The Ultimate Guide For Buying The Best Dual Tank Water Softener

Hard water is common enough to be of concern across various parts of the country. While medical professionals tell us that it is not harmful to health, the hard water still remains a nuisance in our homes. We know that minerals like calcium and magnesium are good for health, but do we need to have them in excess?

Whether it is water from the well or supplied by the city, they flow into our homes through pipes that may have pollutants or traces of iron. When you have hard water running through your pipes, that is what happens. There is a constant inflow of hard water, which may carry more than minerals. It may also carry other impurities as they enter our plumbing systems.

Over time, the minerals increase limescale buildup, and that also spills over to our household appliances. Washing machines, heaters, kettles, etc., which use water regularly show scaling and reduce their lifespan.

The other effects of hard water are that we use more soap and shampoo to get a lather, use more water to rinse, watch our hair go dry, and our skin turns itchy.

All these are the results of high hardness levels. Therefore, finding the number of people investing in water softeners increase is no surprise. The two types of water softeners are single-tank and dual tanks.

How does a twin-tank water softener work?

A twin-tank water softener helps reduce the number of minerals in hard water, such as magnesium and calcium, that can cause scale buildup, plumbing damage, and other problems. This type of softener is unique in that it uses two tanks instead of one, which allows for more efficient and reliable operation.

A twin-tank water softening system has two cylinders that work independently. When one tank is going through the water regeneration process, the 2nd tank takes over, ensuring that you never run out of softened water.

Typically, commercial spaces prefer twin tanks because their need for softened water is greater due to the number of people using water. But large households living in big homes also find twin tanks preferable because they use more water and may not want to be without soft water even for a short time when the unit is regenerating.

What size twin tank water softener do you need?

Water softeners are essential for anyone looking to reduce the number of hard minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, in their water. These minerals can cause mineral buildup in plumbing, appliances, and fixtures and create an unpleasant taste and texture in drinking water.

A twin-tank water softener is an excellent solution to this issue. But what size twin tank water softener do you need? When selecting a twin-tank water softener, you’ll need to consider the size of your home and the amount of water you use. The size of your water softener will depend on the following four factors.

Hardness level

Hardness levels vary from region to region, so you need to get your water tested. You can get a do-it-yourself water testing kit or call a professional. To be very sure, you may send the water to a lab for testing. But the level will tell you how much capacity you would need in your water softener.

Water usage

How much water gets consumed depends on the household. For instance, if there are more than four members, you may need a water softener that will ensure a continuous supply of softened water for that many people. The average person will need around 80 gallons of water per day.

Grain capacity

When you know the hardness levels of water, you will also learn how many grains will need to be removed when you multiply the hardness by the gallons of water you use per day. For example, if you use 300 gallons per day, and the hardness is measured at 6, the number of grains for removal is 1800 – 1800 GPG.

Cost of water softener

Water softeners come at different prices because of the various brands, sizes, and features. The price also depends on whether they are salt-based water softeners or salt-free conditioners with different features.

There are on-demand metered units and twin tanks. Comparing the various dual tank softeners in the market and their prices will help you find the one best suited to your budget, while also help you save money in the long term.

Comparing 5 Best Dual Tank Water Softener For Your Home

​Here are five of the top brands in the market that have dual tanks and will serve the purpose of softening water, in residential and commercial spaces.

1. Durawater Fleck 9100 SXT Twin Tank Metered On-Demand 48,000 Grains Per Tank Water Softener 24/7 Soft Water

Fleck 9100 SXT Twin Tank

The Fleck 9100 SXT is a twin-tank water softener and comes with a Turbine Meter with cable. It has a 9100 digital-control valve and a male-threaded yoke to make it easy to install.

It has a meter-on-demand system and a 1.5 cubic feet high capacity resin per tank. It also has a brine tank with float and touchpad controls and can soften up to 48,000 grains per tank.

The dual tanks come pre-loaded with resin, and the bypass valve comes with ¾ and 1 – inch threaded yoke. Additionally, it has touchpad controls, making it user-friendly and easy to use.

Pros

  • The Durawater Fleck 9100 SXT Twin Tank offers high capacity.
  • It has an upgraded paddle wheel meter
  • There are two adjustable regeneration options.
  • It uses minimum salt and water.
  • The water softener offers 27 years of daily usage.

Cons

  • The Durawater Fleck 9100 SXT Twin Tank is heavy.
  • This water softener occupies a lot of space.

2. Pentair Fleck Commercial Water Softener

Pentair Fleck Commercial

Pentair Fleck Commercial Water Softener – 24000 grain capacity with 9100 SXT Twin Tanks

This is a commercial heavy-duty water softener and has a 3″ brass control valve, which is lead-free, making it more durable. It enables continuous water flow at 250 GPM with a 100 GPM backwash.

The adjustable 3- or 5-cycle control makes it an efficient and reliable water treatment system. It has a backwash capability that accommodates softener tanks up to 63″ and a filter up to 42″ in diameter.

The commercial water softener comes with an environmental protective cover for water and corrosion resistance and UV stability. It also has a time-tested, hydraulically balanced piston for service and regeneration.

Pros

  • Pentair Fleck 9100 SXT Twin-Tanks has an easy-to-use digital control valve.
  • It regenerates with softened water, keeping the valve and resin injectors clean.
  • The unit saves salt and water usage.

Cons

  • No cons so far

3. EcoMax Duo Twin Tank Water Softener

EcoMax Duo Twin Tank Water Softener

The EcoMax Duo Twin Tank Water Softener uses 100% capacity, with the 2nd tank providing softened water when the first one has reached capacity. It offers high-efficiency regeneration with a special full-width distributor plate that pushes the water upwards into the resin bed.

It also has a superior flow technology for balanced loading and a better regeneration. The distributor plate enables circular water flow, and the aggressive flushing removes debris from the resin beads more thoroughly.

Additionally, the system has smart system controls with a user-friendly digital controller and nine optional cleaning cycles.

Pros

  • The EcoMax Duo Twin Tank Water Softener offers greater efficiency.
  • It saves up to 70% on soap and water usage
  • It extends the life of household appliances.
  • The water softener flushes the debris from the resin beads thoroughly.

Cons

  • May need professional assistance for installation.

4. Aquasential Smart High-Efficiency Twin Softener

Aquasential Smart High-Efficiency Softener

Aquasential Smart High-Efficiency Twin Softener is a smart HE dual tank that provides a never-ending supply of softened water. It adapts to changing water conditions and regenerates only when necessary.

The smart features come through a Culligan Connect app and can be controlled from anywhere with a remote display. The dual Quadra-Hull tanks can withstand UV rays and corrosion and provide cleaner water.

Pros

  • The Aquasential Smart High-Efficiency Twin Softener saves water and salt with on-demand regeneration.
  • It is affordable and durable.
  • The system is WQA certified for removing hard minerals

Cons

  • The Aquasential Smart High-Efficiency Twin Softener may have higher upfront costs.

5. USA Fleck 9100 SXT Twin Tank Softener

USA Fleck 9100 SXT Twin Tank Softener

USA Fleck 9100 SXT Twin Tank Metered On-Demand 64,000 Grains Per Tank Water Ships Pre Loaded With Resin

This system comes with a hardness testing kit that also tests your water for iron. It also has 4.0 cubic feet of resin, a Fleck 9100 SXT controller, two high-flow mineral tanks, a salt tank, and a brine tank with a float.

Additionally, it has a Paddlewheel Meter for better water metering. The Noryl plastic bypass valve with a 1-inch male thread makes it easy to install.

Pros

  • The system’s Fleck spare parts are easily available.
  • It offers lower operational costs, saving on utilities, salt, and water
  • It is affordable.

Cons

  • The water softener takes up a lot of space
  • The threaded yoke can be better
  • May need professional assistance to set it up.
  • It has a higher upfront cost.

The above five dual tank water softeners are a shortlist of the units available in the market today. The list, with its pros and cons, aims to help those in need of a twin-tank water softener for their homes or office spaces.

Single tank water softener vs. dual tank water softener?

When it comes to water softening systems, one of the most important considerations is whether to go with a single-tank or dual-tank water softener.

Both systems have their advantages and disadvantages, and the decision really comes down to how much water you need to soften, how much space you have available, and how often you plan to use the system.

Single-tank water softener

Single-tank water softeners are typically the most affordable option and are great for households that don’t require a lot of treated water. These systems use a single tank to filter out minerals and impurities from the water, making it softer and more pleasant to drink.

The main downside to single-tank systems is that they require more frequent regeneration cycles, as the single tank can quickly become overwhelmed when treating a larger amount of water.

Dual tank water softener

Dual tank water softeners are more expensive than single tank systems but offer several advantages. The two tanks allow for more efficient filtration, meaning you don’t have to regenerate the system as often.

Additionally, the two tanks can be set up with different regeneration cycles, allowing for more flexibility in how often the system needs to be regenerated.

The only downside to dual tank systems is that they require more space, as two tanks need to be installed instead of just one.

In conclusion, choosing between single-tank vs. dual-tank water softeners depends on your household’s needs. Single-tank systems are great for families that don’t require a lot of treated water, while dual-tank systems offer improved efficiency and flexibility for larger households.

Whichever type of water softener you decide on, you can rest assured that your home’s drinking water will be much improved.

Culligan twin tank water softener vs. Fleck twin tank water softener?

While both Culligan and Fleck twin tank water softeners are equally popular, it is helpful to know more about each. When shopping for a water softener, you may come across two well-known brands: Culligan and Fleck.

Both offer twin-tank water softeners, which are effective for households with large water demands. But how can you know which one is best for you? To help you decide, let’s compare the Culligan twin tank water softener and the Fleck twin tank water softener.

Culligan twin tank water softeners

First, let’s look at the Culligan twin tank water softener. This model uses the patented Aqua-Sensor technology to monitor your water usage and adjust the regeneration process accordingly. This helps reduce salt and water usage, making it an economical choice.

It also has a built-in bypass valve, making it easy to switch between softened and unsoftened water. The system is designed to be easy to install and requires minimal maintenance.

Fleck twin tank water softener with brine tank

Now, let’s look at the Fleck twin tank water softener. This model uses a two-tank system to provide a continuous supply of soft water. It has a built-in bypass valve, allowing you to switch between softened and unsoftened water easily.

The Fleck twin tank water softener also has an adjustable regeneration cycle, which helps reduce salt and water usage. Additionally, it is designed to be easy to install, and it requires minimal maintenance.

Both the Culligan twin tank water softener and the Fleck twin tank water softener are practical and economical options. However, the Fleck twin tank water softener may be the better choice for households with large water demands.

The adjustable regeneration cycle helps reduce salt and water usage, and the two-tank system provides an uninterrupted supply of soft water.

Additionally, it’s easy to install and requires minimal maintenance. So if you’re searching for an effective and economical twin-tank water softener, the Fleck twin-tank water softener may be the best choice for you.

How to install a twin tank water softener?

Buying a twin tank water softener

Installing a two-tank water softener is a great way to improve the quality of your home’s water. Water softeners remove hard minerals such as calcium and magnesium that can cause water hardness.

Installing a twin tank system helps to ensure that your water is always soft and free from hard minerals. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to install a twin-tank water softener.

Step 1:

Prepare the area. Before you begin the installation process, make sure the area around the water softener is clean and free from debris. Also, check to make sure that the drain pipe and electrical wiring are in a safe and secure location.

Step 2:

Mount the tanks. The first step in the installation process is to mount the two tanks on the wall. Make sure the tanks are level and secure them to the wall with screws or bolts.

Step 3:

Connect the tanks. Once the tanks are mounted, connect them with a flexible hose or pipe. Make sure the connection is secure, and there are no leaks.

Step 4:

Connect the brine tank. The brine tank is used to store the salt that the water softener uses to soften the water. Connect the brine tank to the main tank using a hose or pipe.

Step 5:

Connect the water supply. The 2nd step is to connect your water supply to the water softener. Make sure to read the instructions that come with the water softener and follow them carefully.

Step 6:

Install the bypass valve. The bypass valve is used to divert hard water away from the water softener system. Connect the bypass valve to the two tanks and make sure it is secure.

Step 7:

Install the control valve. The control valve is used to regulate the amount of salt and water that goes through the system. Connect the control valve to the two tanks and make sure it is secure.

Step 8:

Connect the drain line. The drain line is used to drain the brine tank after it has been used. Connect the drain line to the brine tank and make sure it is secure.

Step 9:

Program the water softener. Finally, program the water softener with the correct settings for your home. Make sure to read the instructions that come with the water softener and follow them carefully.

Installing a twin-tank water softener is not a difficult task, but it does require some knowledge and experience. If you are unsure how to proceed, it may be time to call a professional for help. With the right tools and expertise, installing a twin-tank water softener can provide you with clean, soft water for years to come.

The Verdict

We have compared various water softeners in the market and seen the difference between a single tank and a twin tank. If you have high hardness levels in the water, you may want an uninterrupted supply of softened water. It makes sense to go with the twin tank variation. And of all the twin tank units in the market, the best in the market is the one with the Fleck 9100 SXT valve.

Our top pick is the Durawater Fleck 9100 SXT Twin Tank Metered On-Demand 48,000 Grains Per Tank. The Fleck 9100 SXT valve comes with proven technology and has a corrosion-resistant body. It has an innovative 2nd tank connection and regenerates only when needed, saving salt and water usage.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How much does a dual-tank water softener cost?

You can use a water softener with an aerobic septic system without any negative impact on the bacteria in the tank. An aerobic septic system depends on the bacteria that use oxygen to dissolve the solids and nutrients in the wastewater. 

2. What is a dual tank whole house water softener?

A dual tank whole house water softener is a system designed to improve water quality throughout a home. It works by using two tanks to filter out hard minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, that can cause problems with plumbing fixtures, appliances, laundry, and dishwashers.

In a dual-tank system, one tank is used to filter water while the other is in standby mode. The filtering tank is filled with a resin bed that traps the hard minerals, while the standby tank is filled with brine (saltwater) and is ready to be used when the other tank needs to be regenerated.

The softening process begins when water enters the filter tank, and the hard minerals are trapped in the resin bed. The filtered water is then sent to the home’s plumbing fixtures and appliances.

The filter tank needs to be regenerated when it is full of minerals. In this process, the standby tank is used for flushing out the minerals and refilling the filter tank with fresh resin.

The regeneration process is triggered when a computerized control valve determines when the filter tank needs to be replenished. This process is typically done at night so that the water supply is not interrupted during the day.

A dual-tank water softener is an effective and efficient way to improve the quality of water throughout a home. It uses two tanks to filter out hard minerals, ensuring the water supply is not interrupted during the regeneration process.

Installing a dual-tank water softener can help prevent plumbing problems, reduce the buildup of scale in appliances, and improve water quality for drinking, bathing, and cleaning.

3. Can you run 2 water softeners together?

Running two water softeners together is different from a dual water softener. But according to some plumbers, two of them can be integrated into a twin tank system.

Ideally, a dual tank water softener is better as it ensures that there is no interruption of soft water supply during regeneration.

4. Where to find a dual water softener valve?

Dual water softener valves can be found in any appliance store online. When it comes to replacing a valve, it is best to go with the manufacturer’s manual to find the one that will suit the water softener. 

Conclusion

If you are in need of a water softener, you are probably looking at the various brands and models in the market. And if you have a large house with more than four family members, you are better off looking at a dual-tank water softener.

This article offers information on the main properties of a twin tank water softener unit, the difference between a single tank and dual tank device, along with the pros and cons of various models. It should help you choose a system that is right for your needs and will give you an uninterrupted supply of softened water.

About The Author

Our Web Producer

Judith— a passionate water treatment specialist — is a waste water management enthusiast, clean drinking water advocate, and someone with deep personal experience and knowledge about various water equipments. Her work was mentioned in countless notable water associations. Previously she was an editor at Water Alliance.