The Best Water Conditioners to Ensure Fresh & Clean Water

Unlike a salt-based water softener, the best water conditioner uses no chemicals and salts that will alter the chemical composition of the water. It also doesn’t release chlorine and other chemicals into communal water, so it is more eco-friendly than traditional salt-based systems.

This water conditioner is also highly effective in reducing scale buildup around the inside of pipes and plumbing fixtures. It is also preferred by people not looking to add salt to their water. There are more benefits I will share as we go on.

Choosing a water conditioner is easy if you know the important factors to consider. Check out the following criteria:

• Water Conditioning Technology: Water conditioners feature different technologies. Most use template-assisted or nucleation-assisted crystallization, while others employ electromagnetism. Still, some brands use citric acid cartridges to neutralize hard water minerals. TAC or NAC systems are the most efficient among water conditioner types.

• Capacity: Although a water conditioner does not remove hard water minerals, its performance still hinges on how many hard minerals are in the water. Most conditioners have a 25-GPG limit. However, some brands can manage up to 81 GPG. You might want to pick the latter if you live in an area with very hard water.

• Installation: Some water conditioners are more straightforward to set up than others. For instance, magnetic water descalers only require winding two cables around the water pipe. Meanwhile, a template-assisted crystallization water conditioner might need a few hours of installation. Pick a system you are ready to set up yourself.

For now, I would like to highlight the top picks, each having advantages and disadvantages, to help you with your selection. If you’re ready, let’s start.

Top-Rated Water Conditioner Reviews

1. iSpring ED2000 Water Conditioner

In whole house water conditioner reviews, you might have bumped into this product. Sometimes, people refer to it as an alternative water softener that works to reduce the hardness of water and prevent the problems coming with it. This water treatment system is not just a softener, though, because it is also a descaler and a conditioner.

Multiple functions are what make this product one of the most sought-after water treatment systems right now. You can just imagine the savings you’d get for buying just one instead of three. But it’s not only the savings. Upgrading to a functional system like the iSpring ED2000 also saves a lot of space vs three different systems that require more.

It can eliminate hard water problems without the use of salt or chemicals. Using no salt also means no added salt into your diet. It only translates to healthier drinking water.

It can also condition the water without removing healthy minerals, including calcium, from it. I also love that it can prevent scale deposits, which would otherwise form and damage the plumbing system, and that is thanks to the descaling function of this unit.

This model also saves you money in terms of reducing energy, which is also helpful for the environment. You can also consider it if you want healthier skin and hair or if you’re on a salt-restricted diet.

Powerful but compact, this unit is designed for hard water with up to 19 grains. You also don’t need to modify your plumbing system because it can be installed with any pipes, including PVC and PEX.

2. Aquasana Salt-Free Conditioner

Aquasana’s water softener system is another top consideration when comparing your options for a salt-free conditioner. This system can filter sediment and remove up to 97% of chlorine in the water. You can improve the quality of water while also ensuring the health of your loved ones.

This unit can also filter the sediment in the water, making it cleaner for a healthier drink. Also, it can reduce harmful contaminants, including herbicides, pesticides, mercury, and lead. I also liked it is a salt-free water conditioner designed with carbon and KDF filtration. It works for maximum filtering while reducing the scale of the water supply.

I’d also recommend this system if you’re trying to improve water quality. Plus, you won’t have to worry about back flushing or draining because this model requires little maintenance. You just must replace the pre- and post-filters every three months to improve flow rate and filtration.

Your body will also thank you for this treatment system because it can limit your skin and hair’s exposure to synthetic chemicals and chlorine that could otherwise dry your skin and make your hair brittle.

This model uses an innovative technology called Scale Control Media to condition water without adding sodium. It can prevent the minerals from binding and forming scale. Unlike salt-based descalers, it will condition without demineralizing water. It will also not add salt, which will otherwise affect communal water.

3. P3 P7920 Water Conditioner

A top recommendation we’ve found for water conditioning systems is this P3 chemical-free conditioner. It works efficiently in treating and conditioning the water, improving its overall quality for the health of our loved ones. This model is ideal for homes with ¾-inch pipes, so it is not hard to install at all.

For its size, it is compact and lightweight, weighing only 0.75 lbs and with total dimensions of 14.5 x 10.25 x 19 inches. In this case, it suits even small spaces. That is why it is chosen by those that do not want a bulky water conditioner.

This model does not require any chemicals to prevent limescale buildup, which if left unattended, would cause different problems. One of which is damage to your plumbing system and pipes. It can also harm your water-utilizing appliances, including coffee makers, heaters and filtration systems.

As it doesn’t use chemicals, you can also save money in the end. If you would do the math, it might be the better option for you than a salt-based water softener that requires more maintenance and the use of salt. This model has PVC and ceramic ferrite magnets that can polarize salt in hard water.

Besides, I love that it conditions the water without adding salt or changing its taste. It will retain the refreshing taste of water without affecting its quality. It is easy to maintain, as it requires no batteries, and it is without any moving parts. It also does not require much plumbing knowledge so you can install it yourself.

4. H2OEliteLabs 0-35GPG Water Conditioner

This water conditioner is the top-tier water conditioning system on the market for many consumers. There is no doubt why because it works efficiently and effectively with its unique features. The H2OEliteLabs conditioner is one of the most suitable solutions to protect your plumbing system and appliances from limescale buildup and reduce the adverse effects of hard water.

Using it, you can also prevent the buildup of unwanted minerals in your faucets, sinks, pipes, and heaters. You can imagine the savings in your pocket because you don’t have to spend money on expensive repairs or appliance replacements. This unit can extend the life of your appliances and maintain their peak performance.

I also liked that it can condition water without adding salt to it and ultimately into our diet. So, while it protects our homes from limescale buildup and water hardness, it will not alter the taste of water. And as it is chemical- and salt-free, it is also maintenance-free, unlike salt-based systems. Thus, this unit is also eco-friendly, helping to conserve nature while conditioning water.

I’d also like to recommend this water conditioner because it can save you money, effort, and time. With it, you don’t need to clean your toilets, sinks, showerheads, and faucets often. You can also eliminate the need to buy chemical cleaners.

And even if you don’t have plumbing knowledge, you can choose this unit because it is a DIY water conditioner that you can install on most pipes, including PEX, CPVC, PVC, and copper.

5. Clearwave 46100000 Field CW-125

Clearwave is another trusted brand among water softener brands because it delivers quality and high-performance products that consumers can rely on for a long time. One of their top offerings is the Clearwave 46100000.

I recommend the Clearwave water conditioner because it can remove limescale buildup that would otherwise lead to plumbing damage. As you may already know, damage to fixtures, faucets, pipes, and plumbing can cost money. You can prevent it if you use a water softener like this Clearwave CW-125.

Also, this water conditioner can make it easy to clean and maintain plastic, ceramic, metal, and glass surfaces. Thus, you can save much effort and time. You can also prevent the accumulation and formation of stains and crust under the faucets, toilets, and showerheads using this water conditioner.

More so, I love that it doesn’t require any salt or chemicals to treat the water. It works much better than a traditional water treatment system that uses a lot of water. This one can save water because of its efficient technology, making it also eco-friendly.

It is also perfect for preventing new scale formation besides breaking down the existing limescale. So, if you’re living in an area where there is hard water and want to prevent issues associated with it, you should check out this water conditioner. It is not very expensive yet effective in conditioning and improving water quality.

6. Scale Blaster SB-75

SCALE BLASTER is a trusted name in water conditioning systems because of its products’ performance and integrity. The SB-75 is one of their top offerings to consumers, particularly those looking for a compact and sleek water treatment system that fits even small spaces. Among electric water conditioners, this one is also stylish and can complement any decoration or design.

I also like the SB-75 because it offers a lower water conditioning cost, unlike salt-based systems. Using this, you don’t have to worry about costly maintenance because it requires no salt or chemicals. It also means not adding salt to your diet or communal water. You will love how it can condition water without altering its taste.

I also recommend this unit for those looking for an eco-friendly solution. This unit will not discharge chlorides into the environment. Also, it can improve the lathering of soaps, reducing laundry and shower time.

Your scalp and skin will also thank you for using it because it can improve the quality of water to prevent issues such as dry skin and itchy scalp. This computerized water conditioner also saves you money because it can let you enjoy longer-lasting sheets, towels, and clothes.

7. Magnetic Water Technology Conditioner

Are you looking for a small and compact water conditioner that you can take wherever you go? You might want to check out this magnetic water conditioner, especially designed and made for small spaces, such as condos, apartments and recreational vehicles. It is completely portable and lightweight, making it one of the top options among those looking for such benefits from their water conditioning systems.

This unit is one of the best-selling magnetic water conditioners recommended by handymen and plumbers all over the world. This mobile home water conditioner makes use of a 360-degree magnetic field along with two pieces of neodymium magnets for the top-rated results. You can also install it within minutes without special tools. Thus, even beginners can set this up without any hassle.

I also like that it is an eco-friendly solution that doesn’t require any salt or nasty chemicals, which would alter the water component and taste. In this case, you also don’t need to be concerned about excessive salt in your diet, especially if you’re eating healthily. You can also save a lot of money because it’s affordable and requires no maintenance.

Magnetic technology also changes the particle’s molecular structure. It can solve hard water problems without changing its taste, too. Plus, this alteration to the structure of the water particles can prevent the adhering of scale in the heaters and pipes. You can also extend their lifespan and save money on repairs and maintenance of your appliances.

Another unique aspect of this system is that it is nature-powered. So, aside from not using chemicals and salt, it also doesn’t add to your monthly bills.

8. Trillium Worldwide TWI-5001

Trillium Worldwide is another famous brand if you read water conditioner reviews. It is a consistent top rater in magnetic water softener and descaler systems for its quick installation and easy operation.

You can quickly install this unit in your incoming freshwater pipe and use it immediately to condition water even if you don’t have special tools or vast plumbing knowledge. It also uses a highly innovative magnetic field. It can reduce calcium deposits while also preventing and removing scale buildup in your pipes.

If hard water is causing you problems you can rely on this treatment system that can prevent its effects on plumbing and pipes. You and your loved ones can enjoy a higher quality of water that will not lead to the scaling of your faucets and showerheads.

Conditioned water can also keep your hair, scalp, and skin healthy. If you have family members with sensitive skin, you might want to check out this Trillium magnet, which can effectively condition the water and prevent such issues.

As it can prevent and treat scale buildup, it can also improve the water flow in your home; thus, it can reduce your utility bills, too. This model is also unlike traditional salt-based systems that add salt to the unit to work. Hence, this water conditioner is also eco-friendly because it descales water without adding sodium into communal water.

It can also extend the lifespan of your appliances, including heaters and washing machines, saving you money from expensive repairs and replacements. Plus, this water conditioner can help improve water taste and feel.

HydroFLOW S38 (Outdated)

In these water conditioning system reviews, we cannot leave out the HydroFLOW S38, which is designed to serve you for years to come. This model is powered by Hydropath Technology. It was designed to reduce and treat hard water and scale issues in appliances and plumbing systems. As time went by, this technology also became a leader in chemical-free water treatments.

This unit can wipe away scale quickly to prevent minerals from accumulating and building up inside heaters, pipes, and faucets. This will not only soften the water, but it will also prevent hard water issues, including mineral scaling and clogged pipes. Thus, you can also save time and effort in cleaning sinks, faucets, and showerheads.

I also like that it comes with easy installation and requires no modification in your plumbing. You can install it easily without using any special tools, too. Instead, you can quickly attach this to your incoming water line pipe.

I recommend this unit if you want to save money and use an eco-friendly solution for water conditioning. It doesn’t use chemicals and salt; thus, it is also the perfect alternative to a water softener. Finally, the HydroFLOW S38 can work with different types of pipes, including copper, PVC, PEX, and galvanized.

Hardless NG3 Water Conditioner (Outdated)

This Hardless NG water conditioner is also a whole house filter, as its name suggests, and that’s a great thing because it can work in two ways. In this case, you don’t have to buy two different systems to treat and condition your water.

The Hardless NG3 can also ensure fresh and clean water in your household daily. It can work effectively with a 5-stage system to reduce sediment levels, arsenic, and odor. I also like that it works like a water filter system that frees us from buying individual filters for every tap and pipe.

You also don’t need to worry about the installation process because it can quickly be connected to the main water supply in your home. Moreover, you will love that it can cut the cleaning time because this compact unit can prevent hard water issues, including the buildup of scale that will also lead to spots.

Even if you have a small space, you don’t need to worry because the system is compact, and ideal for apartments and tiny homes. Using it, you can also improve the health of your hair and skin.

As you may already know, hard water can cause dry skin, an itchy scalp, and brittle hair. These won’t become a problem using this treatment unit that can also improve the lathering of soaps. Thus, you can expect to have smoother, softer skin and healthier hair.

What Is A Water Conditioner/ Who Is This For

A water conditioner is an essential household water treatment system that addresses issues such as algae, limescale, mineral buildup, sediment, chlorine, and bacteria — depending on the product you have chosen. It works to prevent many kinds of issues usually associated with hard water and tap water. Without it, scale buildup on heat exchangers, pipes, and fixtures can become a problem.

This water conditioner is for households looking to improve water quality, taste, and feel. It is also for those that want to prevent hefty spending on repairs and parts replacements of plumbing fixtures, faucets, sinks, showerheads, and others. It is also for individuals that want to improve the lathering of soaps to cut down time in doing laundry or taking a shower.

This water treatment system is also for individuals having trouble with dry, itchy scalp and brittle hair because it can condition water effectively and promote the health of skin, hair, and scalp. In addition, this conditioning system is for people that want to prevent spots on dishes and sinks and want brighter and longer-lasting sheets, clothes, and towels.

How Do Water Conditioners Work

A water conditioner works depending on what it can do and its technology. It goes without saying that no two water conditioners may be alike. Generally, water conditioners use different methods in terms of creating a catalytic reaction to change how biological and mineral contaminants behave.

The central concept is that the water conditioner keeps them from building up on pipes, faucets, and showerheads. In this manner, consumers don’t need to worry about scale and mineral buildup and odor. It can slow down the scaling and change the scale makeup so that it won’t be attached to the surface of pipes.

One thing is common. Water conditioners do not remove mineral ions. Instead, they prevent the ions from collecting and forming around the insides of plumbing systems, nozzles and heating elements like iron or copper.

Doing all these things, the water conditioner doesn’t require salt or chemicals. It is why it is called a saltless water softener. This also means that it is less costly than maintaining a water softener.

What Are The Different Types Of Water Conditioners

If you’re looking for a salt-free water softener, you must understand the types of water conditioners to help you with the selection process.

Magnetic water conditioners

They work by creating a magnetic field in the water. It can affect how the ions behave, so they will not form clusters that will stick to the surface of pipes and fixtures.

Electrolysis water conditioners

They use a battery and have metal electrodes, which are immersed in the water. These electrodes release the positive zinc ions that also release the electrons moving through the wire and then going to the cathode.

However, this process will eventually stop when the zinc anode dissolves. Thus, it will no longer work when the conditioner is exhausted. It might be hard to detect this issue until your plumbing system is damaged.

Electromagnetic water conditioners

Almost like the magnetic type, this type uses electricity to work. If you want to turn the magnetic signal off, you just need to switch off the power source.

Template-Assisted Crystallization water conditioners

This water conditioner uses resin beads to change ions into a stable form so that they will not cling to the surface and form scales. It doesn’t require regeneration.

Electrical Induction conditioner

What’s used to precipitate water hardness is an electrical current. The precipitate forms sludge on electrodes that require cleaning. This sludge is then removed by water. Advanced water conditioners use the electrical induction method to condition the water.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Using A Water Conditioner

The followings are the advantages and disadvantages of using a water conditioner.

Little to no maintenance

Unlike salt-based water treatment systems, a water conditioner does not require chemicals or salt to operate. It is high in performance, yet it does not require salt bags and other spending on your end.

In some models, you only need to unscrew the valve and flush out the dirt that might have collected in the filtering system from time to time. Then, every six months, you just need to replace the post filter and cartridge.

Health and Safety

Water conditioners do not add salt into your diet or release chloride into the communal water. They are also safe for the environment and not harmful to your health. Most of them also retain beneficial minerals, such as calcium, in your water while preventing limescale buildup.

Prevention of repairs and maintenance of plumbing systems

With a water conditioner, you can have peace of mind that your faucets, sinks, fixtures, and pipes will not be damaged by scale and mineral buildup.

Improved soap lathering and laundry results

Hard water can make stained and stiff clothes, but water conditioners can help you prevent it. With them, you can also cut the time in washing the dishes and the laundry. It goes without saying that it can also maximize the efficiency of your detergent for a softer fabric.

The longevity of your appliances

You don’t have to worry about your appliances, including dishwashers, coffee makers, and washing machines breaking down or needing parts replacements. This is because a water conditioner can prevent scale buildup that can ruin their efficiency and later cause damage to them.

Disadvantage

Water conditioners may also have their downsides, including a higher price, especially for multifunctional ones that can also work as a descaler and a filtration system.

Nevertheless, the advantages outweigh any disadvantages of a water conditioner. So, if you’re ready to choose yours, here is a buying guide.

Buying Guide

Before adding a water conditioner to your cart, you must remember certain things to ensure that you will be getting the most out of your spending. The following are factors to check when identifying the unit that suits your needs.

Ease of installation

Quality ones are DIY and do not require a plumber to do the job. They are easy to fit into PVC, PEX or galvanized pipes. You also do not need to modify existing plumbing or acquire any special tools because they come in a complete package.

Price

Some are affordable, and others are not. Narrow down your options by first determining the budget you want to spend on a water conditioner. Worry not, though, because many manufacturers are offering quality conditioners at affordable prices.

Size and capacity

There are compact-sized water conditioners that suit apartments, condos, and RVs. They are portable and lightweight, too. However, they might not be large-capacity ones like others are. So, depending on your water usage and the space available, you should check the capacity and size of the water conditioner which you are eyeing.

Quality and durability

When choosing a water conditioner, you should not just base your decision on the price but also on the quality. You might want to read reviews to determine quality and durability to ensure you are getting the most out of your spending.

Technology and type

Another important consideration when comparing your options is the type and technology used in the conditioning method. Refer to the types mentioned earlier to find out how each one works.

Multiple functions

Some models also work as a descaler and a water filter. With them, you don’t need different filters for every tap in your home. They can also work as a descaler that can prevent the buildup of unnecessary minerals and scale inside the pipes and plumbing fixtures without removing essential minerals from water.

Brand

Reputable brands manufacture quality and durable water conditioners. The following are some of the most trusted names in this category.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you use too much water conditioner?

There is no such thing as too much water conditioner. After all, water treatment technologies prevent magnesium, iron, calcium, and other hard minerals from sticking to pipes and coming out of your faucets. These chemicals, whether from city or well water, can interfere with shampoo surfactants, making it challenging to form a lather.

Like a water softener for hair or skin, an NAC or TAC water conditioner for septic systems and household plumbing can minimize limescale buildup.

As for water conditioner’s effects on the hair, science says you should not worry. However, users say the conditioned water leaves a silkier feel because fewer hard minerals are present that can stick to the hair and scalp. You will never worry about expensive shampoos for soft water again.

It is a different story when putting too much water conditioner in your fish tank. Water conditioners remove chlorine and chloramine to make the water right for fish species. Too much water conditioner binds with oxygen, preventing fish from “inhaling” the dissolved gas and leading to their demise.

How long does a water conditioner last?

The longevity of water conditioners varies across types. For example, GreenWave water conditioners with nucleation-assisted crystallization and similar products can last four to six years.

This water conditioner guarantees 97% effectiveness, handling 81 GPG hard water with pre-treatment. It is one of the best water conditioners for the money. It also answers the question, is crystalline media legit?

Meanwhile, NuvoH2O citric acid water conditioners require cartridge replacement every six months or 20,000 gallons. Magnetic water conditioners are the longest-lasting, with high-end units reaching four decades.

You can also compare different brands of the same water conditioner type. For example, you can research FilterSmart vs. Aquasana and analyze Aquasana and FilterSmart reviews. Pay attention to how long these products last in real life.

How long does water conditioner take to work?

If we are talking about water conditioners for fish tanks, most products start working within the first 15 minutes. Everything depends on how much water conditioner per gallon you add to the fish tank.

As for salt-free water conditioners for household applications, their “water-conditioning” performance should commence immediately. However, you might not notice the effects (i.e., less limescale production, better shampoo lather production) until after several hours to a few days.

You might also want to ask a water conditioner expert in your area about their experiences. Try typing “water conditioner experts near me” on your browser’s search bar. You will have a more realistic answer and explanation of what you seek.

What are the most trusted water conditioner brands?

Check out the following for the most trusted brands of water conditioners that you might want to consider when comparing your options.

• P3
• iSpring
• H2oEliteLabs
• Clearwave
• Aquasana
• Trillium Worldwide
• SCALE BLASTER
• HydroFLOW
• Hardless NG
• Magnetic Water Technology

Which is better — water softener or water conditioner?

The answer to this question can be subjective because people have their preferences. But if you would look at the advantages, a water conditioner might be better. Primarily, it doesn’t require chemicals or salt to operate, unlike a traditional water softener. A water conditioner is also an eco-friendlier and healthier alternative to a water softener because it does not release chloride and add salt into your water.

How to install and use?

Most models are DIY, so installation is not a hassle. There is no alteration in the plumbing system required. However, check the specifications of the water conditioner you bought because some of them only fit pipe diameters up to a particular measurement like 1.5 inches.

How to care & clean?

Some models might require period cleaning, whose instructions you can find in the user manual of the water conditioner you bought. Check it out and follow the instructions closely to prevent damage.

Where to buy?

You can buy a water conditioner in appliance stores, home depot, Lowes, and Walmart. They’re also widely available online in marketplaces, like eBay and Amazon. You can also check them out on manufacturer websites and other online stores, such as Costco.

Conclusion

By now, you probably know what the best water conditioner is. However, make sure to compare and study your options well to ensure that what you’ll pick suits your needs. Also, refer to the buying guide outlining the features to consider. Buy the right water conditioner and reap its rewards today!

Ronald Brown

Hi, I am Ronald, founder of Saveourh2o. With this website, we aim to solve all the problems related to your water filters, softeners, and heaters. I have five years working in water equipment sales & service. I hope to bring the knowledge gathered from my daily work to help you to achieve comfort and safety in your home!