On Feb 26, 3:46 pm, cj wrote:
i would like to purchase a water softener and after a bit of research i
see that there are lots of choices. should i have my water tested and
then use that info to make a choice? we do not use a ton of water ( just
two of us) so i should probably make my choice based on that also..right?
thanks, cj

First, a water test. Then, there are other factors that determine what
you should be shopping for. Number of people in the house, number of
bathrooms, and appliances that are huge water users (hot tub,
jacuzzi).

As Edwin pointed out, you can and should call at least two local water
treatment pros. They'll come out and test the water, inspect the
installation possibilities along with your plumbing, and make
recommendations. You are not obligated to buy but can accumulate data,
info, and options with your only expense being some of your time.

You can shop locally or buy online if you are a DIYer but buying long
distance means no service unless "move it closer to the phone so I can
see it suits you". Local will cost more but you get more.

Regardless, the best choices are industry standard softeners and not
pre-built box store brands like GE, Sears, Morton, and such. Industry
standard softeners are built with higher quality components and last a
lot longer than the not always less expensive box store models.

The heart and brain of a softener is the control valve. Fleck is the
largest manufacturer of softener control valves and sells more than
all the other control valve companies combined worldwide. There is
always someone everywhere that services Fleck based water softeners.

I'm not in the water treatment business but have been royally screwed
by self-proclaimed water treatment professionals so take care that the
person giving you advice doesn't have an ulterior motive and their
hand in your pocket.

In real estate it's location, location, location and with water
treatment it's DEALER, DEALER, DEALER.