Fleck 5600SXT vs Whirlpool WHES40
Two popular Salt-Based Water Softeners compared side by side. Best for hard water above 120 PPM.
Fleck 5600SXT and Whirlpool WHES40 are both Salt-Based Water Softeners. Fleck 5600SXT is best for: Budget-conscious buyers with large homes or very hard water. Whirlpool WHES40 is best for: Budget shoppers who want a certified softener available at a retail store.
The key spec differences: Grain Capacity: Fleck offers 48,000 while Whirlpool provides 40,000. Flow Rate (GPM): Fleck offers 12 while Whirlpool provides 8. Bathrooms Supported: Fleck offers 1-6 while Whirlpool provides 1-4. Regeneration Type: Fleck offers Metered SXT digital while Whirlpool provides Demand-initiated (metered).
The Whirlpool WHES40 is the more affordable option at $550 vs $650, a difference of $100. Check your city's water data first to confirm which type of system your water needs.
Full Spec Comparison
| Specification | Fleck 5600SXT | Whirlpool WHES40 |
|---|---|---|
| Grain Capacity | 48,000 | 40,000 |
| Flow Rate (GPM) | 12 | 8 |
| Bathrooms Supported | 1-6 | 1-4 |
| Regeneration Type | Metered SXT digital | Demand-initiated (metered) |
| Resin Crosslink | 8% | 8% |
| Valve Type | Fleck 5600SXT digital metered | Digital demand |
| Salt Usage | ~40 lb bag every 4-6 weeks | Sixth Sense technology optimizes salt use |
| Warranty | 5 years (valve), 10 years (tank) | 1 year (parts), limited |
| Certifications | NSF/ANSI 44 | NSF/ANSI 44, 372 |
| Dimensions | 10" x 54" tank + brine tank | 21.3" x 15" x 47.5" |
| Installation | Moderate (plumbing required) | DIY-friendly |
| Water Source | City & Well | City & Well |
| Hardness Removal | Up to 75 GPG | Up to 125 GPG |
| Iron Removal | Up to 8 PPM | Up to 10 PPM |
Pros and Cons
Best For
Budget-conscious buyers with large homes or very hard water
Budget shoppers who want a certified softener available at a retail store
Our Assessment
Fleck 5600SXT: The Fleck 5600SXT is the industry workhorse. NSF-certified, huge capacity, and the Fleck valve is the most trusted name in water softening. Best value per grain of capacity.
Whirlpool WHES40: The Whirlpool WHES40 is the easiest softener to buy - walk into Lowe's and take it home. NSF-certified and handles very hard water, but the 1-year warranty is a weakness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Fleck 5600SXT or Whirlpool WHES40 better?
Is the Fleck 5600SXT a good choice?
What is the difference between a water softener and a water filter?
The Short Version
Fleck 5600SXT is best for budget-conscious buyers with large homes or very hard water. Whirlpool WHES40 is best for budget shoppers who want a certified softener available at a retail store. Check your water data to confirm what you are treating.
Related Comparisons
Related Guides
Affiliate disclosure: CheckMyTap earns a commission if you purchase through links on this page, at no extra cost to you. We only compare products from brands with affiliate programs. Specs and pricing are based on manufacturer data and may change. Full disclosure