Thinking about whether this water softener will solve your hard-water headaches and fit your home?
Product overview
You’ll see the “Loaded tank Metered water softener with 3/4” Fleck 5600SXT control, 48,000 grain capacity with by-pass valve” is built to handle heavy household demands while giving you control over regeneration and programming. You can expect a high-capacity system that pairs a proven Fleck 5600SXT control valve with a robust polyglass tank and long-life 8% crosslink resin, plus metered electronics to regenerate based on actual water use.
This unit arrives ready to install with a USB drive that contains installation instructions and a video, and it includes a Purtest iron and hardness test kit so you can set it up precisely for your water conditions. The manufacturer emphasizes a compact turbine-electronic meter for accurate metering, adjustable cycle times in the programming section for customization, and an engineered double backwash to improve cleaning and longevity of the resin bed.
Key specifications
Here you’ll find the most important specs at a glance so you can quickly match the unit to your home’s needs. The table below breaks down the main technical points and what they mean for you.
| Specification | Detail | Why it matters to you |
|---|---|---|
| Product name | “Loaded tank Metered water softener with 3/4″ Fleck 5600SXT control, 48,000 grain capacity with by-pass valve” | Exact model and features in one line |
| Grain capacity | 48,000 grains | Large capacity suitable for medium to large households or very hard water |
| Control valve | 3/4″ Fleck 5600SXT | Reliable commercial-grade valve with flexible programming |
| Tank material | Polyglass (100% imported) | Durable, corrosion-resistant tank construction |
| Resin | 8% crosslink, high-capacity, long-life | Higher crosslink improves chlorine and oxidative chemical tolerance and extends life |
| Metering | Compact turbine-electronic meter | Regenerates based on actual water usage to save salt and water |
| Iron/hardness kit | Purtest kit included | Enables setup tailored to your raw water iron and hardness levels |
| Installation guide | USB drive with instructions and video | Step-by-step setup materials you can rewatch |
| Programming | Adjustable cycle times available | Fine-tune regeneration timing for efficiency and performance |
| Backwash | Double backwash engineered | Improves resin cleaning and reduces channeling |
| Bypass valve | Included | Allows service or shutoff without draining system |
You’ll appreciate that the specs emphasize efficiency and longevity, not just raw capacity. The combination of metered control and double backwash helps keep the resin performing well while limiting wasted salt and water.
Tank and build quality
The polyglass tank is described as 100% imported and high-capacity, which means it’s designed to be both strong and resistant to environmental wear. You’ll get a tank that withstands pressure and resists rust — useful if your setup is in a basement, garage, or outdoors in mild climates.
Polyglass tanks are typically lighter than steel tanks and easier to maneuver during installation, so you won’t have to wrestle with excessive weight. Because the product is “loaded,” you’ll find the resin pre-installed, so you don’t have to handle media loading yourself during setup.
Resin: 8% crosslink, high-capacity, long life
The unit uses an 8% crosslink resin, which is a higher cross-linked resin designed for longer life and better resistance to chlorine and oxidizing agents. If your water has municipal chlorine or mild oxidants, the 8% resin will maintain exchange capacity longer than lower crosslink resins.
You’ll also benefit from high-capacity resin for households that use a lot of softened water for laundry, showers, and dishwashing. With correct regeneration settings, the resin should provide reliable service for years before a replacement becomes necessary.
Control valve: Fleck 5600SXT
The Fleck 5600SXT is a widely used control valve known for durability and flexibility; the 3/4″ size is a good match for many single-family homes. You’ll appreciate the user interface on the SXT — it’s text-based and programmable, allowing you to set time of day, metered capacity, and regeneration cycles.
Because it’s a metered setup with turbine-electronic metering, the Fleck 5600SXT will regenerate based on actual water usage rather than a fixed schedule, which helps reduce salt and water waste. If you’re comfortable with basic programming, you’ll be able to adjust cycle times and other parameters to match your household’s habits.
Metering: compact turbine-electronic meter
The compact turbine-electronic meter measures flow and triggers regeneration when the preset capacity has been reached. You’ll notice more efficient operation because the system regenerates only when necessary, rather than on a calendar schedule that can waste resources.
This type of meter is generally reliable and accurate for household flow rates, but it will need clean water (free from large particulates) and proper installation orientation to maintain accuracy over time. The inclusion of a test kit helps you calibrate and verify performance during setup.
Capacity and sizing
With 48,000 grains of softening capacity, this unit is suited to moderate-to-large households or smaller households with very hard water. You’ll want to calculate your household’s daily grain removal needs — multiply the grains per gallon hardness by the number of gallons used per day — and then choose a regeneration frequency that fits your lifestyle.
Because the system is metered and has adjustable cycle times, you can fine-tune regeneration to balance water savings against efficiency of resin use. If you have a very large family or heavy water usage patterns, you may still want to confirm the 3/4″ flow rate fits peak demand to avoid flow restrictions.
Iron and hardness testing with Purtest kit
The included Purtest iron and hardness test kit allows you to measure baseline hardness and iron levels in your water before programming the softener. You’ll find this useful because iron in raw water can shorten resin life and increase regeneration frequency if levels are significant.
Testing first also helps you avoid under- or over-setting regeneration capacity — you’ll configure the Fleck SXT with accurate grain removal targets and reduce guesswork. If iron is present in higher amounts, you may need a pre-filter or specialized media; the test kit will alert you to that need.
Programming and user interface
The Fleck 5600SXT control has a clear programming structure with options for metered regeneration, time-of-day settings, and adjustable cycle times. You’ll be able to set the capacity in gallons or liters, adjust backwash/brine/rinse cycles, and choose a reserve setting so the unit saves some capacity for unexpected demand.
The USB drive included with the unit contains installation instructions and a video that walk you through programming steps and initial configuration, which is handy if you’ve never worked with a Fleck SXT valve before. Because the Fleck SXT is common, you’ll also find many community resources online if you prefer a visual tutorial beyond the provided video.
Regeneration process and double backwash
This system is engineered with a double backwash, which means the resin bed receives an extra backwash stage intended to dislodge fine particulates and reduce channeling. You’ll see better cleaning action in water sources that carry sediment, which can extend resin life and improve exchange efficiency.
During regeneration the Fleck valve moves between backwash, brine draw, slow rinse/brine, fast rinse and service modes; the double backwash adds an extra cleaning step that flushes fines out more effectively. This is particularly helpful if you have water with iron or suspended solids, though you should still consider upstream filtration if sediment is heavy.
Installation — what to expect
The unit arrives “loaded,” meaning the resin is pre-packed in the tank and the control valve is mounted, so installation is simpler than unpack-and-load setups. You’ll need basic plumbing skills and tools: pipe fittings, a wrench, plumber’s tape, and possibly a saddle valve or bulkhead fitting to tie into your household plumbing.
The USB drive with installation instructions and a video provides step-by-step guidance; however, if you’re not comfortable with plumbing or water connections, hiring a professional plumber is recommended to ensure proper sealing and orientation. Because the system includes a bypass valve, you can isolate the softener for service without cutting water to your home.
What’s included in the box
You’ll receive the main components and several accessories to get you up and running. The manufacturer typically supplies the loaded tank, control valve, drain line fitting, brine tube, by-pass valve, and the informational USB drive and test kit.
Here’s a concise list of included items so you can verify receipt:
- Pre-loaded polyglass tank with 8% crosslink resin
- 3/4″ Fleck 5600SXT control valve (mounted)
- By-pass valve for service and isolation
- Compact turbine-electronic meter (installed)
- Drain line fitting and brine tubing
- Purtest iron and hardness test kit
- USB drive with installation instructions and setup video
- User manual and basic parts list
You’ll want to check all items upon delivery and lay them out before starting installation so you don’t miss small fittings or tubing pieces.
By-pass valve and plumbing considerations
The included by-pass valve is a practical feature that lets you shut off water to the softener while keeping water flowing to the rest of the house. You’ll appreciate this when you need to service the valve or perform maintenance without interrupting household water supply.
When you install, ensure the by-pass is correctly oriented for your piping layout and that you use proper thread sealant or tape on fittings to avoid leaks. If you have high peak flow requirements (multiple showers and appliances running simultaneously), confirm the 3/4″ valve meets your expected flow rates to prevent pressure drops.
Real-world performance and reliability
In everyday use, the unit should provide consistent soft water for bathing, laundry, and appliances when correctly sized and programmed. You’ll notice softer skin and fabrics, less scale buildup on fixtures and heating elements, and potentially longer appliance life.
Because the system uses metered regeneration, you’ll likely use less salt compared to calendar-based systems — the unit only regenerates when capacity is reached. The double backwash and higher crosslink resin help maintain performance over time, minimizing efficiency loss that sometimes plagues cheaper softeners.
Salt and water usage considerations
Metered operation inherently saves salt and water when compared to time-clock systems that regenerate on a schedule regardless of usage. You’ll still need to add salt to the brine tank (if the model uses sodium chloride) periodically — frequency depends on household size, hardness, and the reserve setting you choose.
To estimate salt usage, calculate your daily grain removal needs and verify the unit’s brine usage per regeneration cycle (this varies by settings and manufacturer guidance). You can reduce salt consumption by increasing efficiency settings (lower brine dosage per regeneration) but be careful not to underdose, which would shorten effective softening performance.
Maintenance schedule and long-term care
Routine maintenance for this softener focuses on salt replenishment, occasional cleaning of the brine tank, and ensuring the drain and brine lines remain free of clogs. You’ll also want to periodically test your output water hardness and iron to confirm resin performance and adjust programming if needed.
Resin life for an 8% crosslink bed is typically longer than lower crosslink resins, but it’s still wise to check performance annually and plan for eventual resin replacement after several years depending on usage and water conditions. Keep the USB instructions handy for recommended maintenance intervals and parts replacement guidelines.
Troubleshooting common issues
If you’re experiencing problems like salty tasting water, hard spots, or frequent regeneration cycles, there are straightforward checks you can do before calling a technician. You’ll want to verify the salt level, check the brine line for blockages or kinks, confirm the Fleck SXT programming and meter readings, and use the Purtest kit to test inlet iron or a sudden change in hardness.
Other issues like a stuck valve or stuck piston can sometimes be resolved with a manual regen or cleaning as per the manual; the by-pass makes it easy to isolate the unit while you troubleshoot. If you encounter persistent mechanical issues or suspect the turbine meter is malfunctioning, contact customer support or a qualified service provider.
Common problems and fixes (quick list)
You’ll find many minor problems are fixable without professional help if you follow clear steps. Below are common problems with suggested first-line fixes.
- Problem: Unit regenerating too often. Fix: Check meter calibration, confirm hardness input, inspect for leaks or continuous draw, and adjust reserve or capacity settings.
- Problem: Softener not regenerating. Fix: Verify electronics power (batteries if applicable), check programming and clock, and ensure the meter is turning.
- Problem: Salt bridging or crust. Fix: Break up the bridge, clean the brine tank, and switch salt types if necessary.
- Problem: Cloudy water after service. Fix: Flush lines and check for trapped air; confirm installation fittings are tight.
- Problem: High iron causing staining. Fix: Test using Purtest kit; add an iron filter or pre-treatment if iron > 3 ppm.
You’ll typically resolve many issues through programmed adjustments or minor mechanical cleaning before invoking warranty support.
Comparison with similar models
When compared to other 48,000-grain softeners, the main differentiators here are the Fleck 5600SXT valve, the double backwash feature, and the 8% crosslink resin. You’ll find some competitors use different electronics, simpler resin, or single backwash cycles, which can make them slightly cheaper but potentially less durable in challenging water conditions.
If you’re comparing to twin-tank systems or larger commercial-grade setups, this model is aimed at residential to light-commercial use with a focus on cost-effectiveness and ease of installation. You’ll need to weigh whether you want a twin-tank for continuous soft water during regeneration versus this single-tank metered system that regenerates quickly and efficiently.
Who should buy this model
You should consider this softener if you have a medium-to-large household, moderate to very hard water, and you value efficient metered regeneration with flexible programming. You’ll benefit most if you want a robust tank and quality resin without stepping up to a full commercial-grade system.
If your water contains very high iron or sediment load, you may want to pair this softener with a dedicated iron filter or sediment pre-filter to protect the resin and turbine meter. If you prefer professional installation certainty, budget for a plumber to ensure optimal setup and leak-free connections.
Environmental and cost considerations
You’ll use less salt and water with a properly configured metered softener compared to time-clock models, which is better for your utility bills and environmental footprint. The double backwash process might add a bit of extra water per regeneration compared to single backwash cycles, but the improved resin cleaning can reduce the frequency of costly resin replacement.
Consider the ongoing cost of salt, occasional resin replacement, and potential pre-filter cartridges if your water quality requires them. Over the long run, the reduction in scale-related appliance failures and energy savings from descaled water heaters can offset maintenance costs.
Installation tips and best practices
When you install, make sure the unit is level, the drain line has a proper air gap, and that the control valve is accessible for programming and service. You’ll want to follow the USB installation video step-by-step, and ensure all fittings are tightened to manufacturers’ torque recommendations without over-tightening plastic components.
Plan for space around the unit for salt top-ups and periodic servicing; a cramped location makes maintenance frustrating. If your plumbing has non-standard pipe sizes, select appropriate adapters and verify the 3/4″ valve won’t create a bottleneck for your household’s peak flow demands.
Warranty and support
You should check the specific warranty details provided with your purchase because terms vary by retailer and manufacturer. Typically, Fleck valves have a reputation for durable performance and replacement parts are widely available, but confirm the resin and tank warranties included with this loaded configuration.
If you ever need help, the Fleck community and many online forums provide user-driven guidance, and the included USB instructions are a good first reference for troubleshooting and basic repairs.
Pros and cons
You’ll find this model has several strong advantages balanced by a few considerations to keep in mind. The list below summarizes the main points to help with decision-making.
Pros:
- High 48,000-grain capacity for households with substantial softening needs.
- 3/4″ Fleck 5600SXT control offers proven reliability and flexible programming.
- 8% crosslink resin enhances durability and chemical tolerance.
- Metered turbine-electronic control reduces unnecessary regenerations.
- Double backwash helps maintain resin cleanliness and longevity.
- Includes Purtest iron & hardness kit and USB installation video for easier setup.
- By-pass valve included for convenient servicing.
Cons:
- 3/4″ valve may limit peak flow in very large homes with simultaneous heavy use.
- Double backwash increases total water used per regeneration slightly (tradeoff for resin health).
- If raw water has high iron or sediment, you’ll need additional pre-treatment.
- Some users may prefer a twin-tank setup for 100% continuous soft water during regeneration.
You’ll want to ensure the balance of pros and cons matches your household’s water profile and usage patterns.
Final verdict
If you’re looking for a solid, user-friendly residential water softener with efficient metered regeneration and a reputable control valve, this loaded tank model is a strong candidate. You’ll get high-capacity resin, a durable polyglass tank, and thoughtful extras like the Purtest kit and installation video to make setup and tuning straightforward.
Before you buy, confirm your household flow needs, test your raw water for hardness and iron, and be prepared to add pre-treatment if iron or sediment levels are above what the system should handle alone. With correct sizing and setup, you’ll enjoy softer water, less scale buildup, and lower long-term maintenance than many lower-end systems.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Q: How often will this softener regenerate for a typical family of four? A: Regeneration frequency depends on your raw water hardness and daily water use. You’ll calculate daily grain removal (hardness ppm × gallons per day) and then set the Fleck SXT to regenerate at a frequency that fits your lifestyle, often once every 4–7 days for an average family.
Q: Will the 3/4″ valve cause a pressure drop with multiple fixtures running? A: The 3/4″ Fleck valve supports common residential flow rates, but if your household regularly runs multiple high-demand fixtures simultaneously (two showers + dishwasher), measure peak demand and consult flow specs; in some cases a 1″ valve or parallel plumbing may be preferable.
Q: Is the resin user-replaceable and how long does it last? A: Resin is replaceable and 8% crosslink typically lasts longer than lower crosslink media, often several years depending on iron content and maintenance. You can replace the resin yourself if comfortable with plumbing, or hire a technician for a clean swap.
Q: Do I need a water softener pre-filter? A: If your water has sediment, turbidity, or high iron, a pre-filter is strongly recommended to protect the turbine meter and resin bed. The Purtest kit included helps you decide if pre-treatment is necessary.
Q: Can you program the Fleck SXT to regenerate at night? A: Yes, you can set time-of-day on the Fleck 5600SXT so that scheduled regens happen at night when demand is low, or you can rely on metered regeneration to trigger cycles only as needed.
If you have more specific questions about sizing for your home, programming help with the Fleck SXT, or pairing this softener with filters for iron removal, tell me about your water test results and household usage and I’ll help you work through the numbers.
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