According to abc17news 90 percent of American homes have hard water with calcium and magnesium minerals.
Sometimes they might not be harmful; however, they could cause scaling plumbing, showerheads, and faucets. Additionally, it impacts the health of your hair and skin.
Eliminating the elements making your water harder is the answer to these issues. What you require is the most effective outdoor water softener. It can remove not just the hardness minerals but also increase water quality.
With thorough research, product comparisons, and direct conversations with various manufacturers, I’ve included an overview of the 9 best outdoor water softeners available in 2023.
A brief list includes only the ones I am genuinely thrilled about due to their durability, performance, and overall value.
9 Best Outdoor Water Softeners
- Best Salt-Based: Whirlpool WHES40E 40,000 Grain
- Runner Up: Aquasure Harmony Series 48,000 Grains
- Budget Choice: Tier1 48,000 Grain High-Efficiency Digital
- Best Salt-Free: AO Smith Descaler System
- Portable RV: PRO+AQUA Water Softener 16,000 Grain
- Portable RV: On The Go OTG4-StdSoft-Portable RV Softener
- NSF-certified: EcoPure EPHS to Reduce Lead, Chlorine, Iron, etc
- Best Space Saver: Pentair WS48-56sxt10 Fleck water softener
- Premium Pick: Durawater FLeck 5600 SXT Outdoor Water Softener
1. Whirlpool WHES40E Water Softener With America-Salt Saving Technology
Specifications
- Grain Capacity: 40,000
- Dimensions: 19″ D x 18″ W x 47 7/8″ H
- Weight: 94.8 pounds
- Iron Removal: 10 PPM
- Item Model: WHES40E
- Color: Off-White
Why It’s a Top Pick
Make sure you choose an NSF-certified company to provide high-quality soft water.
The Whirlpool salt-based water softener has a capacity of 40,000 grains, giving your family and you softened water suitable for daily use.
It is perfect for households with sizes of 1 to 6 and can handle most home chores and ensure that all users have access to soft water.
The mineral buildup and staining on showerheads, water faucets, and even cleaning dishes will soon be a thing of the past.
This device is perfect for larger families with at least six residents. In particular, it will rid the home of up to 10 ppm of iron in clear water.
Whirlpool has been a well-known brand for years and has developed the best outdoor water softener system.
Another great feature of the system is that it can automatically calculate the amount of salt and water that the device requires. In addition, this feature could dramatically reduce water softener salt (potassium chloride) consumption.
Maintenance and cleaning can be scheduled every four months for a typical household and ensure the clean-up of the unit and the scaling that builds up on your showerheads, pipes, and faucets.
Its water-softening capabilities will provide you with high-quality soft water in your home. Make this a worthwhile investment for your appliances, skin, and household.
Features
- Regeneration based on hardness and water usage
- Low salt indicator light
- Compatible with city or well water
- Energy efficient over time
- Easy to program electronics
- Comes with 1-year manufacturer parts, 3-year limited electronics, and 10-year limited on the tanks
- Includes installation kit
Who It’s Best For
Whirlpool water softeners are best for those who want to save energy over time.
It is the perfect option for those using city or well water. It wants to keep its appliances working efficiently, like the water heater and dishwasher.
Final Verdict
To sum it up, Whirlpool WHES40E salt-based softener is an excellent addition to your home as it works to ensure you get the softest water. Nowadays, choosing the right softener is not just about getting high water quality but also ensuring that you enjoy safe tap water daily. With its efficient design, it is also affordable and easy to maintain.
2. Aquasure Harmony Series 48,000 Grains Water Softener with Digital Metered
Specifications
- Grain Capacity: 48,000
- Dimensions: 10 x 10 x 60 inches
- Weight: 120 pounds
- Iron Removal: 3 PPM
- Flow rate: 12 GPM
- Item Model: AS-HS48D
- Color: Black
Why It’s a Top Pick
The Aquasure AS-HS48D Harmony Series of Water Filtration System can make the home alkaline water and supply scale-free.
This outdoor water softener is also the best option for a pool or whole house to handle the upmost 48,000 Hardness-grains.
Its integrated advanced digital console only permits precise backwashing when required, saving hundreds of gallons of water.
The softener treats hard water and eliminates the buildup of spots and scales across the house. It leaves clean water at all faucet outlets.
Water Softener includes high-end resin, one bypass valve, and a full, high-strength, corrosion-resistant fiberglass-lined polyethylene tank.
Softened water is gentler for the skin since it eliminates harmful hard minerals such as magnesium and iron, blocking pores and irritating the skin.
Do you need some additional softness? Push a button, and the system will go into the manual regeneration mode to wash away the hardness and re-build the resin beads to their optimal state.
The water treatment system allows three regeneration types: delay control for time clocks, meter instant power, and delayed rule for meters.
Features
- 48,000 Grain Hardness Treatment
- Digital On-Demand water Meter Control
- Manual double backwash
- Eliminate Scale Problems
- Luxurious Spa-Quality Water
- Brighter and Softer Laundry
- High-strength polyethylene tank
- Energy Efficient
- 5-year manufacturer warranty
Who It’s Best For
The Aquasure Harmony is perfect for any home with 3-4 bathrooms and up to 5 people.
It gives you complete control of the system and optimizes its performance according to your requirements.
It is suitable for people with sensitive skin, as it is free of harsh chemicals.
Final Verdict
After reading, you can feel amazed at how it can make your life easier. With its upgraded features like a digital metered control system and pre-filled premium quality resin, this outdoor water softener will satisfy your every need. Enjoy cheaper bills from a better quality of life with Aquasure harmony in your home!
3. Tier1 48,000 Grain Affordable Whole House Water Softener System
Specifications
- Grain Capacity: 48,000
- Dimensions: 57 x 27 x 15 inches
- Weight: 10.4 pounds
- Iron Removal: 3 PPM
- Flow rate: 11.2 GPM
- Item Model: WS-165-150
- Color: Blue
Why It’s a Top Pick
Feel the pleasure of soft water using The Tier1 Essential series affordable outdoor water softener. Thanks to its LCD and digital meters control valve
, it has reached the pinnacle of technology.
Tier1 has created an incredibly robust 48,000-grain capacity softener
with the most modern technology.
Additionally, the LCD makes it easy to operate and navigate when combined with the upgraded features.
It will aid you in saving on your expenses over the long term since it has high efficiency in energy use.
The capacity of this unit is outstanding. It can prevent limescale buildup on showerheads, plumbing lime, and faucets.
Additionally, you can reap the advantages of soft water, from a cleaner and more convenient cleansing routine to soft, smooth skin.
The unit is a complete set with a control valve, brine tank, resin tubing, drain line, and mechanical parts.
However, if your plumbing at home utilizes PEX or CPVC and you are looking for compression fittings.
This simple unit is excellent for those considering installing a water softener at home.
It may not work with smaller household pumps, so ensure you get the correct dimension before buying one. With its ease of use, this home appliance is a significant investment.
Features
- Digital Meter Head Control Valve
- Improved Features
- Ease of Operation
- Flow Rate (GPM): 11.2
- Operating Pressure (psi): 20 – 120
- Operating Temperature (°F): 40 – 120
- Fully adjustable cycle times
- User-friendly LCD display
- Clear-concise verbiage
- Features time-saving quick connections
Who It’s Best For
This outdoor water softener is perfect for individuals or families who want a quality water solution at an affordable price.
It’s also great for small to medium-sized homes that don’t have the space requirements of other softeners on the market.
People are looking for an easy-to-use and installed water softener; it is the best option.
Final Verdict
Finally, you can enjoy soft water in your taps after using a Tier1 Essential softener. No more bad odors and smells for years to come! It also has an upgraded design that protects the system from potential disasters like flooding.
4. AO Smith Whole House Salt-Free Outdoor Water Softener
Specifications
- Grains Capacity: NA
- Dimensions: 30″L x 9.25″W x 9.25″H
- Weight: 13.22 pounds
- Iron Removal: No
- Items Model: AO-WH-DSCLR
- Color: Black
Why It’s a Top Pick
Here is a great A-O Smith with a salt-free water descaler system for your home.
It is made with a vision to improve customer experience worldwide by offering innovative solutions that meet their needs.
It uses salt-free technology to reduce scale buildup in pipes and plumbing without requiring cleaning, backwashing, or salt bags.
Works effectively on city & well water filters so you can enjoy healthy drinking water anytime.
High Capacity- By using this descaler in your home, you can enjoy 600,000 gallons of cleaner water without worrying about scale buildup in your pipes or plumbing.
Easy Installation- Installing is an easy task that takes only a few minutes to complete.
The unit has detailed instructions on installing the product and, most importantly, how to operate it properly.
Once installed, the unit will automatically activate as soon as there is any water flow in your home’s pipes.
The 6-year warranty ensures you peace of mind when using our product.
Features
- Salt & chemical-free system
- Ideal for homes of 4 or more people
- Long-lasting and cost-efficient
- Includes shut-off valve, hose adapter, and nipple
- For use in drinking, cooking, showering, and bathing
- Reduced scale buildup for up to 6-years
Who It’s Best For
The AO Smith is perfect for people on a low-sodium diet who want to keep their water free of salty taste.
It is the favorite softener for people who want to save money on water bills for a long time.
People with basic DIY skills can easily install and maintain this user-friendly system.
Final Verdict
In summary, It’s easy to use, lasts long, and is affordable. Suppose you are looking for an alternative that works without any added salt, chemicals, or other additives. In that case, we recommend looking at our AO Smith Softener. You can trust this brand to deliver outstanding performance and customer satisfaction since it was founded in 1874.
5. Portable RV Outdoor Water Softener of 16,000 Grain for Outdoor, Boats, Trailers
Specifications
- Grains Capacity: 16,000
- Dimensions: 10 x 10 x 20 inches
- Weight: 34.3 pounds
- Flow rate: 5 GPM
- Item Model: FBA-WS-P-16
- Color: Black
Why It’s a Top Pick
Enjoy the full capabilities of Portable Water Softener Pro. It can treat hard water and is perfect for trailers, RVs, boats, and homes.
This water softener with a broad base can withstand uneven and even surfaces. It comes with an outer wrap comprised of carbon fiber that provides protection and a tank jacket.
It can hold 16,000 grains, which can provide you with the possibility of 2,000 gallons of treated water.
The system displays its 5 GPM and high-flow ports with the lowest water pressure drop.
It’s ready to use in 5 minutes or less with no tools required for power needs.
The process of regenerating this portable water softener is also easy. Within 30 minutes, it’ll be running again.
This water softener has two boxes of table salt. No other specific salt or chemical need for regeneration.
The use of soft water can increase the lifespan of your appliances, like a dishwasher and hot water heater. Apart from that, your skin will gain the most.
However, there’s one minor problem with this outdoor water softener system. It can hold only two pounds of salt. It means that you must refill it more often when you replenish. Therefore, make sure you have additional salts with you.
Features
- 16,000-grain capacity
- Designed for portability and durability
- Measures approx. 10″ x 19.5″ total size
- Regenerates in under 30 minutes
- Comes fully assembled
- Requires no tools or electricity to operate
- Comes with a female-to-female adapter
Who It’s Best For
The PRO+AQUA Water Softener is perfect for RVs, boats, and other outdoor vehicle owners. And who wants a small, easy-to-use unit capable of regenerating quickly while on the road.
It’s small enough to take with you on your travels but still can regenerate under 30 minutes.
Final Verdict
The Pro+Aqua is a top-notch softener that uses advanced technology to treat water. This outdoor water softener can tackle tough hard water with ease. It doesn’t require any house water filter or replacement part for years. With its specifications, you can use it anywhere without worrying about the quality of your drinking water!
6. On The Go OTG4-StdSoft-Portable RV Water Softener for Outdoor, Boats, Trailers
Specifications
- Grains Capacity: 8,000
- Dimensions: 22″ h X 6.75″ dia
- Weight: 18 pounds
- Softens Water: 3 GPG
- Items Model: OTG4-StdSoft
- Color: Blue
Why It’s a Top Pick
On the Go, OTG4-StdSoft is one of the top softening systems for external use. The water softener can keep weighing about 20 pounds of salt.
The unit can soften up to 32,000 gallons of water per year. It can operate at a water pressure of as low as 30 PSI or 193 Kpa using its Pressure regulator valve.
This model is ideal for Marine and RV models. In particular, it has an easy and quick regeneration process, with a fast connection; you can start it up and provide a soft water supply within minutes.
Additionally, the 8,000-grain capacity could regenerate in just 15 minutes by using a tiny box of table salt.
You can prolong the life of your water-based appliances and improve the lathering capabilities of your detergents and soaps.
Are you equipped with the correct equipment for outdoor water softener installation? It is not a problem for this On The Go OTG4 because it’s easy to set up.
There are no tools or electricity required to get this machine running.
Since the outdoor installation is easy, another advantage is that it utilizes the standard garden hose to connect to the park water pipe and outdoor faucets.
This machine gets the job done. Even though other units of a similar model may offer more power, you’ll benefit from its performance and reliability over extended use.
Features
- Easy to carry handle
- Large mouth opening for easy salt addition
- Quick and easy regeneration
- Easy and fast hook up
- Its compact space saver design for the tightest places
- Much lighter weight
- 8,000-grain unit
- Perfect fit for RV/Marine models
- Regenerates in less than 15 minutes
- Provides soft water for up to 20 days
Who It’s Best For
This softener is perfect for any RV/Marine model owner who wants soft water while traveling and camping.
Increasing your RV’s plumbing and water appliances’ life and performance is ideal.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, we know how important it is to have soft, clean water during camping for your family. On The Go Standard Softener is a compact yet powerful softener that provides the ultimate solution for problems caused by hard water. You can even connect and install it yourself with simple steps if you have some basic plumbing skills!
7. EcoPure EPHS NSF Certified Outdoor Water Softener System
Specifications
- Dimensions: 16.5 x 19.75 x 48 inches
- Weight: 92.8 pounds
- Iron Removal: 3 PPM
- Hardness Remove: 100 GPG
- Item Model: EPHS
- Color: Dark Gray
Why It’s a Top Pick
Are you having difficulties with your water? It’s time to purchase a water softener for your home and get rid of the problems caused by hard water usage for all.
Purchase your water conditioner from EcoPure you will be able to find one that will meet your requirements.
This NSF-certified unit functions as a complete water filtration system. In addition, it gets rid of harmful contaminants such as lead, sediments, chlorine, iron, magnesium, and calcium.
The installation process is also easy with the components you require. They can be installed in your home, with or without a cover for the outdoor water softener.
It is easy to maintain thanks to its intuitive, integrated programming controls. Are you concerned if the unit is low in salt? It’s got an indicator light that suggests that the unit isn’t supplying enough salt.
It can accommodate a family size of 1-6+. It also has a hardness removal rate of 100 grains per gallon. With this system, you’ll never have hard water in your home again.
However, there is one small thing that I want to highlight. Contrary to what was mentioned, it is not an exact replacement for the Kenmore. Therefore, it needs that you take your time researching and getting more details.
Features
- The hybrid water softener system
- 31 000-grain capacity
- Keeps your appliances working efficiently
- Lasts longer and saves energy
- Comes with 1-year manufacturers parts, 3-year limited electronics, 10-year tank
- Ideal for families of 1-6+ people
- Increase the lifespan of the appliance by 30-50%.
- Remove the chlorine taste and odor from your water
- Cleans itself automatically
Who It’s Best For
This EcoPure EPHS Hybrid softener is ideal for people who want NSF Certified system to get clean water free from lead, sediments, chlorine, iron, magnesium, and calcium.
Who want to increase the lifespan of their appliances by 30-50%. People with well or city water both can enjoy improved water quality with this softener.
Final Verdict
Now that we’ve explained how soft water can benefit your health, it’s time to make the switch. Celebrate a healthier life with EcoPure softeners and filters in place. This product is also ideal if you upgrade from a simple house water filter because it creates an effective whole-house filtering system that works with any tap.
8. Pentair WS48-56sxt10 Fleck Space Saver Outdoor Water Softener
Specifications
- Grain Capacity: 48,000
- Dimensions: 10 x 10 x 54 inches
- Weight: 130 pounds
- Flow rate: 3.5 GPM
- Item Model: WS48-56sxt10
- Color: Black
Why It’s a Top Pick
The greatest thing about Pentair WS48 56sxt10 space-saver outdoor water softener system is the less-maintenance automated system.
The mobile home softener has a user-friendly electronic display that can provide excellent results in water softening.
It operates using resin beads with a capacity of 48000 grains. However, after a few months, you need to renew the beads by getting rid of any stuck impurities and salts accumulated from the beads.
It is made of a high-capacity resin that can remove calcium and magnesium ions through Ion exchange technology.
The resin will last a long time; therefore, after you have changed it, you’ll do away with managing the softener water.
While it’s not for everyone, the Pentair WS48-56sxt10 Fleck 5600sxt can do the job exceptionally well.
With an easy-to-manage LED display and seamless operation, you won’t need to be concerned about anything going wrong.
I did not want to be stung by a separate softener for washing, one for bathing, and another for a different reason.
Pentair’s fleck 5600sxt assisted me with this, too. The unique system is suitable for all households and provides a soft water supply.
Features
- 48000 grains of hardness removal capacity
- Electronic LED display
- Efficient ion exchange process
- Suitable for all households
- Low maintenance
- Durable resin
- The hybrid water softener system
Who It’s Best For
It is the best for those who want an automated space saver water softener without the hassle of keeping up with multiple devices.
It’s easy to use and manage, so there’s no need to worry about anything going wrong. It can be an excellent choice for anyone who doesn’t want to deal with hard water.
Final Verdict
Pentair WS48-56sxt10 outdoor water softeners can be used for household and business facilities. You need not worry about maintenance since it is automated. When you purchase this product, make sure to also get an essential resin filter for your system. This ensures the best results and maximum health protection for your family’s growth and wellness.
9. Durawater FLeck 5600 SXT Premium Whole House Outdoor Water Softener
Specifications
- Grain Capacity: 48,000
- Dimensions: 15 x 28 x 62 inches
- Weight: 53 pounds
- Item Model: 56-SXT-48K-M
- Color: Black
Why It’s a Top Pick
The Fleck premium whole-house water softener has a 48,000-grain capacity and can treat the hardness of your water. Stains from rust and water residue will not ever bother you again.
This model comes with the most well-known valve from the brand. It’s powered digitally and displays water consumption in real time.
It Fleck 48,000 SXT can also regenerate whenever needed, significantly reducing the time and energy for regeneration.
A hassle-free outdoor installation is something everyone would like from a high-quality water softener. It has everything you need to install; connect it with a water pipe, and you’re ready to go.
The high-quality resin that’s preloaded can last a prolonged duration. The need to change the resin frequently will not be a hassle for you.
In addition, it is worth noting that Fleck also comes with a carbon water filter. Fleck outdoor water softener is equipped with a carbon-based filter and reverse osmosis units.
The capacitor has a memory of up to 48 hours. It will not erase any information in the event of an outage.
Beautiful hair and skin begin by using softened water while you shower. Soft water protects your appliance, like a hot water heater; or dishwasher, from stains caused by iron and mineral residues and increases their lives.
All the features you would expect from a water softener have been included in the Fleck 5600SXT.
Its location in a stable spot in the home can help ease the burden. Overall, this fantastic product can save money through its savings.
Features
- Metered on demand
- Fully programmable control valve
- The 10×54-inch black mineral tank
- 14×34 brine tank safety float
- Comes with necessary fittings for outdoor installation
- Support by professionals to install a water treatment system
- USA Brine Tank with safety float
Who It’s Best For
It is best for homeowners who want the convenience of a metered, on-demand premium water softener without having to worry about timed usage or manually turning the valves.
The system is also perfect for those who want total control over their water hardness and routines.
Final Verdict
From the features, we listed above, it is obvious that the Fleck 5600 SXT softener delivers everything you expect from a top-of-the-line product. This premium model also comes with a timer that allows you to set up schedules for regeneration. You can even install it yourself if you have some basic DIY skills!
What is an Outdoor Water Softener?
A water softener for outside use is an appliance that utilizes salt to remove the hard minerals and produce treated water that you use at home.
After the salts dissolve in water, they’ll bind themselves to impurities such as calcium and magnesium to eliminate them from H20 molecules.
It can be a reasonable solution for businesses and homes. The water from the countryside is not soft, meaning it is unfit for drinking and makes maintenance difficult.
Softened water is safe to drink in the home and less harsh on plumbing, washing machines, cleaning products, and your skin.
What is the Process?
The system utilizes negatively charged resin beads; positively charged metals that dissolve in water are filtered out.
These metals are replaced by faster sodium chloride ions, recognizing that sodium is not hindering the efficacy of soaps and detergents.
The installation of outside water softeners also examines the device’s longevity.
Cleaning outside water softeners is similar to the care you give appliances in the indoor environment.
It must protect from extreme weather (excessive or freezing temperatures) and natural disasters (such as hurricanes and earthquakes).
These elements could harm the appliance in the same way as other equipment. Therefore, to ensure that the softener‘s performance is maintained, the experts have developed two strategies.
The most obvious solution is to put the softener on the ground. Water softener for external use is compatible to last when placed in a sandbag.
Anyone can make an opening in their softener water by renting local augers or using an old-fashioned shovel.
Another option is to put the water softener inside the form of a shed or cabinet.
A variety of cabinets are available for sale designed specifically with outdoor systems.
Some also suggest using lighting fixtures or a simple heater in the cabinet to stop freezing.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Water Softener
Outdoor and indoor softeners for water use the same ion-exchange method to soften water. However, outdoor units should be fit to withstand outdoor elements.
Outdoor models are usually more expensive than indoor models and last around five years on average.
Indoor units must also be able to handle a volume in line with the size of the home because of their smaller footprint and greater need for water filters.
What to Look Out For When Buying An Outdoor Water Softener?
A suitable water softener cannot only perform a great job of taking minerals from the main water supply. There are other elements to be considered before purchasing a product.
It can be a difficult task, but it’s not complicated. You can make an informed choice if you can understand your requirements and compare them with the points we have in the following list.
High Build Quality
It is vital to have an exterior water softener with sturdy construction. There are numerous elements they need to weather.
Check that the softener you’re looking at is suitable for outdoor installation. If it is not, you’ll end up with a water softener that will damage within months.
Grain capacity
The grain capacity of an outdoor water softener is the number of crystals it can hold before they need to be replaced.
A softener with a high grain capacity will last longer and perform better than one with a lower capacity. You should calculate the perfect grain capacity for your softener:
NOTE: – When you have water hardness in MGL or PPM, you can convert it into GPG by dividing 17.1.
For Example, 170PPM of hardness equals 9.9 grains per gallon of hardness.
And with iron presence, you need to add 5GPG for 1PPM of iron when choosing the softener size.
For Example: If you have 17GPG with 3PPM of iron. You need to select 32GPG sized system.
3PPM of iron X5=15GPG of hardness + 17GPG = 32GPG.
With the help of this table, you can quickly know the softener’s grain capacity, which will be perfect for your need (swipe right to see all of the information).
| HARDNESS IN GRAINS PER GALLON | NUMBER OF | THE PEOPLE | IN THE | HOUSE |
| 1 TO 2 | 3 TO 4 | 5 TO 6 | 7 TO 8 | |
| 0-10 | 16,000 GR | 24,000 GR | 32,000 GR | 40,000 GR |
| 11-20 | 24,000 GR | 32,000 GR | 40,000 GR | 48,000 GR |
| 21-30 | 32,000 GR | 40,000 GR | 48,000 GR | 64,000 GR |
| 31-40 | 40,000 GR | 48,000 GR | 64,000 GR | 80,000 GR |
| 41-50 | 64,000 GR | 80,000 GR | 96,000 GR | 1,10,000 GR |
| 51-75 | 64,000 GR | 80,000 GR | 1,10,000 GR | 1,10,000 GR |
| 76-100 | 80,000 GR | 96,000 GR | 1,10,000 GR | 1,10,000 GR |
Maintainability
Opt for a system that has parts that are easily accessible and replaceable. It makes it easy to get replacements from your local hardware store.
It will be an immense favor and prevent you from purchasing the entire unit, which will cost more than buying replacement parts.
Brand
When evaluating brands, check their credibility by looking at how long they’ve been on the market. It will show how many people trust their products.
Furthermore, older brands are more reliable because they’ve been making water softeners for longer.
They will likely upgrade their models to be more effective following years of continuous advancement.
There are, however, brand newer ones that offer quality products. It is essential to decide by analyzing different brands.
Climate
When putting up an outside water softener, ensure that the Temperature doesn’t fall below freezing or get too hot.
If the weather in your area isn’t suitable for installation outside, you could always choose a location with shade or even bury it beneath.
Contact the local hardware store to find out which model is ideal for your family, considering the variety of weather conditions.
Cover and Closure
In addition to prior elements, an enclosure for your outside water softener will be the most effective way to safeguard your equipment.
It will ensure that, no matter what, the weather outside your system will be safe and secure.
There are many choices available in the market based on the model and quality.
Expect to spend between $50 and $150. Be aware of the dimensions of the unit before buying an enclosure.
We’ve covered a few crucial elements you must carefully consider before choosing the best water softener.
Keep these in mind when you look to find a system that’s ideal for your house. Make sure you bring the list along with you.
Cost
The cost of an outdoor water softener will vary depending on the model and included features.
Generally, more expensive water softeners tend to have features such as a larger capacity tank or faster regeneration time.
Some softeners look costly, but their features justify the price.
As you can see in the table:-
| Type | Unit Price Range | Features |
| Salt-Free Softener | $300 – $4,000 | No drain, and the electricity required Salt-free softener Affordable Installation costs $150 – $250 |
| Ion Exchange | $400 – $2,500 | Salt Based Conventional softener Installation costs $200 – $500 |
| Dual Tank Softener | $1,000 – $2,500 | Salt Based Perfect for large households Installation costs $250 – $1,000 |
| Reverse Osmosis (POU) | $200 – $500 | Installs quickly and Affordable Installation costs $150 – $400 |
| Reverse Osmosis (POE) | $4,000 – $12,000 | Complex installation process Expensive Installation costs $250 – $500 |
| Magnetic / Electronic | $150 – $600 | Affordable No drain required Easy installation Salt-free |
| Portable / RV | $150 – $300 | Lightweight, easy to carry Easy regenerate process |
| Commercial | $1,500 – $14,000 | Handles up to hundreds of gallons per minute Big and expensive |
What Kind Of Water Softener Are They Able To Be Installed Outside?
Two kinds of water softeners you can install inside or out. They are salt-based ion exchangers as well as salt-free conditioning.
Salt-Based Ion Exchangers
Salt-based water softeners, also called Ion exchange systems, utilize Ions to remove calcium and magnesium from drinking water.
The soft water systems comprise two tanks that are a brine tank as well as the resin tank.
Many people believe salt-based softeners are the most effective solution for water softening since they remove hardness ions from the main water supply.
The brine tank is a storage place for salt (sodium chloride) introduced into the resin tank via ion exchange.
The sodium ions substitute for the magnesium and calcium ions present in the hard water. And when the mineral tank is overflowing with these minerals, they are flushed out by a regeneration process.
You can know about your water hardness level with the help of this table:
| Degree of hardness | Calcium carbonate: Milligrams per liter | Calcium carbonate: Grains per gallon |
| Soft | 0 – 60 | 0 – 3.5 |
| Moderately hard | 60 – 120 | 3.5 – 7 |
| Hard | 120-180 | 7 – 10.5 |
| Very hard | More than 180 | More than 10.5 |
Salt-Free Conditioners
Salt-free conditioners do not require salt to soften water. They do not technically soften water in any way; instead, they employ the process of Template-Assisted Crystallization (TAC) to “condition” water.
It implies that calcium and magnesium aren’t eliminated from the water. Instead, they’re altered within the TAC media tank.
The softener creates a crystallized outer layer that hinders them from adhering to appliances and pipes.
Salt-free water softeners consist of one tank, making them a little simpler to set up and maintain, mainly since they don’t require salt to run – that’s one less thing to think about.
Can I Install A Water Softener Outdoor?
The climate and Temperature are the most critical factor, especially when you live in a nation region that doesn’t see frigid temperatures and doesn’t have a movable basement (or any basement at all).
The possibility of an outdoor setup might be possible, not only feasible. However, it is also preferable.
The requirements for outdoor water softener installation are usually similar to those for the requirements for an indoor facility.
- You need to install a water softener near the water entry point of your home or outdoor faucets. It can be close to a water meter or a pressure tank if you’re using well water.
- Power should be available close by because the valve’s controller requires the ability to run all its cycles- the near an energy source, the more efficient.
- There needs to be a way for water to drain out the hardness minerals generated near safely.
- You must place it in a location that is easily accessible. Be aware that you’ll have to add salt for softening into your brine tank.
- There should be enough space. It may seem like a no-brainer. However, there must be ample space surrounding the installation site to allow plumbing to run.
Alongside those fundamental needs, there are other aspects that outdoor installation might require.
For instance, it must always avoid direct sunlight because it could cause harm to the mineral tank and controller over time.
Professional installers often choose to set up outdoor units underneath lean-to or in the form of a small storage shed.
How Do I Find The Effective Water Softener Cover To Use Outdoors?
Suppose you are looking for an enclosure to shield the system from the worst conditions in winter. In that case, Covers & All Store is the most effective water softener cover.
It is made of water-proof high-quality synthetic fabric, is snowproof, and is 100% protected from UV light.
Perfect to shield the water softener during its use of it, it’s ventilated. It has air pockets on the sides to assist in air circulation.
This cover for outside water softeners comes in different sizes and is compatible with all water softeners available.
If your unit doesn’t have a regular-size cover, it is possible to request an individual cover.
How to Winterize The Outdoor Water Softener?
If you reside in a more temperate climate and the weather isn’t freezing, you won’t have to freeze the softening of your water.
But, if the softener is in a location where it is likely to freeze, you should prepare it for winter to safeguard it from damage.
If you reside in a colder climate and wish to continue using your water softener all through the winter months, put it inside or in a well-insulated enclosed enclosure.
To prepare your softener for winter, take the instructions below.
- Find the main water valve and close it to stop the softener’s water flow.
- Use a faucet in your home to let the air out within the system.
- Step up into the bypass valve, or close the outlet and inlet valves (depending on the outdoor water softener model). Now you can turn off the water if you want to supply water to the rest of the home.
- Unplug the transformer for the water softener from the outlet on the wall.
- Remove the adapters or bypass valve from the softener. Then take it off and take the brine well out of the way.
- The brine well should be flipped upside down to let the water drain, and then gently set the softener onto the wooden support or on the floor to rid the brine tank.
- After draining all the water out of the system, cover it with a water softener. Please keep it in a closed space.
FAQ
You can store it outside but in a cool place and keep it away from direct sunlight.
The best way to do this is by putting the salt (potassium chloride) into an airtight container with a lid.
You should also ensure that the container has no holes or cracks, as these will allow moisture to get inside.
If you are worried about your salt getting wet, you could put some plastic wrap over the top of the container.
This will prevent moisture from entering but still allow the salt to breathe.
If you’re deciding where to put an outside water softener, consider where you’ll be keeping the salt bags you’ll require to run the softener.
You don’t want to transport the loads to the other side of the property.
Any precautions you follow to install a water softener outdoors must cover it to shield your investment from weather and other elements.
A simple shed for utility will aid in protecting the water softener as well as offer a convenient place to store the salt for water softening which the system will require.
The sunlight in its entirety shouldn’t cause damage to the media tank of an outdoor water softener; however, the UV rays may result in the structure of the fiberglass resin weakening and shrinking.
The same thing can happen to the plastic and other composite materials utilized in the control valve for water softener valves if they are expos to sunlight for some time.
The placement of a water softener a few feet deep in the ground will help keep freezing since it assists in insulating a portion of the tank with the ground.
It is a standard procedure when installing a water system outside, which is said to aid in helping to keep it from freezing.
In burying the water softener in-ground, you guard against theft since it will take some time and noise to dig out and take the system off.
While a water softener is typically only placed in a few feet of soil, it is essential to ensure that it should not bury near any plants or trees.
The tree roots generally do not extend through the water softener’s fiberglass tank. Still, they may grow more tightly within the tank.
It makes it extremely difficult to repair or replace the system when needed.
A landscaping fabric may aid in protecting the bottom of the softener after you have buried it, and putting the dirt around it can help stop pockets of water from forming.
Conclusion
The buying process for the most effective outdoor water softener requires extensive study and consideration.
But, if you’re looking to address the hard water issue in your home effectively, you must locate high-quality equipment that will handle all problems.
Reading reviews and keeping track of the essential factors to consider can significantly increase the chances of securing an excellent outside water softener.
Additionally, it would help to think about your preferences and water consumption to make a wise choice.
We hope you can buy the best unit suitable for your home with the details we have given you.