Kenmore Elite 520
Score: 82/100
PRO+AQUA Elite
Score: 82/100Rankings
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 PRO+AQUA Elite 5-Stage Whole House Water Softener and Filter Bundle is a comprehensive, commercial-grade water treatment system designed for households with 3-4 bathrooms, particularly those relying on well water. It integrates a 3-stage filtration system, a well water iron/odor filtration system, and an 80,000-grain salt-based softener to address sediment, heavy metals, iron, sulfur, and hardness minerals simultaneously. Best suited for rural homeowners with private wells experiencing iron, sulfur, or sediment contamination.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
31,000 grains | 80,000 grainsbest | |
11.8 GPM | 20 GPMbest | |
— | 5 personsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 52 inchesbest | 62 inches |
| ↓ lower better | 21 inches | 16 inchesbest |
| ↓ lower better | 22.5 inches | 16 inchesbest |
1 years | 5 yearsbest | |
20 PSIbest | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Build & Durability(1) | ||
Warranty Length (years) | 1 years | 5 years |
Power & Compliance(2) | ||
Power Source | Corded Electric | Electricity |
Certifications | NSF/ANSI 42, 44 | N/A |
Performance & Capacity(5) | ||
Grain Capacity (grains) | 31000 grains | 80000 grains |
Service Flow Rate (GPM) | 11.8 GPM | 20 GPM |
Resin Volume (gallons) | Hybrid Media gallons | N/A gallons |
Recommended Household Size (persons) | N/A persons | 5 persons |
Operating Pressure (PSI) | 20-125 PSI | N/A PSI |
System & Control(3) | ||
Regeneration Control Type | Metered | Automatic |
System Type | Hybrid | Ion Exchange Bundle |
Salt Requirement | High Efficiency | Salt Required |
Physical & Installation(5) | ||
Height (inches) | 52 inches | 62.0 inches |
Width (inches) | 21 inches | 16.0 inches |
Depth (inches) | 22.5 inches | 16.0 inches |
Installation Type | DIY | Whole House |
Weight (lbs) | N/A lbs | 322 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.
Professional reviewers position the PRO+AQUA Elite Bundle as an essential, purpose-built solution for well water treatment in medium-sized households. They praise its commercial-grade durability, effective removal of well-specific contaminants like iron and sulfur, and the convenience of its automated digital control valve. However, experts note that its inability to reduce TDS or remove bacteria, along with its high complexity and space requirements, make it a specialized choice rather than a universal solution.
Users generally report high satisfaction with the system's performance on well water, particularly noting the elimination of bad odors and taste caused by iron and sulfur. The automatic regeneration and long filter life are frequently cited as major convenience benefits. Recurring complaints focus on logistical challenges, including the difficulty of DIY installation, the large physical footprint, and the ongoing costs associated with salt replenishment and expensive filter replacements.
