What is an Electric Water Softener: A Complete Guide
Choosing between an electronic and a non-electric water softener can be confusing if you’re not sure how they work. Both types aim to reduce hard water problems, but they operate differently and offer unique benefits. This guide breaks down the key differences to help you decide which is best for your home.
Non-Electronic vs Electric Water Softeners Explained
A water softener is a device designed to soften your property’s water supply by removing magnesium and calcium minerals that cause hard water. This process, called ion exchange, helps prevent limescale buildup in household appliances, boilers, and pipes, thus protecting your home and improving appliance efficiency. To learn more, check out our guide on How a Water Softener Works. (add link here to harvey guide)
Water softeners come in two main types: electric water softeners and non-electric water softeners. At Harvey, we specialise in non-electric water softeners, which offer distinct advantages over electric models, especially when it comes to efficiency and resource use.
How Do Electric Water Softeners Work?
Electric water softeners use a timed system to trigger regeneration, flushing hardness minerals from the resin bed at set intervals—often daily. This can lead to wasted salt and water, as regeneration occurs whether it’s needed or not. Many systems also pause softened water supply during regeneration, unlike Harvey’s twin-cylinder design, which ensures a continuous flow of soft water at all times.
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Uses an electric timer to trigger regeneration on a fixed schedule.
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Resin bed is cleaned with a mix of salt and water to remove hardness minerals.
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Regenerates even when unnecessary, leading to salt and water waste.
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Single-tank models supply hard water during regeneration cycles.
What Are Non-Electric Water Softeners?
Non-electric water softeners, like those from Harvey, use a mechanical, geared throughflow system rather than relying on electricity or timers. A water displacement meter tracks how much water has passed through and only triggers regeneration when necessary. This means your system regenerates based on actual water usage, avoiding unnecessary salt and water waste, saving you money and reducing environmental impact.
Do Water Softeners Need Electricity?
No. While electric water softeners require power to operate timers and control systems, non-electric models like Harvey’s work efficiently without any electricity, making them more environmentally friendly and cost-effective.
Why Choose a Harvey Water Softener?
Harvey is the UK’s leading brand for non-electric water softeners. Our systems connect easily to your home water supply, often fitting discreetly under the sink, and start softening water immediately. With a Harvey water softener, you’ll enjoy the benefits of limescale-free water, lower maintenance costs, and improved appliance longevity.
Ready to learn more? Book a no-obligation demonstration with one of our experts today and discover why Harvey water softeners are the best choice for your home. Get in touch now!
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Are these hard water issues familiar to you?
Clogged shower head
Stained kettles and coffee machines
Stained bathroom surfaces
Frequent maintenance of washing machines
Rough hair and skin
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Explore the benefits of softened water
Softened water provides so many benefits to your home and family, from a shiny kitchen and bathroom to being soft on skin and hair.
