Install it on a level, stable floor in a protected indoor area. Avoid areas with freezing temperatures.
• Place the brine tank close to the softener so the refill line can reach it.
• Connect to the main water supply line, not hose bibs or spigots.
• Install a bypass valve to isolate the softener when servicing.
• Connect the drain line securely to a floor drain or laundry sink. Overhead drains can backflow.
• Carefully program the control settings, like time of day, hardness, and regeneration schedule.
• Add water and salt, and draw brine before first use.
• Consider pre-filtering with a sediment filter to prolong resin life.

Conclusion

Choosing the right upflow water softener involves matching capacity to water hardness, flow rate, and resin quality. When properly installed and maintained, an upflow softener provides efficient hardness removal for household water supplies. Look for models with certifications and good warranties from reputable brands.

Frequently Asked Question

How does an upflow water softener differ from a traditional downflow system?

Upflow water softeners operate in the opposite direction of downflow systems. In an upflow system, water enters from the bottom and flows upward through the resin tank. This unique design enhances resin bed expansion and prevents channeling, leading to more efficient ion exchange and longer resin life.

What are the benefits of using an upflow water softener?

Upflow water softeners offer advantages such as reduced salt usage, increased water efficiency, and improved overall system performance. They are known for their ability to provide consistently softened water while minimizing the potential for resin fouling.

How does upflow technology contribute to water and salt savings?

Upflow water softeners optimize the regeneration process by only backwashing the depleted resin bed, reducing water and salt consumption. This targeted regeneration approach ensures that only the exhausted resin is regenerated, maximizing the efficiency of the system and minimizing environmental impact.

Can an upflow water softener handle varying water hardness levels?

Yes, upflow water softeners are designed to adapt to changing water hardness levels. The upflow regeneration process allows the system to effectively handle fluctuations in water hardness, ensuring a consistent supply of softened water regardless of variations in the incoming water quality.

How do I choose the right size and capacity for my upflow water softener?

To determine the appropriate size, consider factors such as water hardness, household size, and water usage patterns. It’s essential to calculate the system’s capacity to ensure it can adequately handle your household’s demands. Consulting with a water treatment professional can help you select the right upflow water softener for your specific needs.