Kenmore Elite 520
Score: 82/100
AFW Filters Fleck 5600SXT
Score: 86/100Rankings
The AFW Filters Built Fleck 5600SXT is a comprehensive whole-house water softening system that combines 48,000-grain softening capacity with an upflow carbon filter for superior water quality. It features NSF-approved components and a digital metered valve for efficient operation. It is best suited for households seeking both soft water and filtration for chlorine and organic contaminants.
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 | | |
|---|---|---|
31,000 grains | 48,000 grainsbest | |
11.8 GPM | 12 GPMbest | |
— | 1.5 gallonsbest | |
— | 6 personsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 52 inchesbest | 62 inches |
| ↓ lower better | 21 inches | 10 inchesbest |
| ↓ lower better | 22.5 inches | 10 inchesbest |
1 years | 10 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Build & Durability(2) | ||
Tank Material | N/A | Standard |
Warranty Length (years) | 1 years | 10 years |
Power & Compliance(2) | ||
Power Source | Corded Electric | AC |
Certifications | NSF/ANSI 42, 44 | NSF |
Performance & Capacity(4) | ||
Grain Capacity (grains) | 31000 grains | 48000 grains |
Service Flow Rate (GPM) | 11.8 GPM | 12 GPM |
Resin Volume (gallons) | Hybrid Media gallons | 1.5 gallons |
Recommended Household Size (persons) | N/A persons | 6 persons |
System & Control(4) | ||
Regeneration Control Type | Metered | Meter Demand |
System Type | Hybrid | Whole-house with Carbon Filter |
Salt Requirement | High Efficiency | 250 lbs |
Display Type | Digital | LCD |
Physical & Installation(4) | ||
Height (inches) | 52 inches | 62 inches |
Width (inches) | 21 inches | 10 inches |
Depth (inches) | 22.5 inches | 10 inches |
Weight (lbs) | N/A lbs | lbs |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
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.
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