Fleck Econominder Review:
The Original, Non-Digital 5600 Water Softener
Summary
We Like
What Could Be Better
Table of Contents
Hi, I’m Heather!
I’ll help you get set up with the right water softener for your needs in seconds.
Product Comparison
What we consider in water softener reviews
We pride ourselves as experts and do a lot of water softener reviews. We’ve found that most peoples’ eyes glaze over when they come across long lists of technical jargon.
Unless you a plumber, you probably only want to know these things when you’re looking for the right water softener…
- Does it work?
- Is it reliable?
- Is it worth the cost?
Very few property owners and managers are experts in water softeners, and that’s why we’ve deciphered the specs for you—so you can make the decision that makes the most sense for your situation.
Having said that, here are the main features of the Fleck 5600 Econominder we think you should know.
1) Does it work?
Most households have some amount of hard water. If it’s especially problematic in your area, you’re probably familiar with these frustrations:
- More wear and tear on your pipes and appliances
- Hard-to-clean staining and deposits on sink fixtures, bathtubs and toilets
- More difficulty getting lather in soap, meaning everything is harder to clean (including clothes, skin and hair)
So, the goal of this review is to address the question: does the water softener effectively soften the water and solve these problems?
2) Is it reliable?
When you install a new water softener, the last thing you want is for it to fall apart in just a few months.
That’s why we test water softeners for their durability and reliability, in addition to their effectiveness. We’ll let you know about any problems we detect before you make an investment.
In every water softener we evaluate, we examine the expected lifespan of the product as well as manufacturer warranties.
3) Is it worth the cost?
No one wants their hard-earned money to go to waste! We take this into consideration to help you decide if it’s better to get the economical solution that will save upfront costs, or to invest in a high-end, maximum efficiency device.
Prices can vary depending on the seller, but we answer these basic cost questions for every buyer:
- How does the price of the system compare with other options?
- What are the features of higher-priced options, and are they worth the extra expense?
- What are the short-term versus the long-term savings when it comes to the efficiency of the product?
With these three core questions in mind, here are our thoughts on the Fleck 5600 Econominder.
Fleck 5600 Econominder review: Who is it for?
The Fleck 5600 Econominder is a good fit for households of up to 8 people, depending on the natural hardness of your water. It comes in various sizes, from the 24,000- to 64,000 grain capacity.
You’ll find that this water softener system works in most standard residential settings, including:
- Single-family homes
- Townhouses
- Duplexes
This model can also be used is small office or commercial settings.
To determine what grain capacity you’ll need, use this calculator.
This system is also ideal for the DIY property owner who wants less expensive costs up front. It’s easy to install and use, and it will get the job done.
Performance
We perform extensive testing in a number of environments, including well water and municipally-treated water. The Fleck Econominder passed with flying colors.
The water processed by this system felt as soft and smooth as it should. This effectively prevents wear and tear on plumbing, fixtures and appliances. It effectively processed and minimized the “hard” minerals that are responsible for hard water problems.
Key Features
One of the features that sets the Fleck 5600 Econominder apart is the paddle wheel system. Most traditional water softeners use a turbine wheel, which after time can start sticking due to residue. You have to take it out and clean it manually.
The paddle wheel eliminates this problem, making this system easier to use and maintain.
Unlike digital models, the control valve is very basic. This is fine if you don’t mind adjusting it yourself, but some people prefer the programming options available in updated models like the Fleck 5600SXT.
Important note:
- Some sellers will package the 5600 Econominder valve with other Fleck components, while some use other manufacturers' brine and mineral tanks.
- When buying a packaged water softener, be sure to look closely at the tank sizes, resin types and any included (or lack of) installation accessories. We also recommend purchasing from a supplier with reputable customer support, so you can get the help you need.
Value
If you’re looking for a water softener with outstanding value, the Fleck Econominder is the way to go. It’s built from a reputable company and is decently efficient, for a low sticker price.
There are higher efficiency models available that will generate savings in the long term. Not only do they last longer, but they’ll use less water and salt for the same result. Over a period of 5-10 years, those differences can add up, especially where the water is especially hard.
Warranty
The Fleck Econominder water softener control valve comes with a 5-year manufacturer's warranty. For an economical option, this is sufficient. However, there are products available with more extensive coverage. If you want a low sticker cost, then this system may be for you. But if you to invest in systems with a longer warranty, then a higher-end system may be better for you.
Note that brine and mineral tanks often come with a 10-year warranty or more, so be sure to consider that information when you make your purchase.
The Final Word
- Fleck is a trusted brand in the water softener industry. The Fleck Econominder is a baseline product that has proven its effectiveness for years.
- When it comes down to it, the purchase price is economical, and the product gets the job done reliably.
- Where this system falls short is in its efficiency. If you’re interested in long-term savings, you may want to consider higher end products from brands like SoftPro. If you prefer to stick with Fleck, but want something newer, then we recommend upgrading to the digital 5600SXT.
Is the Fleck Econominder right for you?
Use this calculator to see recommended water softener systems based on your individual needs and goals.
About the nerds who wrote this.
About the Author
