Best Budget Water Softeners (Under $1000)

Water softeners are a crucial addition to any home dealing with hard water issues. They help to eliminate minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can cause scale buildup in your pipes and appliances, leading to inefficiency and potential damage. 

However, not everyone has the budget for a high-end water softening system. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best budget water softeners available for under $1000.

Top 3 Budget Water Softeners Under $1,000

Here’s a quick look at our top 3 list of best budget water softeners under $1,000:

• Best Overall: Aquasure Harmony Series
• Best For City Water: Quantum Water Softener AR2
• Most Efficient: Whirlpool WHESFC Pro Series

Budget Water Softeners Comparison Table

Before we delve into the details of each water softener, let’s take a quick glance at our top three picks in the comparison table below:

Each of these water softeners has its unique pros and cons, which we will discuss in detail in the following sections. We’ve taken into account factors such as system type, capacity, flow rate, warranty, and price, as well as user reviews from various sources, including Amazon comments, Reddit threads, and YouTube videos.

Budget Water Softeners Reviewed

1. Aquasure Harmony Series

Features and Specs:

System Type: Salt-Based
Capacity/ Max Hardness: 32,000 Grains
Flow Rate (GPM): 15
Warranty: 2 Years
Price: $550

The Aquasure Harmony Series is a salt-based water softener that offers a great balance between cost and performance which is why it’s mentioned in our list of top softeners.

Priced at $550, it’s one of the more affordable options on our list, but don’t let the price tag fool you. This system is capable of handling a capacity of 32,000 grains and maintains a flow rate of 15 GPM, making it a suitable choice for medium-sized households. It also comes with a 2-year warranty, providing peace of mind for your investment.

Our favorite feature of the Aquasure Harmony Series is its efficiency. During our review, we found that it consistently delivers soft water, reducing the scale buildup in pipes and appliances. Users have also reported a noticeable difference in the softness of their water after installation, which is a testament to its effectiveness.

In terms of installation and maintenance, the Aquasure Harmony Series shines. We found the installation process to be straightforward, and the maintenance requirements are minimal, which is a big plus for those who prefer a hands-off approach.

However, no product is without its drawbacks. Some users have reported that the system’s regeneration cycle can be noisy and disruptive. Additionally, the system may require frequent salt replenishment, which can add to the overall cost over time. 

Despite these minor issues, we believe the Aquasure Harmony Series offers excellent value for its price and is a solid choice for those looking for an affordable, efficient water softening system.

2. Quantum Water Softener AR2 [City Water]

Features and Specs:

System Type: Salt-Based
Capacity/ Max Hardness: 32,000 Grains
Flow Rate (GPM): Not Specified
Warranty: Lifetime
Price: $850

The Quantum Water Softener AR2 is a salt-based system specifically designed for city water. It boasts a capacity of 32,000 grains, making it an ideal choice for medium to large households. The system also ensures that your water pressure remains consistent throughout your home, with a lifetime warranty, and is priced at $850.

Our favorite feature of the Quantum Water Softener AR2 is its high capacity and efficient performance. Users have consistently praised this system for its effectiveness in softening water and improving the lifespan of their appliances. The easy installation process and excellent customer service were also points that we loved about this product.

However, some users have reported issues with the system’s control panel, stating that it can be difficult to navigate. Additionally, the cost of replacement salt can add up over time, which is something to consider when budgeting for this system. 

Despite these minor drawbacks, we believe the Quantum Water Softener AR2 offers excellent value for its price and is a solid choice for those looking for a high-capacity, efficient water softening system.

3. Whirlpool WHESFC Pro Series

Features and Specs:

System Type: Hybrid
Capacity/ Max Hardness: 31,000 Grains
Flow Rate (GPM): 8
Warranty: 10 Years
Price: $600

The Whirlpool WHESFC Pro Series is a hybrid system that functions as both a water softener and a whole home filter. It has a capacity of 31,000 grains and a flow rate of 8 GPM. The system comes with up to a 10-year warranty and is priced at $600.

We loved the Whirlpool WHESFC Pro Series for its dual functionality. The system effectively softens water while also removing other contaminants, improving the overall water quality in your home. It is also easy to install and operate, which is a big plus in our book.

Some users have reported issues with the system’s longevity, stating that it may require repairs or replacement after a few years of use.

Despite these minor drawbacks, we believe the Whirlpool WHESFC Pro Series offers excellent value for its price and is a solid choice for those looking for a dual-function water softening system.

4. iSpring ED2000 Whole House Water Descaler

Features and Specs:

System Type: Electromagnetic
Capacity/ Max Hardness: N/A
Flow Rate (GPM): 10
Warranty: 1 Year
Price: $200

The iSpring ED2000 is a whole house water descaler that uses electromagnetic technology to treat hard water. It doesn’t remove the minerals from water but changes their form so they don’t adhere to surfaces. The system has a flow rate of 10 GPM, and it comes with a 1-year warranty. The price of the iSpring ED2000 is around $200.

We were particularly impressed by the iSpring ED2000’s easy installation and maintenance-free operation. It’s also eco-friendly as it doesn’t use salt or produce wastewater. The system is highly praised for its effectiveness in preventing scale buildup, which is a feature we found to be quite beneficial.

However, some users have mentioned that it doesn’t soften the water in the traditional sense, so you may still experience some hard water effects, like spots on dishes. Also, its effectiveness may vary depending on the mineral composition of your water. 

Despite these minor drawbacks, we believe the iSpring ED2000 offers excellent value for its price and is a solid choice for those looking for an eco-friendly, maintenance-free water softening solution.

5. AO Smith Whole House Water Softener

Features and Specs:

System Type: Salt-Based
Capacity/ Max Hardness: 60,000 Gallons
Flow Rate (GPM): 7
Warranty: 6 Years
Price: $400

The AO Smith Whole House Water Softener is a salt-based system with a capacity of 600,000 gallons. It has a flow rate of 7 GPM, which is slightly lower than other models on this list. The system comes with a 6-year warranty and is priced at $400.

We loved the AO Smith system for its affordability and effectiveness in softening water. It’s also appreciated for its compact design, making it suitable for homes with limited space, which is a feature we found to be quite advantageous.

Some users have reported issues with the system’s longevity, stating that it may require repairs or replacement parts after a few years of use. The lower flow rate may also be a concern for larger households. 

Despite these minor drawbacks, we believe the AO Smith Whole House Water Softener offers excellent value for its price and is a solid choice for those looking for an affordable, compact water softening system.

6. Yarna Capacitive Electronic Water Descaler System

Features and Specs:

System Type: Electromagnetic
Capacity/ Max Hardness: N/A
Flow Rate (GPM): N/A
Warranty: 1 Year (extendable to 10 years)
Price: $300

The Capacitive Electronic Water Descaler System is a salt-free water softener that uses electromagnetic waves to change the properties of the minerals in hard water. It comes with a 1-year warranty that is extendable to 10 years and is priced at $300.

Our favorite feature of this system is its eco-friendly operation. Unlike traditional salt-based water softeners, it doesn’t require any salt or chemicals, making it a more environmentally friendly choice. The system is also maintenance-free and easy to install, which we found to be quite advantageous.

However, some users have reported that the system may not be as effective as traditional salt-based water softeners. The effectiveness may also vary depending on the hardness and mineral composition of your water. 

Despite these minor drawbacks, we believe the Capacitive Electronic Water Descaler System offers excellent value for its price and is a solid choice for those looking for an eco-friendly, maintenance-free water softening solution.

7. Kenmore 350 Water Softener

Features and Specs:

System Type: Salt-Based
Capacity/ Max Hardness: 32,000 Grains
Flow Rate (GPM): 90
Warranty: 1 Year
Price: $550

The Kenmore 350 is a salt-based water softener with a capacity of 32,000 grains. It has a flow rate of 90 GPM and is priced at $550. The system comes with a 1-year warranty for parts and labor, 3 years for electronics, and 10 years for tanks.

We loved the Kenmore 350 for its high capacity and efficient performance. Users have consistently praised this system for its effectiveness in softening water and improving the lifespan of their appliances. The user-friendly interface and easy installation process were also points that we loved about this product.

Some users have reported issues with the system’s longevity, stating that it may require repairs or replacement after a few years of use. The 1-year warranty is also shorter compared to other systems on this list, which is something to consider when making your decision. 

Despite these minor drawbacks, we believe the Kenmore 350 offers excellent value for its price and is a solid choice for those looking for a high-capacity, efficient water softening system.

What Are Cheap Ways to Soften Water?

If you’re on a tight budget, there are several inexpensive ways to soften water. These methods may not be as effective as a whole-house water softening system, but they can still help to reduce the hardness of your water.

Showerhead Filters

Showerhead filters are a cost-effective solution to soften water. They work by filtering out the minerals that cause hardness in water. While they only treat the water in your shower, they can help to reduce the effects of hard water on your skin and hair.

Faucet-Mounted Water Filters

Faucet-mounted water filters are another affordable option. They attach directly to your faucet and filter out minerals and other contaminants from your water. They’re easy to install and can be a good option for treating drinking and cooking water.

Water Pitchers with Built-In Filters

Water pitchers with built-in filters are a portable and affordable solution for softening water. They’re ideal for small households or for people who only need to soften a small amount of water at a time. They’re also great for people who live in apartments or who are renting and can’t install a whole-house water softening system.

Cheap vs. Expensive Water Softener

When comparing cheap and expensive water softeners, it’s important to consider not only the initial cost but also the long-term maintenance and operating costs.

Initial Costs

Cheap water softeners may be more affordable upfront, but they may require more frequent maintenance and have a shorter lifespan. On the other hand, expensive water softeners may have higher initial costs but can offer better performance, efficiency, and longevity.

Operating and Maintenance Costs

Cheap water softeners may have lower initial costs, but they can end up costing more in the long run due to higher operating and maintenance costs. They may require more frequent salt replenishment, which can add up over time. They may also have a shorter lifespan, which means you may need to replace them more often.

Expensive water softeners, on the other hand, may have higher initial costs, but they often have lower operating and maintenance costs. They may be more efficient, requiring less salt and less frequent maintenance. They may also have a longer lifespan, which can save you money in the long run.

Performance and Efficiency

Cheap water softeners may be less efficient and less effective at softening water than more expensive models. They may have a lower capacity, which means they may not be able to handle the water demands of larger households.

Expensive water softeners, on the other hand, often offer superior performance and efficiency. They may have a higher capacity, which means they can handle the water demands of larger households. They may also be more effective at softening water, which can improve the lifespan of your appliances and plumbing.

Ultimately, when choosing between a cheap and an expensive water softener, it’s important to consider your specific needs and budget. While a cheap water softener may be more affordable upfront, an expensive water softener may offer better value in the long run.

Cheap vs. Expensive Water Softener Comparison Chart

Water Softener	System Type	Capacity/Max Hardness	Flow Rate (GPM)	Warranty	Price
Aquasure Harmony Series	Salt-Based	32,000 Grains	12	5 Years	$500
SpringWell FutureSoft Salt-Free Water Softener	Salt-Free	Unlimited	12	Lifetime	$1,800

As you can see, the SpringWell FutureSoft Salt-Free Water Softener offers unlimited capacity and a lifetime warranty, but it comes at a much higher price. On the other hand, the Aquasure Harmony Series offers great value for its price, but it has a limited capacity and a shorter warranty.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best budget water softener depends on your specific needs and budget. While all the water softeners on this list offer great value for their price, it’s important to consider factors like capacity, flow rate, warranty, and user reviews before making a decision. 

Remember, the best water softener for you is one that fits your budget and meets your specific water softening needs. After all, the goal is to improve the quality of your water without breaking the bank.