| Feature | Culligan Gold | Fleck 5600SXT | Rheem Preferred | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | $$$ ($1,500+) | $$ ($700) | $ ($550) | | Repairability | Dealer-only | User-friendly (DIY) | Medium | | Lifespan | 15-20 years | 10-15 years | 5-8 years | | Control Type | Mechanical | Digital (programmable) | Digital |
Unlike the digital softeners you buy at big-box stores, the Gold Series is a system. In plain English: It doesn’t regenerate on a timer. It uses a mechanical water meter to measure your actual usage and only cleans itself when necessary. culligan gold series water softener
I have spent the last 60 days testing this unit in a 4-person household with notoriously hard water (22 grains per gallon). Here is my honest, hands-on review of the Culligan Gold Series Water Softener. | Feature | Culligan Gold | Fleck 5600SXT
Culligan uses proprietary parts. You cannot buy repair parts online or at Lowes. You must go through your local Culligan dealer. This means you cannot shop around for repair pricing. If your local dealer has poor reviews, do not buy this unit. I have spent the last 60 days testing
Is the Culligan Gold Series Water Softener Worth It? A Complete Homeowner’s Review
A: Approximately every 900 to 1,200 gallons of water used, but this depends on your hardness setting and family size.
But does the "Gold" live up to its name, or are you just paying for brand recognition?