Main Properties
The Fleck 5600SXT Water Softener reduces the levels of hardness in both well and municipally-treated water. It works based on gallon usage or time elapsed – you can choose which setting to use. You fill the tank with sand, and then the device will run the water through the system to release softer water. The qualities of this new water will extend the lifespan of your home appliances, and it will provide you with better water for drinking and bathing. This model can also work with potassium but make sure you don’t mix potassium and salt.
A significant advantage of this machine is that it recharges automatically about every three weeks. The recharging also depends on the number of people in the house. You will notice optimal performance with four or less constant inhabitants.
What It Removes
This device is not explicitly designed to remove contaminants and harmful elements from the water. Its primary purpose is to reduce the hardness of the water. However, it will still remove small amounts of iron as long as it is under 2 PPM.
If you want the system to eliminate more particles, you will need additional filters which have this function. The filters go in the line before the softener.
The Contents of the Set
Fleck 5600SXT Water Softener comes with everything that you will need to install the water softener. This includes:
- The tank
- Resin
- Control head with LCD Digital display and touchpad controls
- Brine
- Bypass valve
- MNPT fittings
- O-ring
Usually, you should be able to connect the parts yourself guided by the instructions, but do not worry if you don’t feel confident. You can always ask a professional plumber for help.
What to Expect
As long as you follow the directions for programming, your softener should function as expected. No residue remains after the softer water comes out through the pipes. As the system recharges itself, it will drain out the discharge line. The softener will use 40-50 gallons of water during regeneration. This softener is a metered on-demand system and will do the regeneration automatically.
The softener will not tell you how hard your water is. A testing operation could be performed beforehand with the help of a water test kit. Once you know the hardness, you enter the numbers in the program, and it will know how many gallons to treat. You will want to get a unit based on your water consumption needs.
This unit should be more than enough for four people and regular household use (dishwasher, laundry, etc.). It might also be sufficient for when there are a few periodic guests. When you go on vacation, you should bypass the softener and then unplug it. When you come back, put it back in service and plug it in.
There should not be any noticeable change in the water pressure in your entire household.
The device will withstand harsh weather conditions even when it is outside. The control valve is water-proof, but you will need to get an electrical cover for the electrical connection.
Pros
- Extends the life of any home appliances
- Provides better water for drinking and bathing
- Adaptable installation
- Package includes everything needed for installation
- Removes iron
- Recharges automatically
- Good price
- No water pressure issues
Cons
- The back of the control head connects to some fittings which make the construction wobbly.
- No drainage tubing in the set
- The description does not mention that there is only one size MNPT.