Water is one of the most important resources known to man, just behind oxygen. Without water, we can survive for no more than three days and if we get even slightly less than we need, then we will suffer a range of unpleasant side effects and negative health consequences.
But it’s not just the quantity of our water that’s important. Just as critical is the quality and the purity.
Then there are all the other things we use water for: from washing ourselves to cleaning our homes. This is another reason that the quality of our H2O is so vital – it will impact on nearly everything that we do.
Improving the quality of your water will make everything from bathing to doing the washing up more pleasant and more enjoyable. Oh and it can protect your appliances too and help you get more use out of them. More importantly, it will improve the health and safety of your entire family as well!
So, with that in mind, how do you go about ensuring that you have the best water possible? How can you invest in the quality of your water for the sake of your household?
The answer is to use a water softener and the best system for this job is always going to be one from Aquios. Aquios is the only company that provides an all-in-one system to both filter and soften your water using a salt-free process.
In this comprehensive buyers’ guide, you’ll learn what that means, why Aquios is the best choice and how you can go about finding the right system for your home.
Top Aquios Water Softener & Filtration System | Dimensions | Reviews | Average 5 Star | Image | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Aquios FS-220L Salt Free Water Softener and Filtration System | 11 x 16 x 26 inches | 10+ | Over 15% | Check Prices | |
Aquios FS-220C Salt Free Water Softener and Filtration System | 27 x 10 x 8 inches | 60+ | Over 40% | Check Prices | |
Aquios FS120 Mini Full House Water Softener and Filter System | 5.5 x 5.5 x 13.3 inches | 1+ | 0% | Check Prices | |
Aquios AQF236 Jumbo Water Softener and Filter System | 26 x 16 x 11 inches | 1+ | 0% | Check Prices |
Why Soften Your Water?
Page Contents
- 0.1 Why Soften Your Water?
- 0.2 Is My Water Hard?
- 0.3 Why Aquios
- 0.4 Salt vs Salt Free Water Softeners
- 0.5 Purification
- 1 Choosing Your Aquios System
- 1.1 Aquios FS-220L Salt Free Water Softener and Filtration System
- 1.2 Aquios FS-220C Salt Free Water Softener and Filtration System
- 1.3 Aquios FS120 Mini Full House Water Softener and Filter System
- 1.4 Aquios AQS400 Salt-Free Water Softener
- 1.5 Aquios AQFS236 Jumbo Water Softener and Filter System
- 1.6 Aquios AQFS236L Jumbo Water Softener and Filter System With VOC Reduction
- 1.7 Aquios AQFS234 Jumbo Water Softener and Filter System
- 1.8 Aquios AQFS234L Jumbo Water Softener and Filter System with VOC Reduction
- 1.9 Conclusion
When you hear the word ‘hard’, you probably think of materials like metal or rock – not water! But be that as it may, it is indeed possible for water to be harder or softer, which is in turn related to the mineral content.
Hard water is water that contains a lot of minerals, some of which are metals such as magnesium and iron and others of which include calcium etc. In other words, your water contains trace amounts of metal and the substances that form bone – so it really is ‘hard’ in a literal sense.
Now, we know that some substances are intentionally added to the water by local governments in a bid to fortify our health. Things like fluoride are added to the water for example as they can help to keep our teeth cleaner.
But most of the minerals and heavy metals found in our water come from the environment. This is why certain regions will have harder or softer water. That’s also what’s responsible for the differences in taste and feeling when you visit family in other states and drink from their taps.
If you take a look at a map of the U.S., then some states will have much harder water than others. These include Arizona, Colorado, Texas and others, all of which have more minerals in their water supply.
So, what does this mean for you? Is it dangerous to drink hard water?
For the most part, the answer is no. The minerals in your water are generally fine in the doses that you’re likely to get them – while it is possible to overdose on calcium, it is unlikely that this would happen from drinking water.
That said, hard water does create a number of other issues which is why a lot of people will choose to actively soften their water.
A few reasons that people soften their water include:
Limescale
Limescale is the chalky-colored crust that you can find inside your kettle and occasionally in your mugs. This substance is made from dissolved mineral deposits which have built-up over time and it’s not terribly pleasant.
Take a look inside your kettle and you’ll find that there are probably lots of these flaky pieces of limescale surrounding the bottom. These are large amounts of calcium and magnesium that really aren’t ideal to eat in large chunks. What’s more, is that they have been sitting there for long periods of time and have passed through the pipes and other systems on the way to your kettle. If you should get them in your tea and accidentally swallow them, you’ll find that they crunch or get stuck in your teeth and ruin the flavor.
Fortunately, most kettles have a built-in filter that prevents limescale from making it into your mugs. That’s why you won’t normally encounter it when you pour tea and coffee. Nevertheless though, it’s still there and small amounts will make it into your brews. Not a nice thought!
Appliances
Another important consideration is that limescale can actually end up damaging your appliances and preventing them from functioning properly.
It is said that using softened water will actually extend the lifespan of your washing machine, dishwasher and other appliances. This makes sense when you consider that your water can otherwise leave mineral deposits in the pipes and filters which eventually prevent water from flowing normally.
It is also thought that softer water will lead to better function, as you aren’t washing your plates and clothes with water containing limescale deposits!
By using softened water, you can ensure that your washing machines and dishwashers remain running smoothly and that your clothes and crockery come out looking pristine as a result.
Bathroom Fittings
Likewise, limescale can also make its way onto your bathroom fittings along with ‘water marks’ (stains) left by condensation and tap water.
In the bathroom, limescale can be found in the bath, on the bathroom tiles, in the sink, around the toilet, on the taps and even on the inside and outside of taps. This is unsightly and it’s hard to wash off, which makes for more work and negatively impacts on the look and feel of your home. In fact, limescale can end up becoming so encrusted around the faucet of your tap that it can’t be removed and you have to replace it early! This is costly and far from convenient.
Preference
Many people find that softer water is simply preferable to harder water. When washing, it is said that it is easier to get a good lather using softer water. This makes it more effective for washing plates and dishes but it also means that it will be more enjoyable to use in the shower.
Likewise, some people find that the taste of soft water is preferable. You may well feel this way if you have lived in a region with soft water and then moved to a harder water area. In that case, softening your water can make it more ‘homely’ and help you to enjoy a purer taste.
Can you drink softened water? The answer is a little more complex but suffice to say that the answer is yes as long as you know what you’re doing – we’ll cover this in a moment.
Is My Water Hard?
So now you know why you might choose to use a water softener, the next question is whether you need one yourself. Perhaps you can’t taste whether the water is hard, or maybe you’ve always lived in the same area and you have no basis for comparison?
Likewise, you might be wondering whether your current water softening system needs replacing. Tip: they tend to last about 20 years with maintenance. Upgrading to a newer system can help you to save water and energy though, as they tend to be more efficient.
The best option is to test the situation yourself. To do this, take a clear water bottle and fill it so that it is half full (8-10 ounces). Now squirt in some drops of pure soap and shake it well. If you notice a scummy film form, then this is a sign that you have hard water and you should consider getting a water softener. If your water is good and soft, then you will find that your solution is filled with suds and looks ready to wash with.
Alternatively, for under $20 it is possible to purchase a ‘water-hardness’ test kit. These include strips that you can place in the water and then check the color of against a chart.
Why Aquios
So why choose Aquios for your water softening solution?
While there are a few companies out there that manufacture water softeners, Aquios is one of the leading brands and is well trusted and reviewed in the industry. The company appears to really be focussed on delivering a high quality product and has been around for a while, ensuring that it has managed to develop a good reputation for its.
Another reason that we have chosen to feature Aquios in this buyers’ guide, is that the company provides a wide range of different products and solutions. These include simple water softeners, as well as water softeners that include filtration systems to help purify your water at the same time as softening it.
Most importantly though, Aquios uses a salt-free system for softening its water, which is not true of all water-softeners. And it is the only salt-free + filter system that is available for residential use.
In other words, if you’re looking for just one system that does everything and softens your water while making it safer to drink, then Aquios is the only choice. That’s why we haven’t featured any other manufacturers in this guide!
Top Aquios Water Softener & Filtration System | Dimensions | Reviews | Average 5 Star | Image | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Aquios FS-220L Salt Free Water Softener and Filtration System | 11 x 16 x 26 inches | 10+ | Over 15% | Check Prices | |
Aquios FS-220C Salt Free Water Softener and Filtration System | 27 x 10 x 8 inches | 60+ | Over 40% | Check Prices | |
Aquios FS120 Mini Full House Water Softener and Filter System | 5.5 x 5.5 x 13.3 inches | 1+ | 0% | Check Prices | |
Aquios AQF236 Jumbo Water Softener and Filter System | 26 x 16 x 11 inches | 1+ | 0% | Check Prices |
Salt vs Salt Free Water Softeners
A lot of water-softening systems work by adding sodium ions (salt) in order to replace the ions from other minerals. This is essentially replacing some unwanted contaminants with a new one!
Is salt bad for you? Not necessarily. Recent research suggests that salt has actually been something of a scapegoat for many health issues in much the same way that saturated fat has been. However, it is still not completely off the hook and there’s still a good chance that it can cause some issues when consumed in large quantities. Moreover, if you have certain health conditions or are on a low sodium diet, then you should aim to avoid consuming too much sodium.
And then there’s the fact that salt can make your water taste a little… well salty. This makes it unsuitable for drinking in cups of tea, for making squash or even just for drinking plain in many cases.
Many water softeners only work by adding salt and will require large amounts of softener salt to be added regularly – which costs money and creates another maintenance job that you have to perform. You’ll often find yourself going through more than a bag in a single month!
Salt can also lead to corrosion of water pipes and potentially even create some health risks related to the iodization process.
But this is where companies like Aquios are different. Aquios softens water without using any salt, which makes it far more effective.
Aquios’ system uses a single cartridge that simultaneously conditions and filters the water right at the point of entry into your home. This process is completely free from salt or potassium and is the exact same method that has been in use by the commercial food industry for many years now.
Salt-free systems are less expensive to buy than salt-based alternatives in most cases, they are free from chemicals and they are very easy to install. Unlike salt-based water softeners. There are some downsides however. For one, salt-free systems do not reduce the hardness by quite as much as the salt-based systems – in fact, they don’t meet the official standard of under 1 grain per gallon that is set by the WQA.
But this is not as big as a problem as it might sound. For starters, there is no harm in having small amounts of calcium and magnesium in your water – in fact, it is good for you. What’s more, is that these types of water softeners will neutralize those contaminants and thereby prevent them from sticking to surfaces and forming limescale – so you get the positive benefits without the negatives.
This works via a filter containing a polyphosphate additive called siliphos which inhibits scale deposits and gradually reduces build-up over time.
Purification
On top of the impress salt-free water softening capabilities of an Aquios system, you will also benefit from filtration, which removes the more serious and unwanted contaminants from your water. This has nothing to do with minerals but rather includes things like fluoride which is added to tap water in order to improve our teeth but is actually a neurotoxin. Filtration can also help to remove arsenic, chlorine and a range of other harmful substances that we otherwise consume through our tap water.
The Aquios filtration system uses activated carbon filters in order to remove these substances. This is a highly porous form of charcoal that water can pass through but which attracts and traps toxic substances during the process.
Having a simple all-in-one system to purify water while softening it, means that you will be able to drink clean, healthy water while avoiding damage to your home appliances. The Aquios system is able to remove 98% of the odor and taste of chlorine, it can reduce iron, prevent rust and avoid sediment.
Healthy, beneficial minerals that are needed in the diet are not removed but ‘sequestered’, while harmful toxins are removed right at the source.
And when you calculate the cost, this is also the most efficient and cost effective way to get all those benefits for your home. All systems also come with a 20 year warranty and a 60 day money back guarantee.
Choosing Your Aquios System
With that in mind, there are a large number of different water filter systems from Aquios to consider, ensuring that you should be able to find one to match your budget and your circumstances. Read on for our full breakdown of each of these systems.
Aquios FS-220L Salt Free Water Softener and Filtration System
Overview
This is a salt-free water softening and filtration system from Aquios that provides a commercial grade descaling process while also filtering out toxins and other unwanted additives. This is a compact unit that is easy to install and which requires no electrical power. Filtration is rated at 5 microns.
Key Features
Aquios requires no maintenance, programming or even electricity making it one of the simplest systems to install. Also impressive is the commercial strength conditioning and filtration and the 6-month/40 gallon cartridge life. A 40,000 gallon cartridge is included.
Despite its small form factor, the FS-220 is an all-in-one system that will not just neutralize water hardness but also remove lead and other contaminants.
Pros
This system is a very small, compact and easy to use filter and conditioner. It offers the benefits of having an all-in-one solution from Aquios while requiring no mains power and only infrequent cartridge changes. For those that are pushed for space, a solution such as this or an in-line filter are the only options.
As a salt-less system, the FS-220 requires no heavy bags of salt and won’t corrode pipes or change the flavor of your water. By removing limescale, you get all the benefits that come from any other softener – including better water pressure and lessened degradation of household appliances.
Finally, the carbon filters will also remove a large amount of unwanted toxins, improving the health of your family.
Cons
As a slightly smaller and unpowered unit, the FS-220 will require more frequent cartridge changes and be slightly less comprehensive than some of the larger solutions. The gains of hardness will be lowered by this system and minerals will be reduced, but other systems we will look at will have a more profound impact on your water hardness and may be preferable.
One other big downside? For those that want a more thorough filtration, the similar Aquios FS-220C retails for the same price but filters water down to 1 micron – making it the smarter purchase.
Verdict
Overall, this is a great system that will provide extensive softening and make your water healthier and tastier to drink. For those with more space or a bigger budget however, a more thorough system may be a better option.
For those that like the FS-220L, the FS-220C (below) is the superior option.
Aquios FS-220C Salt Free Water Softener and Filtration System
Overview
The Aquios FS-220C, like the FS-220L, is a compact all-in-one water softener and activated carbon filter. This product comes with many of the same specifications as the FS-220C and retails for the same price – the only difference is that the filtration is rated at 1 micron, rather than the 5 microns of the FS-220L. This makes it the superior product, especially with all other features being equal.
Key Features
The Aquios FS-220C has a slightly different visual style compared with the 220L as well, now coming with a clear housing. This is a perfect choice for those looking to soften their water while also removing substances such as lead and chlorine. Like all Aquios products, this system does not remove the healthy minerals such as calcium and magnesium but simply neutralizes them to eliminate limescale. The result is better tasting water with no chlorine smell and longer lasting appliances.
Like the FS-220L before it, the 220C requires replacement cartridges every 4-6 months or once every 40,000 gallons.
Pros
For those without space for jumbo systems, the FS-220L and C both offer a compact all-in-one solution at a very reasonable price. All parts necessary for installation (mounting bracket, mounting hardware and wrench) are included, as is a single cartridge and the usual 20 year warranty and money back guarantee.
As with all water softeners, the FS-220C brings a large number of benefits which include tastier water, reduced chlorine odor, reduced discoloration and reduced limescale. Products will last longer and your family will enjoy better health without risk of fluorosis or lead toxicity.
As a salt free system, the FS-220C will not corrode pipes and won’t add sodium to your diet. No more heavy bags of salt necessary!
Cons
This unit while able to offer a greater filtration and softening function than the FS-220L, still falls short of some of the larger systems we will look at in this post.
The other con is that like any salt-free system, calcium and magnesium are not actually removed, only neutralized. This is not really a ‘con’ seeing as these minerals are actually very beneficial for the human body – but some will consider it a downside if they prefer the thought of completely reducing the grains of hardness in their water.
Verdict
While not as powerful as the jumbo systems, the compact and convenient Aquios FS-220C is still a powerful and capable system that won’t take up much space and will improve the quality of your water right at the source. It looks great with the translucent design and offers excellent value for money. Among the smaller units, this is one of the best options for your water softness and purity.
Aquios FS120 Mini Full House Water Softener and Filter System
Overview
Like the previous two models on this list, the Aquios FS120 system is a compact water softener and filter system.
The big difference is that this system is even more compact than those two systems and is designed for condominiums, apartments and other smaller properties under 1200 square feet.
This product is also less powerful than some other options – including other compact models such as the FS-220C.
Key Features
The Aquios FS120 ‘Mini’ water softener is used to filter water in smaller properties. Despite the name ‘full house’, it is actually aimed at flats and other locations.
Under those circumstances, the water softening and filtration capabilities are similar to those of the FS-220L (not as good as the FS-220C).
The system includes a 5 micron carbon block to reduce chlorine, lead and other impurities. Cartridges have a shorter lifespan of 3 months or 15,000 gallons.
Pros
This is a smaller version of an already compact unit. This is ideal for those that are pushed for space and don’t have room for one of the jumbo systems.
Being smaller, this product is also more affordable. Those looking to get cleaner and clearer water without breaking the bank can do so thanks to ‘lesser’ options like the FS120. The price along makes this a good choice for those that are interested in softening or purifying their water but don’t want to splash out (no pun intended) right away.
As a salt-free system, the FS120 also comes with a number of other benefits. For starters, this product will not risk corroding pipes and other fittings and it won’t add sodium to your diet or change the taste of your water.
Cons
For some, the 5 micron filter will not be enough. Likewise, the system will still leave some hardness in the water.
It is worth reiterating the difference between salt-based and salt-free water softeners however. If you read reviews of these products on Amazon, you will find that several comment that testing strips find there to be little or no difference in water hardness. Remember: a salt-less water softener does not actually remove the minerals from the water, but rather neutralizes them in order to prevent limescale build-up. Many people find this option preferable as remember: calcium and magnesium etc. are actually good for us in the right quantities. Sodium meanwhile, is less desirable.
Still though, for those looking for perfect water softness, this is not the most comprehensive solution available.
Finally, note that this system requires more frequent exchange of cartridges. While the guidelines recommend 3 months, it is pertinent to remember that this is intended for homes with less space and so it actually corresponds to 15,000 gallons. That’s less than half of the FS-220C or FS-220L, so you need to factor this in when considering price.
Verdict
Overall, the FS120 is a good unit as long as you know what you are getting. This is a less comprehensive clean aimed at smaller flats.
Aquios AQS400 Salt-Free Water Softener
Overview
This water softener from Aquios is comparable with the FS-220C and FS-220L from the company.
However, unlike those other systems, this is only a water softener and does not include filtration benefits. This may be preferable for those that are happy with the purity of their water and not concerned with lead or fluoride content. Likewise, it is a good option for those who already have a filter system installed.
At the same time, this allows for more attention to be placed on other key benefits of a softener system.
Key Features
The AQS400 is a salt-free water softener only and uses siliphos as a medium with no carbon.
This gives you the immediate benefit of needing to exchange cartridges less often – once every 8 months or 60,000 gallons. Seeing as the AQS400 is already slightly cheaper than the FS-220 series, this makes it potentially a more cost-effective solution overall.
All the same softening benefits exist. This does not remove minerals but rather neutralizes them in order to prevent scale from forming and to reduce other negative benefits.
Like the other smaller units from Aquios, the AQS400 requires no bags of salt, no wasted water and no electricity. It has a compact design that is suitable for those with less space and includes a shut off and bypass valve.
Pros
Compared with other products from Aquios, this option will require less frequent cartridge changes, thereby saving users both time and money.
As a salt-free water softener, users will have all the benefits of softer water including longer lifespans for their appliances, easier lather, whiter clothes and no build-up on bathroom fittings. At the same time, the lack of salt means no additional sodium in your diet and no corrosion of pipes.
Cons
The downside of this product is of course the lack of filtration. For those with other water filter systems already in place, this won’t be a problem. For everyone else, this is a big omission and one you should consider looking into.
Verdict
For people with other water filtration systems in place, the AQS400 is a more cost effective and efficient solution. For everyone else, we recommend the FS-220C over this unit.
Aquios AQFS236 Jumbo Water Softener and Filter System
Overview
This is the first product in Aquios’ range of ‘jumbo’ water softener and filter systems. These are intended for
commercial applications or situations where higher flow rates are required. I other words, this is an option for those that live in very large homes, or for businesses.
Key Features
The main difference with these jumbo systems is the larger diameter housing, which allows higher flow rates. Thanks to these jumbo systems, larger buildings and businesses do not need to consider investing in multiple separate systems.
This is the equivalent in many ways of the FS-220L, in that it provides filtration up to a 5 micron level. The cartridge is recommended for replacement every 6 months and while there is no mention of the precise gallons, it is safe to assume that this is a larger volume than you would get with the smaller, compact systems.
The housing is constructed of durable, heavy-wall, UV resistant plastic with brass inserts.
Pros
For industrial applications, the AQFS236 provides the necessary flow rate, durable housing and high degree of softening and filtration.
Like all of Aquios’ systems, the AQFS236 can soften and filter water simultaneously with no need for salt. This means appliances will last longer, looking after your organization’s bottom line. The infrequent replacement of filters is another big strength, as is the lack of salt which avoids added sodium in the diet and improves the taste of your water considerably.
Cons
This system only provides filtration up to 5 micron which is perfect adequate but not comparable with the top systems on the market or even the most comprehensive offerings from Aquios.
Cost is more as will be expected and as you should have understood by now, this solution is not recommended for those that want to completely remove minerals – this instead neutralizes them and prevents limescale and deposits from forming.
The only other downside for this product is that the AQFS236L is available for a comparable price and offers slightly superior features.
Verdict
This is a great, standard choice from Aquios for commercial application.
Aquios AQFS236L Jumbo Water Softener and Filter System With VOC Reduction
Overview
This is another filter and water softener aimed at commercial applications. This has a larger diameter housing for greater flow rates and reduces the need for multiple filter systems.
Better yet, the Aquios AQFS236 adds in VOC reduction – volatile organic compounds – in order to provide even better health benefits.
Key Features
There are two reasons that a customer might choose the AQFS236L over other models. One is the flow rate and commercial suitability. The other is the inclusion of VOC reduction, to remove such unwanted substances such as ozone. This is on top of the regular filtration for removing chlorine (98% of chlorine taste and smell) and salt-free water softening.
There is a contradiction on the website right now regarding the filtration. The product specifications say that the filtration is up to 5 micron, where as the details section describes it as 1 micron. You may wish to confirm this with a company representative before making a purchase.
Pros
This system offers all the usual, considerable advantages of salt-free softening and activated carbon filtration. However, it also provides VOC reduction and higher flow rates for commercial applications. It also has the same superior build quality that makes it suitable for large applications and 6 month cartridge life.
Cons
For those that do not need a system for commercial applications, the AQFS236L is not the most cost effective solution. It is also a shame that there is confusion regarding the level of filtration.
Verdict
Overall, this is one of the most comprehensive solutions currently available from Aquios and a great choice for commercial uses.
Aquios AQFS234 Jumbo Water Softener and Filter System
Overview
This is another jumbo solution intended for situations that demand greater water flow. The difference is that this is a slightly less jumbo jumbo offering; this time being best suited to larger homes, rather than commercial uses.
Key Features
This system is very similar to the Aquios AQFS236 in terms of features and specifications. The difference is the diameter of the housing which is best suited to large homes.
Otherwise, the AQFS234 features the same 5 micron filter rating, the same sturdy construction and the same 6 month cartridge exchange.
Pros
For those that live in a large home, the AQFS234 is the best choice of water softener and filter from Aquios. This will provide salt-free water softening in order to offer the usual softening benefits without corroding pipes or adding sodium to your diet.
Cons
The AQFS234 has all the same pros and cons as the comparable models. The only additional consideration is that this won’t be the most cost effective solution for smaller homes and the micron filtering is not as effective as the SF-220C or AQFS234L.
Verdict
Overall, this is another excellent product from Aquios and the preferred choice for larger homes.
Aquios AQFS234L Jumbo Water Softener and Filter System with VOC Reduction
Overview
Finally, the AQFS234L is the exact same product as the AQFS234 but with stronger water filtration. Specifically, this system is capable of reducing contaminants down to 1 micron, as compared with 5 microns. Otherwise, this is once again a jumbo fitting with larger housing aimed at bigger households (but not necessarily commercial settings).
Key Features
Like the Aquios AQFS234, the AQFS234L is designed for larger homes and will provide salt-free softening as well as filtration. It has a 6 month cartridge exchange and comes with all necessary components for self-installation. It has the heavy-wall, UV resistant plastic as well.
On top of this, filtration is offered up to 1 micron, along with VOC (volatile organic compound reduction), which makes it one of the most comprehensive options available from Aquios for improving health. This has no bearing on softening however.
Pros
The AQFS234L is the ideal choice for larger homes that want the best possible level of filtration. With improved filtration, your large family can enjoy better health while simultaneously benefiting from improved water feel and longer life for all appliances and bathroom fittings.
Cons
For those in smaller homes, this is not the most efficient water filter.
Verdict
Overall, this is the best offering from Aquios for anyone in a larger property thanks to its superior filtration and large diameter housing.
Conclusion
And there you have it! You now know everything there is to know about water softeners and filters, as well as where to get them from and which model is right for you. Good luck and here’s to softer, healthier water!