Fleck is a respected manufacturer of industrial-grade water systems including water softeners, water filters, valves, structural tanks, and more. This write-up reviews three of the company’s most popular water softeners. The table below is an overview of the three models.
For more information about water softeners, check out The Ultimate Water Softener Buyer’s Guide.
Fleck Water Softener Reviews
Model | Tank | Grain Capacity | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
Fleck 5600 SXT | Single | 24,000-96,000 | Control 5 Years/ Tank 10 Years |
Fleck 7000 SXT | Single | 32,000-96,000 | Control 5 Years/ Tank 10 Years |
Fleck 9100 SXT | Twin-Alternating | 24,000-80,000 | 5-Years on the Valve and Electronics. |
Fleck 5600 SXT
The 5600 SXT is among the most popular water softeners currently available. The model also comes with a wide selection of sizes to provide softening capacity from 24,000 to 96,000 grains per cycle, which covers a wide range of household water demands. The “SXT” in the model number refers to SXT control electronics, an upgrade over the classic mechanical meter.
The Noryl valve body ensures reliable water flow. Every connection is via piston, seal, and spacer for the ultimate durability. In addition, the water softener uses fewer parts than mechanical models, which lowers chances of failures and increases reliability.
No matter which 5600 SXT size you choose, you will get the benefit of Fleck’s On Demand Metered Control. This feature allows you to set up the softener according to your needs and preferences. The result is a more efficient performance that uses up to 40% less salt.
The flow rate varies according to the size, which also has different requirements for pipe diameter. For example, if you go for the 40,000 grain capacity version, the flow rate is 12 gpm (gallons per minute). This goes up to 20 gpm for the 70,000 grain version. Best of all, the percentage difference in price is small as you step up in capacity.
In addition, the softener’s settings can be saved for two days in case of a blackout. This is the most affordable Fleck water softener, but it’s actually mid-priced by other manufacturers’ standard. The designed is industrial – a cylinder (with valve and control system) and a tank. But you can also order it in a chassis that looks more than like consumer-grade water softeners.
Pros
Cons
Best for: The Fleck 5600 SXT is an excellent budget option (by Fleck’s standard) for a wide range of households with any municipal water conditions (just select the size accordingly).
Fleck 7000 SXT
This particular Fleck water softener is designed with larger homes in mind. As with all other Fleck models, 7000 SXT comes in different sizes, from 32,000 to 96,000 grains per cycle. Another thing that makes it suitable for large households is the 1 ¼ -inch internal porting which is compatible with pipes of up to 1.5” diameter. This allows for higher flow rate and lower pressure drops (vis-à-vis the same flow rate of water in a smaller pipe).
The unit comes with three different plastic or brass bypasses (¾, 1, 1¼ -inch). The 2310 Safety Overflow Assembly prevents potential flooding.
Once you program the unit, you don’t have to go back and tweak additional settings to get the best performance. Like all fleck models, the 7000 SXT features an internal capacitor to keep the settings intact for 48 hours. The non-volatile memory standard ensures you never lose any of the softening settings.
Even the 32,000-grain-per-cycle model provides exceptional water flow rate of up to 25 gpm, which is expected considering the size of the fittings.
Pros
Cons
Best for: This Fleck softener is a great option for large households with high soft water demand.
Fleck 9100 SXT
The 9100 SXT is a dual-tank design with zero downtime and other advanced characteristics to address any water demands and conditions.
This unit has all the Fleck-signature features which keep maintenance at a minimum and ensure smooth and efficient operation.
When it comes to softening capacity, 9100 SXT offers a range between 24,000 and 88,000 grains per cycle. This unit can deliver an amazing water flow of up to 25 gpm (the largest capacity version), which is sufficient for households of 8 with up to 4 standard bathrooms. If this performance isn’t enough, there are a few optional upgrades to choose from.
You can choose a turbulator upgrade to keep the resin clean for years. This upgrade is only for water with low iron levels of up to 0.5ppm. If the iron level in your water is between 0.5 and 5 ppm, you can go for the fine mesh resin upgrade that increases efficiency and cuts down regeneration time.
Pros
Cons
Best for: If you are looking for a reliable and durable softener that can meet the demands of your large household, the 9100 SXT is a great option.
How Does Fleck Compare to Other Brands?
Fleck is an industry leader in high efficiency water softeners. The models are characterized by an industrial design featuring a cylindrical ion exchange tank and a separate brine tank. If you’re enamored by the looks of a regular household water softener, you can also order a Fleck water softener with such a chassis that covers it all up.
Unlike brands like Culligan and Kinetico, Fleck has a network sale channel. The network sale channel should make it easier to find the right softener for your home or business. In addition, you can get a Fleck water-conditioning unit directly from the Fleck Systems website and get some amazing discounts on your purchase.
FAQs
1. Can you use Fleck water softener for industrial purposes?
The simple answer to this question is yes, you can. Some of the models listed in this write-up can work great for small and medium-size businesses. However, if your company requires a specific water-conditioning unit, it would be advisable to consult with a local water specialist. Either way, you should be able to easily find the Fleck model that fits your needs.
2. How to choose a Fleck water softener?
The first thing you need to consider is the size of your household and your water consumption needs. In addition, you should have a clear understanding of how hard your water actually is. Other water conditions such as non-ferrous iron presence shouldn’t be overlooked either. It is advisable to consult with your local water specialist or Fleck sales representative to get advice about the Fleck model that is best for you.
3. Can you install a Fleck water softener outside?
In general, installing a Fleck softener outside might be possible but it’s not practical. First of all, water will freeze in the winter and wreak havoc. There’s also the high temperature range to worry about. For example, the valve on the 5600 SXT has a 110 °F temperature rating which can be problematic even though most areas in the US don’t hit that kind of temperature, but the valve is metal and the sun can heat it to above ambient temperature.
Conclusion
Fleck water softeners can cover a wide range of household needs. They come with advanced digital meters for easy setup and maintenance. In addition, every model comes in a wide range of size/capacity to fit any budget and water consumption. They can all be upgraded to more advanced parts and to include a water filter.