Our verdict
Pick the Fleck 5600SXT 48,000 if you want a single-tank softener with a simpler install. Pick the Fleck 9100SXT twin-tank 48,000 if you want soft water even during regeneration.
The central trade-off
Type. Fleck 5600SXT 48,000: whole-house softener; Fleck 9100SXT twin-tank 48,000: twin-tank softener.
At an efficient salt setting. About 36,000 grains for the Fleck 5600SXT 48,000 and 36,000 for the Fleck 9100SXT twin-tank 48,000 between regenerations (three quarters of each rating). Check both against your water.
Side by side
| Specification | Fleck 5600SXT 48,000-Grain Water Softener | Fleck 9100 SXT 48,000-Grain Twin-Tank Water Softener |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Not stated by the maker | Not stated by the maker |
| Grain rating | 48,000 grains | 48,000 grains |
| Service flow | Not stated by the maker | Not stated by the maker |
| Control valve | Fleck 5600 SXT | Fleck 9100 |
| Resin | 1.5 cu ft | 1.5 cu ft |
| Dimensions | 15"L x 28"W x 62"H | 10 x 10 x 54 inches |
| Shipping weight | 53 lb | 95 lb |
| Warranty | Not stated by the maker | Not stated by the maker |
Values are the makers' published specifications. "Not stated" means the maker doesn't publish it.
Which should you choose?
Choose the Fleck 5600SXT 48,000-Grain Water Softener if
- You want a single-tank softener with a simpler install
Choose the Fleck 9100 SXT 48,000-Grain Twin-Tank Water Softener if
- You want soft water even during regeneration