Water hardness is a frustrating issue that faces many people in the United States each year. This issue arises due to the presence of dissolved minerals in the water such as calcium and magnesium that are gathered as the water travels along its normal paths through the ground. States that have the highest levels of ions typically include those located in the Midwest with declining concentrations as one moves closer to the Coastal areas. When moderate to high levels of hard water are present in the home, they tend to decrease the effectiveness of soaps, damage appliances, and leave scale deposits on metallic surfaces such as bathroom fixtures and pans. In order to remove the harmful effects of water hardness, most homeowners must install a salt-based water softener. One of the most popular brands used in the US is known as Fleck and they have been in the industry for over fifty years. This company has a high degree of trust with professional installers because it has consistently provide reliable products and service. Once a system has been installed in the home, it will remove the problematic ions from the water and gradually reduce the signs of hardness.

1. Fleck Water Softeners
A Popular Option For Eliminating Hard Water

2. What is Hard Water?
 Formed from the presence of dissolved molecules such as
magnesium and calcium.
 Particles found naturally in the soil.
 Acquired as the water travels through the ground.
 Pumped to residential areas by water collection facilities.
 Not harmful to human health.
 Can be mild, moderate, or severe based on ion levels.
 Causes several problems in the home.

3. Common Issues
 Scale deposits on metallic surfaces.
 Decreased lather of soaps and detergents.
 Discolored and damaged clothing.
 Clogged plumbing.
 Soap residue on the skin that can be irritating.
 Bad smell.
 Staining of porcelain surfaces.
 Damaged appliances.

4. Eliminating Its Effects
 Salt-based softeners are the most popular.
 Salt-free alternatives are available.
 Systems using salt tend to be more effective.
 Alternative options may have less impact on the ecosystem.
 Salt-based products completely remove the ions.
 Salt-free alternatives claim to alter the structure of ions.
 It’s a good idea to consult with a local installation specialist.

5. Fleck Systems
 Widespread use in the United States.
 Have been in the industry for over 50 years.
 Solid track record of reliable and effective products.
 Sold through distributors.
 Use a two tank salt-based system to remove ions.
 Popular systems include basic 5600, 5600 SXT, and 7000.
 Very effective in cases of moderate to severe hardness.

6. Differences Between Models
 Come with a different control head.
 Basic models usually have a manual dial.
 Advanced models have a computerized head.
 Allows for initiation of regeneration based on water volume.
 More efficient than manual dial.
 More costly.
 Tends to pay for itself through reduced salt and energy use.
 Most popular among certified installers.
 The most likely choice for homeowners.

7. Installation and Maintenance
 Can be performed by the homeowner if they have plumbing
experience and are confident that they can do the job in a
way that will not void the manufacturer warranty.
 Usually best to hire a certified professional who has been
approved by the manufacturer and who has setup several
systems in the past.
 Local installers can also provide ongoing support down the
road if something were to happen with the softener.

8. References
 Fleck water softener
 www.homewatersoftenerreviews.com