Fleck 5600SXT vs Aquasana EQ-1000
Different approaches to water treatment compared side by side. Best for homes with contaminant concerns (PFAS, chlorine, lead).
Fleck 5600SXT
Salt-Based Water Softener
$650
VS
Aquasana EQ-1000
Whole House Water Filter
$999
Fleck 5600SXT and Aquasana EQ-1000 are different types of water treatment systems. The Aquasana EQ-1000 costs $349 more. The right choice depends on your water data, household size, and which features matter most to you. Check your city's water quality first to understand what you are treating.
Price Difference: $349
The Aquasana EQ-1000 costs $349 more. The question is whether the differences justify the cost for your situation.
Full Spec Comparison
| Specification | Fleck 5600SXT | Aquasana EQ-1000 |
|---|---|---|
| Grain Capacity | 48,000 | — |
| Flow Rate (GPM) | 12 | 7 |
| Bathrooms Supported | 1–6 | 1–3 |
| Regeneration Type | Metered SXT digital | — |
| Resin Crosslink | 8% | — |
| Valve Type | Fleck 5600SXT digital metered | — |
| Salt Usage | ~40 lb bag every 4–6 weeks | — |
| Warranty | 5 years (valve), 10 years (tank) | 10 years |
| Certifications | NSF/ANSI 44 | NSF/ANSI 42, 53, P473 (PFAS) |
| Dimensions | 10" x 54" tank + brine tank | 9" x 46" main tank |
| Installation | Moderate (plumbing required) | Professional recommended |
| Water Source | City & Well | City water |
| Hardness Removal | Up to 75 GPG | — |
| Iron Removal | Up to 8 PPM | — |
| Filtration Stages | — | 3-stage |
| Filter Media | — | KDF-55 + Activated Carbon + Copper-Zinc |
| Capacity | — | 1,000,000 gallons / 10 years |
| Contaminants Removed | — | Chlorine, lead, mercury, VOCs, pesticides, herbicides |
| Filter Life | — | 10 years (main tank), 6 months (pre/post filters) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Fleck 5600SXT or Aquasana EQ-1000 better?
It depends on your situation. Fleck 5600SXT ($650) is the better value for most homes. Aquasana EQ-1000 ($999) offers premium features that may justify the cost for larger households or those wanting maximum convenience.
Is the Fleck 5600SXT worth it at $650?
Fleck 5600SXT is one of the most popular water treatment systems on the market. At $650, it offers strong performance for the price. Budget-conscious buyers with large homes or very hard water
What is the difference between a water softener and a water filter?
A water softener removes hardness minerals (calcium, magnesium) that cause scale. A filter removes contaminants (chlorine, PFAS, lead). They solve different problems. Many homes need both. See our detailed guide. Read our full guide →
Related Guides
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