You may well have seen or even used a standard water softener in your home. However, many people won’t have heard of a citric acid water softener and the potential benefits offered by this type of system when compared to salt-based water softeners.
Citric acid water softeners work in a similar way to a salt-based water softener but deliver soft water by affecting hardness-causing minerals as opposed to removing them altogether.
This article will guide you on all you need to know about this type of water softener, as well as the best citric acid systems on the market right now.
Our Top Recommend Picks
Best Overall
Best Value
Best Budget-Friendly
Pelican Water PSF-1NH 3-Stage Premium Shower Filter Without Head
Filtersmart Whole House Water Filter System & Salt Free Water Softener Combo
SpringWell Futuresoft Salt Free Water Softener (1-3 Bathrooms) - Whole House Water Conditioner & Descaler
SpringWell Futuresoft Salt Free Water Softener (1-3 Bathrooms) - Whole House Water Conditioner & Descaler
Pelican Water PSF-1NH 3-Stage Premium Shower Filter Without Head
Filtersmart Whole House Water Filter System & Salt Free Water Softener Combo, Filters Chlorine & Sediment Filtration for 1-3 Baths, 12 GPM, 1 Million Gallons
Aquios DS300 Duo Full House Salt Free Water Softener & Filter System - Premium 2 Stage Catalytic Carbon Filtration - Chloramine/Chlorine/HS2 Removal
Filtersmart Whole House Water Filter System & Salt Free Water Softener Combo, Filters Chlorine & Sediment Filtration for 1-3 Baths, 12 GPM, 1 Million Gallons
Citric Acid Water Softeners that are worth mentioning
Shower Filter Water Softener | Attach To Showerhead To Remove Chlorine, Fluoride, Odors, Heavy Metals - Adds Vitamin C, Minerals, Oxygen- Boosts Health of Your Skin, Hair & Nails (15 Stage)
Hansing Whole House Water Softener System, High Efficiency Water Descaler, Heavy Duty Hard Water Filter - Reduce Scale and Chlorine for Heater, Shower Head, Dishwasher, Kitchen Sink and Laundry
Eddy Electronic Water Descaler - Water Softener Alternative
Tier1 Everyday Series 48,000 Grain High-Efficiency Digital Water Softener
Iron Pro 2 Combination water softener iron filter Fleck 5600SXT digital metered valve 64,000 grain, 64k for whole house
Shower Filter Water Softener | Attach To Showerhead To Remove Chlorine, Fluoride, Odors, Heavy Metals - Adds Vitamin C, Minerals, Oxygen- Boosts Health of Your Skin, Hair & Nails (15 Stage)
Hansing Whole House Water Softener System, High Efficiency Water Descaler, Heavy Duty Hard Water Filter - Reduce Scale and Chlorine for Heater, Shower Head, Dishwasher, Kitchen Sink and Laundry
We’ve searched all over to find the very best citric acid softener systems on the market right now. Below you will see each one, along with a brief description and then pros and cons for each so you can make an informed choice about the best choice for your individual requirements.
1.NuvoH2O Home Water Softener System
NuvoH2O is well-known in the water softener and filtration world for delivering effective, quality systems, so you can’t go far wrong with this softener. It utilizes a unique chemical formation that helps prevent limescale build-up whilst not affecting detergents and soap.
The citric acid chelation system binds to the hardness-causing molecules, minimizing the chances that they stick to the surfaces in your pipes and appliances. It has a service life of around 20,000-gallons which is a fantastic amount for smaller households and flats.
2. Shower Filter Water Softener | Attach To Showerhead To Remove Chlorine, Fluoride, Odors, Heavy Metals – Adds Vitamin C, Minerals, Oxygen- Boosts Health of Your Skin, Hair & Nails (15 Stage)
A compact, stylish product next and it’s easy to see why so many people love this system.
It has a 15-stage filtration and purification system that not only softeners your water supply but helps remove harmful contaminants found in the water supply, such as heavy metals, chlorine, and more.
Whilst it isn’t quite a citric acid water softener, it does add vitamin C to the water supply to help protect your skin and hair. This also means it performs in a similar way in that it offers healthier showers for everyone in your home.
It is quick and easy to install this showerhead and thanks to its design, it will fit in with modern bathrooms and isn’t too heavy to hold.
3. Eddy Electronic Water Descaler – Water Softener Alternative
Another system that made it onto our list even though it technically doesn’t operate with citric acid. However, it operates in a very similar way and is a fantastic alternative to salt-based water softeners.
This simple yet effective system prevents limescale from forming by using electricity to draw magnesium and calcium from the surface of pipes.
It will help extend the life of your plumbing and faucets, saving plenty of money thanks to its next to zero maintenance requirements. Easy to install, you simply loop the coils around your water pipe but obviously you must make sure it is near a plug to supply electricity so this may limit where you can install it.
Pros
Cons
A very effective way to prevent hard water without the use of salt
Easy to install and no maintenance required
A good choice for those wanting to keep healthy minerals in the water supply
It does require electricity which may limit where you can install it
4. Hansing Whole House Water Softener System, High-Efficiency Water Descaler, Heavy Duty Hard Water Filter
Another alternative to a salt-based water softener, this system is made from stainless steel and you can sense the quality of this system.
It treats water without adding sodium and has an effective rate of around 95% so you can trust it will deliver soft water for your household.
The descaler within it is made from fruits polysaccharides and coconut activated carbon, far healthier than chemicals whilst still retaining healthy minerals. With a capacity of 280,000-grains, it will do a fantastic job for most households and you can get replacement filters relatively easily. Maintenance isn’t too tough either as they have thought about an efficient filter change process.
Pros
Cons
Uses stainless steel for added quality and rust prevention
Doesn’t use chemicals like some other salt-based water softeners
Easy to replace cartridges
Some reported needing support from a professional plumber to install this model
5.Tier1 Everyday Series 48,000 Grain High-Efficiency Digital Water Softener
Tier1 is another popular manufacturer for water softeners and water filters and this 48,000-grain capacity option is a fantastic choice for most households. Once more, it doesn’t technically fall under the banner of a citric acid water softener but it is important to offer an alternative for those wanting the very best in water softeners.
It has an advanced digital meter control valve that operates a regeneration cycle that is on-demand, so it doesn’t waste water by regenerating at a set time but when necessary. Highly efficient to run and comes with connections pre-installed to make life easier when installing in the home.
Pros
Cons
Perfect choice for medium to large homes
A helpful digital meter makes it easy to operate
It comes with connections pre-installed
As it is a salt-based water softener is does require regular maintenance
6. Springwell Futuresoft Salt-Free Water Softener – Whole House Water Conditioner & Descaler
As a fantastic alternative to a citric water softener or the many salt-based water softeners out there, then this system from Springwell is the one to go for. It is said to work better than a citric acid system at preventing limescale build-up and as a result of not being salt-based, it delivers soft water without the harm to the environment that salt causes.
This whole-house system is designed for larger houses, as it has a water conditioning capacity of an incredible 1,000,000 gallons which means busy households can use it for approximately 10 years!
Yes, that does translate to an expensive option but for those larger homes, it may well be worth it.
Pros
Cons
A 1,000,000 gallon capacity which translates to approximately 10 years of use
It doesn’t require salt or electricity to operate
Very effective at softening water
One of the most expensive systems on the list and maybe too much for many customers
7. Aquios DS300 Duo Full House Salt-Free Water Softener & Filter System – Premium 2 Stage Catalytic Carbon Filtration
The Aquios DS300 is another relatively expensive softener on our list but this whole-house model also offers highly effective filtration. One of the stand-out features of this system is that it can handle very hard water, up to levels of 30 GPG.
Compared to most other models that work up to 20 GPG, you can see why the added cost may be worth it to some customers. It has been designed to operate with a high flow rate, whilst also filtering the harmful contaminants often found in water supplies.
You can make sure your water is soft, clean, and safe whilst removing odors. All the while it is protecting pipes, faucets, and appliances as it prevents limescale from building up. You also get a 20-year warranty with this system.
Pros
Cons
It will cope with very high levels of hard water (up to 30 GPG)
It delivers a high flow rate and high filtration rate
8. Filtersmart Whole House Water Filter System & Salt-Free Water Softener Combo
Next on our list is this Filtersmart whole-house filtration and softener system and it will appeal to many homeowners. Firstly, it will provide filtered, soft water to most homes except possibly some larger ones.
It has a flow rate of 12 GPM so it should cope with the daily requirements of a family and has a 1,000,000 gallon capacity so it will be a fantastic investment. Its filter help remove many of the harmful contaminants found in water supplies including chlorine, pesticides, VOCs, THMs, and more.
You can trust the water your children are drinking thanks to this effective and efficient filter and softener combo. With minimal maintenance required as it is salt-free, you will simply need to change over the sediment pre-filter every so often.
Easy to install and kind on the environment, you can’t go wrong with this system.
Pros
Cons
An effective salt-free softener and filter combo
It has a 1,000,000 gallon capacity
Easy to install and minimal maintenance required
Some reports that it isn’t the greatest softener but does deliver filtered water
9. Pelican Water PSF-1NH 3-Stage Premium Shower Filter Without Head
One of the shower filters that we believe should make it onto the list, thanks to its impressive statistics. Firstly, it will remove over 96% of chlorine found in your water which dramatically improves the odor and taste.
You can also include a scent bar for added aromatherapy whilst showing for a more relaxing experience. It is an efficient system that saves water, with a 1.5 GPM flow rate and a filter that lasts up to 15,000 gallons.
That is roughly the same as 750 showers that last 10 minutes. When it comes time to change the filter, which will probably be around the 6-month mark it is simple to do. Very easy to install and available in both white and chrome, it is a stylish addition to your shower whilst helping protect you and your family.
Pros
Cons
It is easy to install and changing filters takes seconds
Each filter will last for up to 15,000 gallons of water
It will remove 96% of chlorine found in the water supply
Be careful that existing showerheads fit this system before buying it
10. Iron Pro 2 Combination water softener iron filter Fleck 5600SXT digital metered valve 64,000 grain
One of the most popular softener systems on the market and one that makes it onto almost every list we create. The Iron Pro 2 is a softener and filter that utilizes the Fleck 5600 SXT digital meter valve for efficiency and ease of use.
It is a whole-house system that doesn’t use citric acid but does deliver effective results, with a 64,000-grain capacity making it perfect for most household sizes. This system will remove hardness from the water supply, as well as iron (up to 6ppm), manganese (up to 6ppm), sediment, and rust.
You will get everything you require including a brine tank, bypass valve, and clear instructions but for those who are new to DIY, you may wish to get some help from a professional. You can certainly trust that the Iron Pro 2 will deliver results.
Pros
Cons
An efficient softener and filter that uses the Fleck 5600SXT
It has a 64,000-grain capacity so it is suited to most households
It will remove hardness causing minerals as well as iron, sediment, and rust
Some may find whole-house systems more complicated to install
Buyers guide for choosing the Best citric acid water softeners for you.
It is always important to be aware of the key features to look out for and the factors involved in buying a product.
Whether it is a citric acid water softener or one of the alternatives on our list, think about the following factors before shortlisting the most suitable products.
Things you should consider
Size and Type
Firstly, you should be thinking about the size and capacity of the water softener that will be installed in your home. If you buy the wrong softener then it won’t cope with your requirements, costing you money and creating a lot of stress.
Take the time to assess the water usage in your household and there are plenty of online calculators to help with them. Also, think about how hard your water supply is and this can be done by obtaining a report or performing a simple home test using the kits available online and in shops.
Secondly, you want to think about the type of softener you wish to use. Is it a citric acid water softener? Is it a salt-free model or a salt-based water softener? All have their pros and cons so think carefully. For those wanting to avoid sodium and be kinder to the environment, then a salt-free type system such as a citric acid water softener is a great choice.
Features
As you will see from our shortlist of the best citric acid softeners and alternatives, each one is far more than a simple softener. They will have helpful digital controls, larger tanks, added filtration systems, and remineralization options.
It is important to consider what you need and what you already have in the home, as this will prevent you from wasting money or going over budget.
For example, if you already have a filtration system in place or a faucet filter then you may just need to go for one of the more straightforward water softeners on the list. Equally, if you don’t have that in place and live in an area with particularly hard or poorly treated water, then the more powerful systems will be better suited to delivering odor-free drinking water.
Durability
These units will be used a lot, particularly in busy households so you want to make sure they are durable, effective, and don’t cost a fortune to maintain.
Whether it is a citric acid model that doesn’t require salt, or perhaps it has a 5-stage filtration component that requires filter changes, you should consider what could go wrong and what the costs are for maintaining it.
Fortunately, the majority of systems on the market right now are durable and long-lasting, often coming with long-term warranties to provide reassurance. They are also made with BPA-free plastic or stainless steel in most circumstances but it’s best to check before buying.
Service and warranty
It is often a case that the bigger, more experienced manufacturers will provide better warranties and customer service. This is partly because they have the experience and expertise but also because they can afford to do so. Always take a moment to read what warranties and guarantees you get with a product, as well as customer feedback on how to service them or replace them if required. There are plenty of citric water softener reviews out there to help with this.
Installation and Maintenance
Many of these systems are whole-house softeners and filters which means they can be a little more complicated to install. If you have experience with DIY then you will likely have no problems but if you’re worried about it, then we advise speaking to a professional plumber to get a quote before making a purchase. Some of the showerhead filters are very easy to install and take minutes to do so.
When it comes to maintenance, a citric acid water softener or salt-free softener often requires far less maintenance when compared to salt-based water softeners. However, you need to remember that the softeners that come with filters will require replacement filter changes so take care to research the cost of these and how easy they are to do.
How does a Citric Acid Water Softener Work?
In general, water softeners operate by removing hard water-causing ions found in the water supply, such as magnesium and calcium. They do this to stop them from sticking to surfaces or reacting with detergents in your plumbing system, prolonging the performance and life span of plumbing and appliances.
There are different ways to soften water, such as replacing those hardness-causing ions with sodium ions as used in salt-based water softeners (a process called ion exchange). Where a citric acid water softener differs is that it uses a process called chelation.
This is a process of bonding to molecules as opposed to replacing them so it doesn’t actually remove them from the system but prevents them from sticking to pipes, appliances, and faucets. It is a popular choice as a citric acid water softener often reacts better with detergents and can prevent scale build-up by up to 99%.
What are the advantages of having Citric Acid Water Softeners?
There are some fantastic benefits to using a citric acid water softener and we’ve listed just a handful below to help you decide whether this is the right type of softener system for you.
Removing limescale
The process of chelation that is used by a citric acid water softener is fantastic at removing limescale and preventing scale build-up. Research has shown that this process is effective at preventing the build-up of scale by 99%.
It also helps detergents and soaps to work better, helping clean appliances and promoting healthier skin and hair.
Minimal maintenance
Thanks to the lack of salt, citric acid, and other salt-free softeners are great for those that want minimal maintenance once the system is installed. Depending on the system you go for, there will be filters to change but the lifespan of these is fantastic nowadays and it will likely be every 6 months or every year that you would need to change them.
Always do your research first, but going for this type of system will certainly reduce the effort required and long-term costs involved with maintenance.
A Salt-free water softener system
Many people out there want to live a healthier life and softened water and with a citric acid water softener, you can ensure you don’t add extra sodium to your diet. For those that have a medical reason to avoid sodium, then this makes even more sense!
Furthermore, it will be kinder to your skin as you won’t be adding salt to the water supply. These options will generally be kinder to the environment as well, with minimal waste and energy use, as well as no salt usage so you can save money, improve your health and look after the environment all in one go.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does citric acid soften water?
Yes, they will soften hard water. Citric acid is a chelating agent which means it will react with metal irons in the way and remove the properties that make them more likely to stick to surfaces in your pipes and appliances.
This means it operates in a different way to other water softeners, as it doesn’t remove those minerals but it still delivers fantastic results. Some may think of a citric acid water filter or softener as more like water conditioners you find.
Are Citric Acid Water Softeners Eco Friendly?
Yes, they are a great option for those worried about the environment or wanting to be kinder to the environment. They generally don’t require electricity and have minimal waste, as well as not requiring any salt.
All of this adds up to be cheaper to run, more effective, and kinder to the environment. It is often a selling point by many manufacturers that these are environmentally friendly options.
Are Citric Acid Water Softeners the cheapest water filtration systems?
They are certainly an affordable solution but it isn’t quite a simple as yes or no. It very much depends on the system you go for and what features it has. It requires less maintenance than salt-based systems so there are savings to be had there, but it is important to find out exactly what you require and then shortlist from there.
That will you will know the costs of the different systems within your price range and from there you will know if one of the citric acid water softeners is the right choice for your household.
Summary
In summary, a citric acid water softener is a fantastic choice for those wanting a water softener in their home. There aren’t that many to choose from on the market at the moment and that is why we have included a range of alternatives so that you can select the most suitable water softener system. This may be one of the salt-free water softeners on our list, a salt-based water filter, and softener, or a combination of the above. Whilst the processes of ion exchange or chelation mean different things, they still result in the same thing which is softer, healthier water.
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