DuraWater AFWFilters 5600sxt Metered On-demand vs DuraWater Fleck 5600 SXT Iron: Spec Comparison
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You are comparing the durawater afwfilters 5600sxt metered on demand vs fleck 5600 sxt iron. Both units offer 48,000-grain capacity and use the Fleck 5600 SXT control valve. They share a black finish and digital metered operation. The main difference lies in their resin and tank design. One uses standard resin with a double backwash feature. The other uses upgraded fine mesh resin for iron removal. This affects how each handles specific water conditions.
Key differences
| Aspect | DuraWater 48k Grain Black Softener | DuraWater 48k Grain Water Softener |
|---|---|---|
| Grain Capacity | 48,000 Grains | 48,000 grain |
| Control Valve | Metered On-demand | Fleck 5600 SXT digital metered |
| Resin Type | not listed | Upgraded fine mesh resin |
| Tank Dimensions | 14 in x 62 in | 10 inches x 54 inches |
| Key Features | Double backwash | Paddle wheel meter, safety float |
Which one should you choose?
Choose DuraWater 48k Grain Black Softener if
- You need a taller tank for vertical storage constraints.
- You want a system engineered with double backwash.
- You prefer the specific AFWFilters model configuration.
Choose DuraWater 48k Grain Water Softener if
- You have well water with higher iron levels.
- You want upgraded fine mesh resin for better performance.
- You value the included safety float and overflow protection.
Verdict: Choose Product A if your space requires a taller, narrower tank and you do not have significant iron issues. Select Product B if you are treating well water with iron, as the fine mesh resin and paddle wheel meter are designed for that challenge. Both provide reliable 48,000-grain softening capacity.
Side by Side Spec Breakdown
Resin Type
Product B, the DuraWater 48k Grain Water Softener, features upgraded fine mesh resin. This specific resin type is engineered for well water applications where higher iron levels are present. It helps remove hardness more effectively in those conditions. Product A, the DuraWater 48k Grain Black Softener, does not specify its resin type in the provided data. If you have well water with iron, the upgraded resin in Product B offers a clear advantage. For standard city water, the resin difference may be less critical, but the specification in Product B provides more assurance for tough water conditions.
Valve Operation
Both units use the Fleck 5600 SXT digital metered control valve, which is a reliable industry standard. However, Product A is explicitly labeled as having a Metered On-demand feature. This means it regenerates only when needed, saving salt and water. Product B also describes an efficient metered regeneration system that backwashes as needed. Since both rely on the same digital metered technology, they likely operate similarly. The data confirms both are metered. Product A highlights the on-demand aspect in its title, while Product B details the efficiency in its features. This is a tie in core technology, though Product A emphasizes the demand-based nature more directly.
Tank Dimensions
Product A has a resin tank measuring 14 inches in width and 62 inches in height. This taller, narrower profile fits in spaces with height restrictions but requires less floor width. Product B lists a resin tank width of 10 inches and a length (height) of 54 inches. This unit is shorter and slightly narrower, which might be easier to fit in tighter corners or under lower cabinets. The brine tank for Product B is also specified as 14 inches square. If you have limited vertical space, Product B is the better choice. If you have limited floor space, Product A's 14-inch width might be acceptable if height is available.
Brine Tank Capacity
Product B includes a standard square brine tank measuring 14 inches by 36 inches. It can hold approximately 250 pounds of salt and includes a safety float and overflow drain protection. This large capacity means you refill salt less frequently. Product A comes with a brine tank but does not specify its dimensions or salt capacity in the provided data. Without those numbers, you cannot compare the refill frequency. The explicit 250-pound capacity of Product B is a significant practical advantage for maintenance intervals. If salt handling frequency matters to you, Product B provides the necessary data to confirm its efficiency.
Backwash Features
Product A is engineered with a double backwash feature. This process helps flush out more sediment and iron from the resin bed before regeneration, which can extend resin life in dirty water. Product B does not mention double backwash in its features. Instead, it highlights the upgraded fine mesh resin and the paddle wheel meter. The double backwash is a specific mechanical advantage for handling heavy contamination. If your water source has high sediment or iron, this feature in Product A provides an extra cleaning step. For cleaner water sources, this feature may be unnecessary. The data gives Product A a clear edge in this specific mechanical capability.
Choose Your Best Softener
You have iron-heavy well water
Product B uses upgraded fine mesh resin. This resin is specifically engineered for well water applications with higher iron levels. It removes hardness more effectively in those conditions. If your water source has significant iron content, this resin type offers better performance than standard options. It is designed to handle the specific challenges of iron removal alongside softening.
You want double backwash cleaning
Product A is engineered with double backwash. This feature provides an extra cleaning cycle for the resin bed. It helps maintain resin efficiency and longevity. If you prioritize thorough cleaning cycles to keep the system running smoothly, this double backwash capability is a distinct advantage. It ensures the resin stays clean between regeneration cycles.
You need a compact resin tank
Product B has a 10 inch by 54 inch resin tank. This is a narrower profile compared to other options. If you have limited space for the softener unit, this compact resin tank dimensions may fit your installation better. It allows for a smaller footprint while still delivering the full 48,000 grain capacity you need.
The products compared
DuraWater 48k Grain Black Softener
Best for: homes needing 48,000 grain capacity
- Grain Capacity
- 48,000 grains
- Control Valve Type
- 5600sxt metered on-demand
- Color
- Black
- Control Type
- Digital Metered
- Dimensions
- 14 × 14 × 62 inches
View on Amazon: DuraWater 48k Grain Black Softener Affiliate link
This DuraWater unit uses a Fleck 5600 SXT valve with digital metered control. It offers 48,000 grains of capacity and measures 14 by 62 inches. The system features double backwash engineering. You get a complete setup with a brine tank, bypass valve, and 1-inch adapters. It suits homes needing reliable softening with automated regeneration cycles.
Pros
- 48,000 grain capacity
- Fleck 5600 SXT valve
- Digital metered control
- Double backwash engineering
Cons
- 14 by 62 inch tank size
- Black color finish
- No remote control included
Good fit if
- You need 48,000 grains of capacity
- You want a Fleck 5600 SXT valve
- You prefer digital metered control
Skip if
- You require a smaller tank
- You need a different valve type
- You want a remote control
Verdict: DuraWater 48,000 Grain Softener fits households needing a robust 48,000 grain system with a trusted Fleck 5600 SXT valve.
DuraWater 48k Grain Water Softener
Best for: well water with iron
- Grain Capacity
- 48,000 grains
- Control Valve Type
- Fleck 5600 SXT digital metered
- Resin Type
- Fine mesh
- Tank Dimensions
- 10" x 54" resin, 14" x 36" brine
- Dimensions
- 54 × 10 × 10 inches
- Weight
- 99 pounds
View on Amazon: DuraWater 48k Grain Water Softener Affiliate link
This system uses a Fleck 5600 SXT digital metered valve and 48,000-grain capacity. It includes upgraded fine mesh resin designed for well water with higher iron levels. The large 14-inch square brine tank holds about 250 pounds of salt. You get efficient metered regeneration that saves salt. This setup suits homes needing reliable iron removal and durable components.
Pros
- Fleck 5600 SXT digital metered control valve for reliable operation
- Upgraded fine mesh resin optimized for well water and iron removal
- Large 14x36 inch brine tank holds approximately 250 pounds of salt
- Metered regeneration system saves salt by washing only as needed
Cons
- 99-pound weight requires sturdy floor support
- No smart connectivity or app control mentioned in specifications
- Standard 10x54 inch resin tank may limit flow rate for large households
Good fit if
- You have well water with significant iron content
- You need a high-capacity system for medium to large homes
- You prefer durable, industry-trusted digital metered valves
Skip if
- You require smart home integration or remote monitoring
- You have limited floor space for a bulky brine tank
- You are on city water with low iron levels
Verdict: DuraWater Fleck 5600 SXT Iron is a robust choice for well owners tackling iron. Its fine mesh resin and metered valve handle hardness effectively. It fits households prioritizing durability over smart features.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | DuraWater 48k Grain Black Softener | DuraWater 48k Grain Water Softener |
|---|---|---|
| Grain Capacity | 48,000 grains | 48,000 grains |
| Control Valve Type | 5600sxt metered on-demand | Fleck 5600 SXT digital metered |
| Resin Type | not stated | Fine mesh |
| Tank Dimensions | not stated | 10" x 54" resin, 14" x 36" brine |
| Color | Black | black or almond |
| Control Type | Digital Metered | not stated |
| Valve Type | Fleck 5600 SXT | Fleck 5600 SXT |
| Dimensions | 14 × 14 × 62 inches | 54 × 10 × 10 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 99 pounds |
| Size | 48,000 Grains | 48k |
| Model | 5600Sxt | 5600-sxt-48kFM |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference in resin between the two DuraWater softeners?
The DuraWater 48k Grain Water Softener uses upgraded fine mesh resin. This type is designed for well water with higher iron levels. The other unit, the DuraWater 48k Grain Black Softener, does not specify this upgraded resin in its published data. You should choose the fine mesh version if your well water contains significant iron.
Do both units use the same control valve?
Yes, both systems utilize the Fleck 5600 SXT valve. This is a reliable digital metered control that regenerates based on water usage. You get consistent performance from the same valve technology in both models. The primary distinction remains the resin type and the specific application each is best suited for.
Which softener is better for well water with iron?
The DuraWater 48k Grain Water Softener is the better choice for well water with iron. It features fine mesh resin engineered to handle higher iron levels effectively. This specific resin helps remove hardness more efficiently in those conditions. If you have a well, this model is the recommended option.
What are the physical dimensions of the DuraWater 48k Grain Black Softener?
This unit measures 14 inches in width and 14 inches in length. The height is 62 inches. It has a black finish and a 48,000-grain capacity. These dimensions allow it to fit in most utility spaces. You should verify your available space before installation.
How heavy is the DuraWater 48k Grain Water Softener?
The DuraWater 48k Grain Water Softener weighs 99 pounds. Its dimensions are 10 inches wide and 10 inches long, with a height of 54 inches. You can choose between black or almond colors. Ensure your installation floor can support this weight.
Is there a smart app feature for these units?
The provided specifications do not mention any smart app features or Wi-Fi connectivity for either unit. Both rely on the digital metered control of the Fleck 5600 SXT valve for operation. You should manage regeneration cycles through the valve interface rather than a mobile application.