Fleck 5600SXT vs Crystal Quest CQE-WH-01126
Two popular Salt-Based Water Softeners compared side by side. Best for hard water above 120 PPM.
Fleck 5600SXT
Salt-Based Water Softener
$650
VS
Crystal Quest CQE-WH-01126
Salt-Based Water Softener
$1,350
Fleck 5600SXT and Crystal Quest CQE-WH-01126 are both Salt-Based Water Softeners. The Crystal Quest CQE-WH-01126 costs $700 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: $700
The Crystal Quest CQE-WH-01126 costs $700 more. The question is whether the differences justify the cost for your situation.
Full Spec Comparison
| Specification | Fleck 5600SXT | Crystal Quest CQE-WH-01126 |
|---|---|---|
| Grain Capacity | 48,000 | 48,000 |
| Flow Rate (GPM) | 12 | 10 |
| Bathrooms Supported | 1–6 | 1–5 |
| Regeneration Type | Metered SXT digital | Metered on-demand |
| Resin Crosslink | 8% | 10% |
| Valve Type | Fleck 5600SXT digital metered | Digital metered |
| Salt Usage | ~40 lb bag every 4–6 weeks | Standard |
| Warranty | 5 years (valve), 10 years (tank) | Lifetime |
| Certifications | NSF/ANSI 44 | NSF-certified components |
| Dimensions | 10" x 54" tank + brine tank | 10" x 54" tank + brine tank |
| Installation | Moderate (plumbing required) | Professional recommended |
| Water Source | City & Well | City & Well |
| Hardness Removal | Up to 75 GPG | Up to 75 GPG |
| Iron Removal | Up to 8 PPM | Up to 6 PPM |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Fleck 5600SXT or Crystal Quest CQE-WH-01126 better?
It depends on your situation. Fleck 5600SXT ($650) is the better value for most homes. Crystal Quest CQE-WH-01126 ($1,350) 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 Salt-Based Water Softeners 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
Affiliate disclosure: CheckMyTap earns a commission if you purchase through our links. This does not affect our analysis. We compare systems based on water data and household needs, not commission rates. Full disclosure →