If you’re battling hard water stains, soap scum, or appliances that seem to die too soon, the Fleck 5600SXT water softener is a game-changer. I’ve lived with hard water my whole life, and after installing this unit, my home feels transformed—cleaner dishes, softer skin, and no more limescale buildup.
This reliable, budget-friendly system from Pentair tackles hard water with ease, and I’m excited to share my experience. Whether you’re a homeowner or renter, this is an investment in comfort and savings you won’t regret.
My Experience With The Fleck 5600SXT
Let me take you back to when I first noticed my water issues.
Living in a region with notoriously hard water, I was fed up with the constant battle against limescale on my faucets, the dullness of my laundry, and the way my skin felt tight after every shower.
I’d tried everything—special shampoos, descaling agents, you name it—but nothing worked long-term.
That’s when I decided to invest in a water softener, and after researching, I landed on the Fleck 5600SXT.
Installing it was my first hurdle. I’m no plumber, but with some basic tools and a YouTube video, I got it set up in about two hours. The instruction manual was clear enough, though I’ll admit, I had to double-check a few connections.
Once it was running, the difference was immediate. My dishes sparkled without spots, my coffee maker stopped clogging, and my hair felt softer than ever. The digital display on the SXT controller was a lifesaver, letting me monitor water usage and salt levels at a glance.
I programmed it to match my household’s needs—four people, two bathrooms—and it’s been smooth sailing since.
What struck me most was how little I had to think about it after setup. The system’s meter-based regeneration meant it only kicked into action when needed, saving salt and water.
I’d check the brine tank every few weeks, toss in a bag of salt, and that was it. My water bill didn’t spike, and my appliances thanked me by running better. Sure, it’s not perfect—more on that later—but my experience has been overwhelmingly positive.
This thing just works, and it’s made my daily life noticeably better.
Pros of The Fleck 5600SXT
The Fleck 5600SXT has a lot going for it, and I’m not just saying that because it’s solved my hard water woes. Here’s why it stands out.
- Budget-Friendly Price Point
For a system that delivers such consistent results, the Fleck 5600SXT is surprisingly affordable.
I paid around $600, which is a steal compared to some high-end models that cost double.
You’re getting a reliable, American-made product from Pentair, a brand with decades of experience, without breaking the bank.
For small to medium-sized households, it’s a cost-effective solution that doesn’t skimp on quality.
- Impressive Grain Capacity Options
With grain capacities ranging from 24,000 to 64,000, this softener adapts to your needs. I went with the 48,000-grain model, perfect for my family of four. It handles moderately hard water with ease, removing calcium and magnesium like a champ.
If your water is harder or you have a larger household, the 64,000-grain option has you covered. This flexibility means you’re not stuck with a one-size-fits-all system.
- User-Friendly Digital Interface
The SXT digital control valve is a standout feature. Its backlit LCD display is easy to read, even in my dimly lit basement. Programming it was straightforward—just input your water hardness and household size, and the system does the rest.
It tracks water usage and regenerates only when necessary, which I love because it cuts down on waste. Plus, the touchpad controls feel modern and intuitive.
- Efficient Regeneration Process
Speaking of regeneration, the Fleck 5600SXT’s meter-based system is a huge plus. Unlike older models that regenerate on a timer, this one only kicks in when the resin beads are saturated.
In my house, that’s about every 10 days, using roughly 12 gallons of water per cycle. It’s efficient, saving both water and salt compared to less advanced systems. For eco-conscious folks, this is a big win.
- Solid Warranty Coverage
Pentair backs the Fleck 5600SXT with a five-year warranty on the control valve and a ten-year warranty on the tanks. This gave me peace of mind, knowing I wouldn’t be stuck with costly repairs if something went wrong.
The warranties reflect the system’s durability, and after two years of use, mine’s still running like new.
- Minimal Maintenance Needs
Once it’s set up, the Fleck 5600SXT is practically hands-off. I add a 40-pound bag of salt every 4-6 weeks, depending on usage, and that’s about it. The self-cleaning valve design means I don’t have to fiddle with it constantly.
For someone like me who values low upkeep, this is a major selling point.
Not-So-Good Parts of The Fleck 5600SXT
No product is perfect, and the Fleck 5600SXT has a few drawbacks. Here’s what I’ve noticed after using it for a while.
- Not the Most Efficient Option
While it’s better than older models, the Fleck 5600SXT isn’t the most efficient softener out there.
It uses more salt and water than some newer, high-efficiency units like the SoftPro Elite.
For my family, this hasn’t been a dealbreaker, but if you’re hyper-focused on minimizing waste, you might notice the difference.
Expect to use about 24 pounds of salt per regeneration for the 48,000-grain model.
- Limited Contaminant Removal
This softener is designed to tackle calcium and magnesium, and it does that well. But if your water has high iron levels or sulfur, you’ll need a pre-filter or a different system entirely. I learned this the hard way when I noticed a slight iron taste early on.
A quick water test confirmed I needed an iron filter, which added to my setup cost. If your water quality is complex, plan for additional filtration.
- Installation Can Be Tricky
While I managed to install it myself, the process isn’t foolproof. The manual is decent, but some steps felt vague, especially around plumbing connections. If you’re not handy, you might need a plumber, which could cost $200-$500.
I also heard from a friend who struggled with a faulty bypass valve, though mine worked fine. Just be prepared for a bit of elbow grease or extra expense.
- No Smart Connectivity
In 2025, I expected some smart features, but the Fleck 5600SXT doesn’t have Wi-Fi or app connectivity. You can’t monitor it remotely or get alerts when salt runs low. The digital display is great, but compared to newer models with smartphone integration, it feels a tad dated.
For tech-savvy users, this might be a letdown.
- Bulky Footprint
This system isn’t huge, but it’s not exactly compact either. The resin tank (10” x 54”) and brine tank (15” x 34”) need about 12 square feet of space. In my basement, this wasn’t an issue, but if you’re tight on space, you’ll need to plan carefully.
Also, it’s heavy—around 130 pounds—so moving it requires help.
Maintenance Tips For The Fleck 5600SXT
Keeping your Fleck 5600SXT in top shape is straightforward, but a little attention goes a long way. Here’s how I keep mine running smoothly.
- Regularly Check Salt Levels: The brine tank needs salt to regenerate the resin beads. I check mine every 3-4 weeks and add a 40-pound bag when it’s low. The SXT display estimates remaining softened water capacity, so you’ll know when to top up. Use high-purity solar or coarse salt—avoid rock salt, as it can clog the system. A 50-pound bag costs about $12 and lasts my family a month.
- Clean the Brine Tank Annually: Once a year, I give the brine tank a deep clean to prevent salt buildup or sludge. I scoop out any remaining salt, rinse the tank with warm water, and scrub gently with a non-abrasive sponge. This keeps the system efficient and prevents clogs. It takes about 30 minutes, and I do it while catching up on a podcast.
- Inspect the Resin Tank: The resin beads in the tank are the heart of the softener, and they can get fouled by iron or debris. Every 6-12 months, I run a double backwash cycle, which the SXT controller makes easy to program. If you have high iron in your water, consider adding a resin cleaner like Iron Out during this process. My water test showed low iron, so I skip this, but it’s crucial for some.
- Monitor for Leaks: The safety float in the brine tank prevents overflows, but I still check for leaks around the valves and connections every few months. A quick visual inspection can catch small issues before they become big ones. I once found a loose fitting that could’ve caused a mess—tightening it took seconds.
- Schedule Professional Servicing: While the system is low-maintenance, I have a plumber check it every 2-3 years. They inspect the resin bed, valves, and seals for wear. This costs about $100 but ensures the system lasts its full 20-30 years. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, it’s worth the investment.
- Protect from Extreme Conditions: I keep my unit indoors to avoid freezing or direct sunlight, which can cause algae growth. If you install it outside, ensure it’s in a shaded, weatherproof spot with a power source. The control valve is waterproof, but extreme cold can damage the tanks. I learned this from a neighbor whose outdoor unit cracked in a cold snap.
Comparison of Fleck 5600SXT Water Softener With Other Brands
Let’s put the Fleck 5600SXT head-to-head with the Aquasure Water Softener, Kinetico Water Softener, and WaterBoss Water Softener. I’ve dug into these systems, talked to other users, and compared specs to give you the real picture.
- Fleck 5600SXT Vs. Aquasure Water Softener
The Aquasure Harmony Series, with its 32,000 to 64,000-grain options, matches the Fleck’s capacity range, making it a solid pick for families like mine.
Its digital meter is user-friendly, much like the Fleck’s SXT controller, but it adds a sleek touchscreen that feels a bit more modern.
However, Aquasure’s regeneration uses slightly more water—about 15 gallons per cycle compared to Fleck’s 12.
Price-wise, Aquasure costs $100-$200 more, which stung when I was budgeting.
Fleck wins for affordability and reliability, but Aquasure’s interface might appeal if you love a polished look.
- Fleck 5600SXT Vs. Kinetico Water Softener
Kinetico’s Premier Series is a premium option, often priced at $1,500 or more, nearly triple the Fleck’s cost.
Its non-electric, twin-tank design means no downtime during regeneration, which is great for large households with constant water use.
A neighbor with a Kinetico raves about its efficiency, using 30% less salt than my Fleck.
But the installation?
A nightmare without professional help, costing $500-$800. Fleck’s simpler setup and lower price make it more accessible, though Kinetico’s performance is hard to beat if your budget allows.
- Fleck 5600SXT Vs. WaterBoss Water Softener
WaterBoss 900 is the compact choice, needing just 27 inches of space compared to Fleck’s 12 square feet.
It’s ideal for small homes, and its 22,000-grain capacity suits couples or small families.
A friend with a WaterBoss loves its quick 20-minute regeneration, half the Fleck’s time.
But it struggles with very hard water, and its resin bed clogs faster without regular cleaning. At $500, it’s cheaper, but Fleck’s larger capacity and durability make it better for medium-sized households like mine.
Overall, the Fleck 5600SXT strikes a balance of cost, capacity, and ease. Aquasure offers a fancier interface, Kinetico excels in efficiency, and WaterBoss saves space, but Fleck’s reliability and value keep it ahead for most homes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Both Clack and Fleck make excellent water softeners, but it depends on your needs. The Fleck 5600SXT is more affordable and user-friendly, with a straightforward digital interface and solid warranties (five years on the valve, ten on the tanks). Clack WS1 is pricier but slightly more efficient, using less water and salt. Its build is robust, but the interface can be less intuitive. For home use, I’d pick Fleck for its value and ease, but Clack is great for heavy-duty or commercial needs.
Fleck water softeners, especially the 5600SXT, are top-tier for their reliability and affordability. They effectively remove calcium and magnesium, delivering soft water that protects appliances and improves cleaning. With a 48,000-grain capacity, the 5600SXT suits most families, and its digital meter minimizes waste. While it lacks smart features and isn’t the most efficient, its durability (20-30 years with proper care) and Pentair’s reputation make it a trusted choice. Over 400 Amazon reviews averaging 4 stars back this up.
The Fleck 5600SXT’s regeneration cycle typically takes about two hours. This includes backwashing, brining, and rinsing to clean the resin beads. My system regenerates every 10 days or so, using about 12 gallons of water per cycle. You can adjust the settings to prioritize efficiency or capacity, but two hours is standard for the 48,000-grain model.
With proper maintenance, the Fleck 5600SXT can last 20-30 years. The resin beads last about seven years before needing replacement, but the tanks and valve are built to endure. My unit’s been running flawlessly for two years, and the ten-year tank warranty and five-year valve warranty give me confidence it’ll last decades. Regular salt refills and occasional cleaning are key to longevity.
Conclusion: Why The Fleck 5600SXT Is Worth It?
After two years with the Fleck 5600SXT, I can say it’s a solid investment for anyone dealing with hard water. It’s affordable, reliable, and easy to maintain, delivering soft water that transforms your home.
From sparkling dishes to longer-lasting appliances, the benefits are real. Despite minor drawbacks like efficiency and installation challenges, it’s a trusted solution that’s hard to beat.
If you’re ready for softer water and fewer hassles, grab the Fleck 5600SXT—you’ll thank yourself every time you shower.