Whirlpool WHES40 vs SpringWell UF1
Different approaches to water treatment compared side by side. Best for various water quality situations.
Whirlpool WHES40
Salt-Based Water Softener
$550
VS
SpringWell UF1
Under-Sink Filter
$150
Whirlpool WHES40 and SpringWell UF1 are different types of water treatment systems. The Whirlpool WHES40 costs $400 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: $400
The Whirlpool WHES40 costs $400 more. The question is whether the differences justify the cost for your situation.
Full Spec Comparison
| Specification | Whirlpool WHES40 | SpringWell UF1 |
|---|---|---|
| Grain Capacity | 40,000 | — |
| Flow Rate (GPM) | 8 | — |
| Bathrooms Supported | 1–4 | — |
| Regeneration Type | Demand-initiated (metered) | — |
| Resin Crosslink | 8% | — |
| Valve Type | Digital demand | — |
| Salt Usage | Sixth Sense technology optimizes salt use | — |
| Warranty | 1 year (parts), limited | — |
| Certifications | NSF/ANSI 44, 372 | NSF 42, 53 |
| Dimensions | 21.3" x 15" x 47.5" | — |
| Installation | DIY-friendly | Under-sink, DIY |
| Water Source | City & Well | — |
| Hardness Removal | Up to 125 GPG | — |
| Iron Removal | Up to 10 PPM | — |
| Filter Type | — | Carbon block + ultrafiltration |
| Chlorine Removal | — | 99.6% |
| PFAS Removal | — | 95%+ (NSF P473 pending) |
| Lead Removal | — | 99% |
| Flow Rate | — | 2 GPM |
| Filter Life | — | 1,000 gallons (~6 months) |
| Replacement Filter | — | 5 |
| Waste Water | — | None |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Whirlpool WHES40 or SpringWell UF1 better?
It depends on your situation. SpringWell UF1 ($150) is the better value for most homes. Whirlpool WHES40 ($550) offers premium features that may justify the cost for larger households or those wanting maximum convenience.
Is the SpringWell UF1 worth it at $150?
SpringWell UF1 is one of the most popular water treatment systems on the market. At $150, it offers strong performance for the price. Under-sink filtration for chlorine, PFAS, and lead without RO waste 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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