What Should I look for in a Water Softener?

You need a metered water softener. We do not recommend any other types as they are far too expensive to operate in the long term. Metered Water Softeners have a meter installed in the water line and measure how many gallons of water you actually use. The unit is set according to your water hardness, and will recharge when the gallons used have exhausted the capacity of the resin bed. This will save you salt and money.  

Make sure that the water softener has large porting throughout (at least ¾) to minimize pressure loss to your shower and taps. You should also be looking for a water softener that is made up of common components that are used by many different water treatment companies to make sure that in 10 or 15 or 20 years from now you will still be able to get parts and service. The valve should have a self diagnosis system that helps trouble shoot problems to make long-term service easier. Also, purchasing a water softener that is made in North America and from a company that offers installation and service is very important.