AFW Filters Iron Pro 2
Score: 85/100
Kenmore Elite 520
Score: 82/100Rankings
The AFWFilters Iron Pro 2 is a combination water softener and iron filter designed for whole-house treatment of hard water and ferrous iron. It utilizes fine mesh resin and a Fleck 5600SXT digital metered control valve to remove hardness minerals, iron, and manganese while regenerating on-demand based on actual water usage. It is best suited for homes with 2-5 people dealing with both hard water and ferrous iron contamination.
The Kenmore Elite 520 is a versatile 2-in-1 hybrid system that combines 31,000-grain softening with carbon filtration, offering NSF certification and self-cleaning capabilities. Its primary trade-off is a lower grain capacity compared to dedicated softeners and higher water usage per regeneration. It is best suited for households seeking a single unit for both softening and filtration without the hassle of filter replacements.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
64,000 grainsbest | 31,000 grains | |
16 GPMbest | 11.8 GPM | |
2 gallonsbest | — | |
5 personsbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 62 inches | 52 inchesbest |
| ↓ lower better | 13 inchesbest | 21 inches |
| ↓ lower better | 14 inchesbest | 22.5 inches |
10 yearsbest | 1 years |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Build & Durability(2) | ||
Tank Material | Unknown | N/A |
Warranty Length (years) | 10 years | 1 years |
Power & Compliance(2) | ||
Power Source | Electric | Corded Electric |
Certifications | None Listed | NSF/ANSI 42, 44 |
Performance & Capacity(5) | ||
Grain Capacity (grains) | 64000 grains | 31000 grains |
Service Flow Rate (GPM) | 16 GPM | 11.8 GPM |
Resin Volume (gallons) | 2 gallons | Hybrid Media gallons |
Recommended Household Size (persons) | 5 persons | N/A persons |
Operating Pressure (PSI) | Unknown PSI | 20-125 PSI |
System & Control(3) | ||
Regeneration Control Type | Digital Metered | Metered |
System Type | Combination Softener/Iron Filter | Hybrid |
Salt Requirement | Standard Salt | High Efficiency |
Physical & Installation(4) | ||
Height (inches) | 62 inches | 52 inches |
Width (inches) | 13 inches | 21 inches |
Depth (inches) | 14 inches | 22.5 inches |
Weight (lbs) | Unknown lbs | N/A lbs |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional analysis highlights the system's efficiency in combining softening and iron removal with metered regeneration to reduce resource consumption. The fine mesh resin is noted for its durability in iron-rich conditions, though experts caution that it is strictly for ferrous iron and requires separate solutions for ferric iron issues.
Data indicates that users value the all-in-one nature of the system and the convenience of DIY installation. However, there is limited consumer feedback available, making it difficult to assess long-term user satisfaction or recurring maintenance complaints beyond the standard salt refill requirements.
Professional reviewers identify the Kenmore Elite 520 as a competitive hybrid option that effectively combines water softening with carbon filtration. The 31,000-grain capacity is highlighted as a valuable middle-ground feature, offering integrated contaminant reduction for chlorine and sediment without the bulk of larger 40,000-grain systems.
Users report significant improvements in daily living conditions, including softer skin and hair, cleaner laundry, and better-tasting water. Common praise focuses on the prevention of mineral stains and calcium buildup, as well as the financial benefit of reduced soap and detergent usage.
