Whirlpool WHES40E Review

Water softeners are a must-have for households dealing with hard water issues. 

We’ve had the opportunity to test and review the Whirlpool WHES40E, a 40,000-grain water softener designed to tackle hard water problems effectively. This unit promises not only to soften water but also to do so efficiently, thanks to its salt and water-saving technology. 

Let’s dive into the details to see if it lives up to the hype.

Whirlpool WHES40E Water Softener Specs & Features

Before we delve into the specifics, it’s worth mentioning that the Whirlpool WHES40E comes with a range of features designed to make your life easier and your water softer.

Why Specs Matter

Understanding the specs is crucial because they give you a snapshot of what the product can do. For instance, the grain capacity tells you how much hard water the unit can handle before needing regeneration. 

Knowing the specs can help you make an informed decision, ensuring that you choose a water softener that meets your specific needs and expectations.

Whirlpool WHES40E Water Softener Review

Design

The Whirlpool WHES40E sports a compact design that makes it suitable for smaller spaces. We found the unit to be well-built, with a sturdy tank and a convenient display panel for easy operation. 

The design also incorporates a single-tank system, which is a space-saver and easier to manage than dual-tank systems. 

The sleek white finish and modern aesthetics make it a visually appealing addition to your home. The unit is also designed with user-friendliness in mind, featuring an intuitive interface that makes programming a breeze.

Performance

When it comes to performance, this unit doesn’t disappoint. We noticed a significant improvement in water quality, from reduced scale buildup to softer skin and hair. 

The unit’s 40,000-grain capacity is more than sufficient for medium to large households. The WHES40E also features a high-efficiency resin bed that enhances its softening capabilities. 

We were particularly impressed with how well it handled high levels of hardness, effectively removing calcium and magnesium ions from the water.

Regeneration Efficiency

One of the standout features is its demand-initiated regeneration. This means the unit only regenerates when necessary, saving both salt and water. We found this feature to be highly efficient and cost-effective in the long run. 

The system uses advanced algorithms to calculate the exact amount of salt and water needed for each regeneration cycle, minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency. This smart technology ensures that you’re not just saving resources but also money on utility bills.

Flow Rate

With a flow rate of 8.5 GPM, the WHES40E ensures that water pressure remains consistent throughout the house. 

We didn’t experience any noticeable drop in water pressure during our testing, even when multiple fixtures were in use. This is crucial for households with multiple bathrooms or high water usage. 

The high flow rate also means that the system can handle the demands of larger families without compromising performance.

Installation

Installation was straightforward, thanks to the detailed instruction manual. However, if you’re not particularly handy, you might want to consider professional installation. 

The unit comes with a bypass valve and all the necessary connectors, making it easy to integrate into your existing plumbing system. 

We also appreciated the inclusion of a detailed installation guide, complete with step-by-step instructions and illustrations, which made the process even more manageable.

What’s Included?

• Water softener tank
• Bypass valve
• Installation kit
  • Brine tank
  • Drain hose
  • Clips and O-rings
• User manual

The inclusion of these items ensures that you have everything you need to get the system up and running, minimizing the need for additional purchases or trips to the hardware store.

Maintenance

Maintenance is relatively simple. The unit comes with a salt-level indicator, making it easy to know when it’s time to add more salt. 

Regular checks and occasional cleaning are all that’s needed to keep the unit running smoothly. 

The WHES40E also features a self-cleaning filter screen that prolongs the lifespan of the appliance. This is a significant advantage as it reduces the frequency of manual cleanings.

Warranty

The WHES40E comes with a 1-year full parts and labor warranty, a 3-year electronics warranty, and a 10-year tank warranty. This comprehensive coverage gives us peace of mind. 

The warranty terms are quite generous, covering a wide range of potential issues that could arise during the product’s lifetime. This shows that Whirlpool stands behind the quality and durability of its products, which is always a good sign.

Pros and Cons of The Whirlpool WHES40E

What We Liked

• Efficiency: The demand-initiated regeneration saves both salt and water.
• Performance: Effective in softening water and improving overall water quality.
• Design: Compact and well-built, suitable for smaller spaces.
• Flow Rate: Consistent water pressure throughout the house.
• Warranty: Comprehensive coverage for peace of mind.

What We Didn’t Like

• Price: The unit is on the higher end of the price spectrum.
• Installation: May require professional installation for those not handy with tools.

Final Thoughts – Who’s This Softener For?

The Whirlpool WHES40E is an excellent choice for medium to large households looking for an efficient and effective water-softening solution. Its demand-initiated regeneration and high grain capacity make it a standout option. 

However, the higher price point and the potential need for a professional installation could be drawbacks for some.

In the end, the Whirlpool WHES40E is a reliable and efficient water softener that offers excellent performance and a range of useful features. If you’re in the market for a water softener, this is a strong contender worth considering.