Four Types of Water Softener Systems
Microprocessor-based
One of the first types of water softener systems is the microprocessor-based variety. These are metered systems that measure how much water you use with a turbine that turns as water is used. The rate that the turbine spins is detected by a sensor which sends a signal to a computer. Depending on the variables that you set, the computer will determine if these water softener systems need to be regenerated. If they do need regeneration, the computer will start the process automatically.
Electro-mechanical
One of the next types of water softener systems is the electro-mechanical design. They are also metered systems. Like the microprocessor-based variety, they measure water consumption with a turbine. With this design, the turbine is connected to a mechanical water meter. When the set capacity has been reached, a motor is activated and these water softener systems are regenerated. These metered systems will not waste as much salt and water as other systems because they regenerate based on water consumption.
Timer
There are also water softener systems that work with a timer. Unlike metered systems, they regenerated on a set date no matter how much water you use. You have to set a day of the week that you want the system to be regenerated. These water softener systems are less expensive than other types. However, they also use the most salt since they regenerate no matter how much water you use.
Twin Tank
One of the next types of water softener systems is the twin tank design. They have two tanks filled with resin and one filled with salt. These water softener systems always have one tank that has already been regenerated while the other one is in use. Twin tank designs are basically two softener systems in one. Therefore, they will be more expensive than the other types. However, they generally last longer than other designs.
These are the different types of water softener systems. Microprocessor-based and electro-mechanical systems are metered, so they won’t waste as much salt and water as other systems. There are also water softener systems that work with a timer, so they only regenerate once a week on a day that you set. Twin tank systems are more expensive than other types because they are basically two systems in one.
