Kenmore Elite 520
Score: 82/100
Kind Water E-3000
Score: 78/100Rankings
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.
The Kind E-3000 is a compact, whole-house water filtration system that combines three stages of filtration with salt-free softening technology for municipal water systems. It removes over 155 contaminants while preventing scale buildup through Template Assisted Crystallization, requiring no electricity, salt, or complex maintenance. Best suited for municipal water users with low-to-medium hardness levels seeking contaminant reduction.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
31,000 grainsbest | 75 grains | |
11.8 GPM | 15 GPMbest | |
— | 6 personsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 52 inches | 29 inchesbest |
| ↓ lower better | 21 inches | 9 inchesbest |
| ↓ lower better | 22.5 inchesbest | 25 inches |
1 yearsbest | — | |
20 PSI | 25 PSIbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Build & Durability(1) | ||
Warranty Length (years) | 1 years | Lifetime years |
Power & Compliance(2) | ||
Power Source | Corded Electric | None |
Certifications | NSF/ANSI 42, 44 | NSF/ANSI 42, 61, 372 |
Performance & Capacity(5) | ||
Grain Capacity (grains) | 31000 grains | 75 grains |
Service Flow Rate (GPM) | 11.8 GPM | 15 GPM |
Resin Volume (gallons) | Hybrid Media gallons | N/A gallons |
Recommended Household Size (persons) | N/A persons | 6 persons |
Operating Pressure (PSI) | 20-125 PSI | 25-120 PSI |
System & Control(4) | ||
Regeneration Control Type | Metered | None |
System Type | Hybrid | Salt-Free Filter |
Salt Requirement | High Efficiency | None |
Display Type | Digital | None |
Physical & Installation(4) | ||
Height (inches) | 52 inches | 29.0 inches |
Width (inches) | 21 inches | 9.0 inches |
Depth (inches) | 22.5 inches | 25.0 inches |
Installation Type | DIY | Built-in |
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.
Professional reviewers acknowledge the E-3000's strong contaminant reduction capabilities and ease of installation for DIY users. However, experts explicitly clarify that the system is not a true water softener because it conditions water rather than removing hardness minerals. While limescale still forms, reviewers note that it is significantly easier to clean and lacks the abrasive quality of untreated hard water deposits.
Consumer sentiment is generally positive, reflected in a 4.5-star rating and active engagement in Q&A sections. Users appreciate the convenience of a system that requires no salt or electricity, along with the ease of installation. Common praise includes noticeable improvements in water taste and feel, while recurring concerns focus on the persistence of limescale and the lack of the slippery sensation associated with traditional softeners.
