Choosing the best non electric water softener can be a difficult task for some homeowners. The main reason is that these water softeners require no electric power to function. And, that means if the home has low water pressure, it will not have enough flow to regenerate the unit and therefore produce softened water.
However, there are many benefits of using this type of system just as much as an electric water softener. When dealing with a hard decision on which kind of water softener to buy, note the following factors: unique features, installation, and size.
- Functions: Water softeners may have the same goal, but we can’t deny that they can handle different functions. Many filtration systems can condition, eliminate scale, and filter at the same time. You should go for one that meets your familiy’s demands, depending on the current hard water conditions.
- Durability – Make sure you go for one that is constructed to withstand corrosion, high temperature, acid, and alkali. Stainless steel is high on the list of durable filtration housing that offers long-lasting use without affecting the system’s performance. The cartridge life of the filter should also be considered thoroughly.
- Flow rate and capacity – Depending on the number of people using the water source, it is essential you go for a water softener system that has a good flow rate (around 15 gallons per minute) and high capacity.
In order to help you find one that will work best for your needs, we have created an in-depth buying guide with everything you need to know about choosing the perfect non-electric water softener!
Top 5 Non Electric Water Softener Reviews
1. Aquios AQFS220 Water Softener and Filter System
Like electric water softeners, a mechanical water softener (or non-electric water softener) can be designed for any specific use. Aquios has the AQFS220 Filter System as its non-electric water softener.
Also, this model only weighs 7.5 pounds. It doesn’t take a lot of space in the room, so it’s great for those who have tight spaces.
I chose this model specifically because I spent several months in the suburbs, where the water was hard, thus full of chemical smells. Such water did cause significant damage to their dishwashers, heaters, and other appliances. But this softener and filtration system can gradually solve the issues.
It is a 24-channel system capable of distinct functions. First of all, it eliminates hardness and chlorine, both of which can be detrimental to your health. Secondly, the filtration gets rid of acidity, alkalinity, and mineral salts that clog the plumbing pipes.
Apart from the functions of this unit, I particularly liked that it is salt- and electricity-free, which makes operating the system a breeze. Additionally, it is pretty affordable.
- A compact system, weighing 7.5 lbs, that fits tight spaces
- Removes hardness and chlorine
- Removes minerals and sediments that affect the water
- Does not require salt or electricity to run
- An affordable option
- There was a small leaking, thus requiring close care
2. Hansing Water Softener System Alternative
The next on our list is the Hansing Water Softener System Alternative. This unit weighs 6.29 pounds and has 24.1 x 4.6 x 4.5 inches in dimensions. With this compact sizing, the system works great in a small space.
Due to the use of FNPT stainless-steel threads, the system effectively softens the hard water without phosphorus and sodium needed. Furthermore, we are spared wasted time on programming and adding salt.
Without using harmful chemicals, this system filters water and leaves it with a good taste due to the coconut carbon and fruit polysaccharide. Hence, we can rely on it to have healthy water without a bad taste for our families.
Also, the flow rate of this filtration is quite impressive by adopting a plated filter measuring 0.2 microns only. Moreover, the filtering area it can cover spreads up to 970 square inches.
For people that desire a long-lasting and quality system, this product is an excellent choice. Its 304 stainless-steel construction can resist the damaging effect of high temperature, acid, and alkali, ensuring no corrosion.
- A compact system measures 24.1 x 4.6 x 4.5 inches and weighs 6.29 lbs only
- FNPT stainless-steel threads for easy operation without programming and salt
- Uses coconut carbon and fruit polysaccharide for good-tasting and healthy water
- Impressive flow rate with wide filtration coverage
- Durable 304 stainless-steel construction to resist high temperature, acid, and alkali
- Small leaking can happen
3. Tier1 Essential Salt-Free Water Softener
The Tier1 Essential Salt-Free Water Softener is indeed a great quality water softener. This unit is designed to remove the hardness of the water while retaining minerals or septic chemicals. Thus, we can have fresh water that does not damage water appliances around the house.
Regarding the authority approval for this water softener’s safety, it meets NSF/ANSI 61 standards for health effects. This gave me peace of mind when purchasing and trying the product for the first time.
I found the auto function simple to configure and the installation to be a breeze mainly because all necessary items are packed, including resin tank and scale blend, filter, etc. Also, its operation process is straightforward as no electricity or control valve is needed.
After the processing is finished, the water has no traces of chlorine, which is a complicated problem for salt-free water systems to resolve. It is incredibly effective at removing metals like magnesium, iron, and even copper. In addition, this water softener system performed admirably in maintaining a pH range of 6.5 to 8.5.
- Removes water hardness while retaining minerals or septic chemicals
- A straightforward non electric water softener systems
- No need for salt to operate
- Health effects certified by NSF/ANSI
- A breezy to install with a package of resin tank and scale blend, filter, etc
- Eliminates chroline, magnesium, iron, and even copper
- Costs a rather big investment
4. APEC FUTURA-15 Premium 15 GPM Water Softener
The APEC FUTURA-15 Premium Water Softener & Water Conditioner is designed for around three to six-bathroom homes that include 15 gallons per minute flow rate. Also, it weighs 80 pounds and has 10 x 10 x 54 inches in dimension, not that heavy compared to bulky units out there.
After carefully selecting this unit over the others, I can say without a doubt that I did not regret it. Although the unit is simple to install, connecting them was not easy. Certain connections may be extremely tight if this is your first time, but as long as you are patient with the directions given, you will be able to complete it.
One of the wonderful features of this unit is no requirement for a pre-filter that needs replacing every six months. Additionally, this unit features a weekly automatic backwash. Therefore, we spend less time and money to maintain this system to work smoothly.
Additionally, the water’s taste has improved significantly when compared to unfiltered tap water. It also increased my water consumption, as I was constantly tempted to purchase bottled water outside. Additionally, it made the water feel so smooth and silky.
- For three to six-bathroom homes with 15 gallons per minute
- Not that heavy compared to other models or units (80 lbs)
- No requirement for a pre-filter
- Features a weekly automatic backwash
- Changes were very noticeable: smooth and silky water
- Safe for health and plants
- Connecting the plumbing was a little challenging
5. Aquios Jumbo Water Softener and Filter System
This new version of Aquios Jumbo Water Softener and Filter System is an eco-friendly unit with an all-in-one system that delivers sufficient soft water supply for small to large families.
This multi-purpose system can condition, eliminate scales, and filter. It does work with well water and even with water by the sea. So, for people who travel to a body of water, bringing this water softener no power along is a breeze.
The installation was simple as it takes me only 20 minutes to finish, and there is no complicated programming needed. And the good news afterward is straightforward without using power.
Notably, it is a viable solution for households featuring 1 to 1.5-inch inlets, which often need a high flow rate of water filtration. Also, it is eco-friendly, causing no harm to the environment while supplying healthy water for users.
- Has a compact and portable design
- A multi-purpose system can condition, eliminate scales, and filter
- Easy installation with no complicated programming
- Straightforward operation without using power or salt
- Offers high water flow rate for households featuring 1 to 1.5-inch inlets
- Only a supplementary to a standard water softener
What to Look for When Buying Non-Electric Water Softeners
A water softener works by removing excess minerals from your household’s water. The most common type of water softener is an electric one, which uses a heating element to remove the hardness ions.
Non-electric models do not use electricity and are typically smaller in size. They work by using salt or potassium chloride to remove the hardness ions instead of heat. I will tell you some things you need to consider when buying a non-electric water softener for your household or your business!
You should look for:
- Material. A stainless steel model will last longer and avoid any rusting or corrosion issues that might affect lesser quality metals
- What kind of salt it uses to soften your water. You’ll get better performance with potassium chloride rather than sodium chloride because there are fewer ions in potassium chloride that can lead to scale buildup on faucets and fixtures
- Capacity. How much space it has, and how many people can use the water softener. Those are questions you should ask when buying this product. Usually, an effective device can generate 40,000 gallons before replacement.
- Salt-free. If the water softener is going to be used in a commercial setting, you should look for a model that’s designed to use less salt than what would be needed on an individual basis, sodium chloride). It can also be made into a commercial-grade unit if needed; make sure you get a design suitable for low mineral content.
There are non-electric water softeners that do not require salt anymore for operation. And, one advantage is that it’s best for people who have health concerns associated with sodium.
If you’re on a well and want to have the softest, most conditioned water possible without using electricity or salt, then an ion exchange unit is what you’ll need.
- Set-up process. We should opt for products that allow easy installation. Usually, non-electric water softener systems do not require power or complicated programming. Also, make sure that it’s set up in such a way that none of the plumbing runs uphill, which causes leaks.
Also, non-electric models can be used for individual homes or in large spaces with a high volume of people (like hotels, schools, and hospitals).
There are so many things and benefits that you could look forward to when having your water softener. Make sure to choose the best one for your needs and, most especially, your budget!
Are Non-Electric Water Softeners any Good
One alternative if you’re on a budget but still want to have major house improvement is to purchase non-electric water softeners that use salt or potassium chloride instead of electricity (or salt-free).
These non-electric water softeners have been around for many years because people want an environmentally friendly option without going through expensive installation work. Here, we will talk about how non-electric water softener works and whether or not they’re worth the money.
The best advantage you can get from the non-electric is the price. They are much cheaper than the electric types and don’t require a contractor to install.
The downside is that non-electric water softeners work slower, so you might need more salt or potassium chloride to work properly. They also release minerals into your air during cleaning, leading to health problems such as respiratory illnesses and asthma attacks if not dealt with correctly (usually by adding another filter).
It’s up to the consumer whether non-electric water softeners are worth the money or not because they’re on a budget, but some downsides must be taken into consideration before purchasing them.
But, as you know, technology has evolved, and even those mechanical water softeners have gotten fast these days. So, you need to do extensive research about the possible units that may suit your taste.
Hopefully, the list I have written here would be of good use. Trust me, these units are the best in the market now.
What Size Non-Electric Water Softener Do I Need for my House
You may have noticed that your dishes are becoming increasingly spotty and crusty. Or the water in your house has a strange smell to it. These could be signs of hard water caused by calcium and magnesium ions that get absorbed into the water through contact with limestone or other rocks.
The good news is there’s an easy fix for both these problems! By installing a non-electric water softener on your system, you can reduce hardness levels up to 90%!
Here, we will break down everything you need to know about sizing a non-electric water softener for your house so you can finally enjoy clean, clear waters again!
If you have a small space in your house or wherever your location is, choose a non-electric softener that has a capacity of fewer than 150 gallons.
If you have more than one bathroom or kitchen, go for non-electric softeners that are up to 300 gallons in size as they can be used for the water needs of two people at once!
You will want non-electric units ranging from 500-1000 gallons if your property has four bathrooms and three kitchens. If your house is larger with six or seven spaces where there is running water, choose a non-electric wat ranging from 1000-2000 gallons to ensure everyone’s needs are met.
To find out how much space you need for these sizes, divide each number by 100 (i.e., 125/100=0.125). This tells us that only about 0.125 gallons are needed for each person in the house.
For non-electric units, tanks usually range from 125-2000 gallons in size and are measured by cubic feet (CF) or liters (L). For example, a 1000 gallon non-electric water softener may be 1250 CF of storage space while 2000 gallons would measure 3000 L.
A non-electric water softener can help you get rid of that hard water! These non-electric devices work to soften your tap water without electricity, so they’re great for homes that have limited electrical access or don’t want to deal with circuit breakers tripping when something demands too much juice at once. But, of course, your location matters too; if it’s remote or rural, getting an electric one might no longer be an option.
Non-electric water softeners work by using ion exchange, which replaces hard ions found in the original tap water with softer ones like sodium or potassium. This non-electric unit would use chemicals to pull these ions from your solution and then get rid of them when they’re done being used up so you don’t have to worry about handling any hazardous materials around your house.
Non-electric units are also more durable than their electric counterparts due to fewer parts that can break down, plus they tend to cost less over time since there’s no need for electricity!
Electric vs Non Electric Water Softener
Non-electric and electric water softeners produce similar results in softened water, preventing costly buildup on water-using appliances, preventing white scale buildup on fixtures, sinks, and glassware, and providing a clean, fresh taste.
However, the two systems have significant distinctions. The Kinetico water softener uses a rotating meter to soften the water, whereas electric softeners use an electric timer. Kinetico non electric water softener utilize two tanks connected by a single module to initiate efficient cleaning once the required water has passed through. The non-electric system generates less wastewater, salt, and electricity, resulting in financial savings.
In all-electric systems, there is always the risk of shock. Electrical components, which are frequently exposed to damp, salty environments, are vulnerable to malfunction. With Kinetico Water Softeners, you’re completely safe from the threat of being shocked.
Kinetico systems are industry leaders due to their problem-free operation and unrestricted supply of soft, freshwater. Kinetico systems for non-electric water softeners do not require guest buttons or manual regeneration, and they can be used even when no water is used.
Another thing that you might be interested in is the non electric twin tank water softener. This water softener ensures that there is always soft water available for drinking and cooking.
While the first tank is regenerating, the water softener system automatically switches the flow to the second tank, which contains freshwater. As a result, the system delivers soft water continuously and without interruption.
If you haven’t made the right choice yet. You can read more of our trusted reviews about citric acid water softeners, upflow water softeners and ion exchange water softeners.
Conclusion
If you consider replacing your home’s water softening system, the next critical question is whether the water softening system has been certified for safety and efficiency. Choosing the best non electric water softener is difficult. However, you can use the factors discussed in this article to determine which one is the best fit for you and will meet all of your water needs.
My work as a freelance copywriter allows me to work with Stephen later join Usawaterquality as a content producer. Our team works together to produce high-quality contents that cater to the needs of large companies and households.
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