Whole House Backwash Filter Softener Review
The WECO Whole House Backwash Filter/Softener with EcoMix Advanced Softener Media is designed to change how you handle hard water issues. This system combines advanced water softening technology with a powerful sediment filter. It targets hardness, iron, manganese, and tannins—common culprits that cause stains and scale in your plumbing. If your water leaves orange spots, clogs shower heads, or stains your appliances, this unit is built to fix all those problems for your entire home.
WECO Whole House Backwash Filter/Softener with EcoMix Media
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Key Takeaways
- Uses EcoMix advanced softening media to reduce hardness, iron, manganese, and tannins effectively.
- Includes a Big Blue sediment pre-filter that removes particles down to 5 microns.
- Features automatic backwash and rinse cycles for maintenance-free operation.
- Not ideal for those who prefer simple plug-and-play units, as installation requires plumbing knowledge.
- Large size requires dedicated installation space and careful planning.
Why You Might Need a Whole House Backwash Filter Softener
If you have hard water, you might notice mineral buildup on faucets and shower doors, red or orange stains on porcelain surfaces, or clogged shower heads and appliances. These problems lower your home’s water quality and make daily chores a hassle. You want water that feels smoother, looks cleaner, and protects your plumbing. This WECO system tackles all those issues comprehensively, so you can enjoy better water for cleaning, cooking, and bathing.
First Impressions: What to Expect
When your WECO Whole House Filter/Softener arrives, you’ll find a well-packed, sizable unit built for permanent installation. It’s much bigger than faucet-mounted filters but fits standard plumbing lines. Inside, expect durable components designed to handle heavy-duty filtering and softening.
You’ll get the main filter/softener tank, a Big Blue sediment pre-filter, and control components with a sleek touchpad display. Setup instructions are straightforward but may require professional help if you aren’t comfortable with plumbing work.
The packaging includes all essential parts for installation except optional items like a stainless steel tank jacket, which can be purchased separately for an upgraded look and added durability.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 16" x 65" |
| Grain Capacity | 46,000 grains |
| Filter Type | Backwash filter + EcoMix softening media |
| Pre-Filter | Big Blue sediment, 5 microns |
| Removes | Hardness, iron, manganese, tannins |
| Control | Easy-to-use touchpad |
| Maintenance | Automatic backwash and rinse |
| Installation | Whole house, residential & commercial |
| Assembly Location | Made in the U.S.A. |
Touchpad Controls for Easy Operation
Design & Build Quality
This filter/softener features a sturdy resin tank with a large capacity to handle the needs of most homes or small commercial setups. The EcoMix media inside is proprietary and designed to work better than generic softening media. The Big Blue sediment pre-filter handles grit and particles before they reach the softening media, extending the system’s life.
The unit comes with an intuitive touchpad control panel, making programming easy. You can set regeneration cycles and backwash intervals to suit your water usage and quality. Many users have noted the build quality is solid, with one review saying, "The system feels heavy-duty and well-made, not cheap plastic. The touchpad is responsive, and installation was easier with good instructions."
Another appreciated feature is the optional stainless steel jacket for the resin tank. It adds durability and an attractive finish, which is nice for visible installation spots.
This system is made in the U.S.A., which adds confidence in quality and service support. Overall, the WECO Whole House Backwash Filter/Softener looks built for long-term reliability rather than short-term fixes.
Real-World Performance
In everyday use, this system makes a noticeable difference. For one homeowner, installing the WECO filter meant saying goodbye to orange stains and hard water spots. The shower heads stopped clogging, and taps stayed cleaner longer.
Highly effective at reducing iron and manganese, this unit protects your pipes and fixtures from mineral damage that can cause costly repairs later. Users report easier cleaning routines, less scrubbing needed, and water that feels silky on skin. The system also safeguards sensitive appliances like coffee makers and ice machines from rust buildup.
The Big Blue sediment pre-filter efficiently clears out finer particles down to 5 microns. This pre-cleaning step saves the softening media from premature fouling, reducing overall maintenance.
Automatic backwash cycles keep the media refreshed without manual effort. You only need to add softener salt regularly, making it quite user-friendly once set up.
Smooth Operation with Automatic Backwash Function
What Makes It Stand Out?
Compared to other whole house softeners, the WECO system’s EcoMix media is what sets it apart. While many softeners use traditional resin beads, EcoMix is a proprietary blend designed specifically to reduce not only hardness but also iron, manganese, and tannins. That makes it a superior choice for problem water sources.
The Big Blue sediment pre-filter, a feature not always standard on similar products, captures fine debris before it reaches the softening media. This two-stage approach improves overall water cleanliness and extends system life.
Two competing brands, such as Fleck and Aquasana, offer whole house softeners with sediment filters but often rely on generic resin or carbon filter combos. These tend to address hardness or sediment separately, not simultaneously.
WECO’s built-in automatic backwash with touchpad programming is also a plus. It means less manual effort and better control over your water treatment cycles. In contrast, some other brands require manual regeneration or lack easy-to-use controls.
While the size is larger than some compact models, it’s a trade-off for thorough, whole-home filtration. For homes dealing with multiple water issues, this system offers a single, effective solution that integrates easy maintenance with powerful treatment.
Strengths vs. Trade-Offs
| Strengths | Trade-Offs |
|---|---|
| ✅ EcoMix advanced media for multiple contaminants | ❌ Installation requires plumbing skills |
| ✅ Big Blue sediment pre-filter down to 5 microns | ❌ Larger footprint needs space |
| ✅ Automatic backwash and softener recharge | ❌ Not plug-and-play; setup can be complex |
| ✅ Touchpad controls for easy programming | ❌ Regular salt addition needed |
| ✅ Made in the U.S.A. for quality assurance |
EcoMix Media & Sediment Pre-Filter Combo
Who Is It For?
This system is perfect for homeowners facing multiple water quality issues. If your water has high hardness levels and iron or manganese staining, this unit can tackle all simultaneously. Families wanting cleaner dishes, brighter glassware, and fewer mineral deposits in showers will appreciate the convenience.
It is also suitable for small commercial or light industrial setups where water quality impacts equipment lifetime, like coffee shops, ice producers, or small factories. Just note it requires a dedicated installation spot and basic plumbing capability.
People who want hands-off operation benefit from its automatic backwash feature. But those seeking simple, plug-in filters might find this system complex.
Expert Advice to Maximize Results
To get the most from your WECO whole house filter and softener, schedule installation close to the main water line’s entry point. This placement ensures all water entering your home receives treatment.
Regularly check the salt level in the softener tank and refill as needed to maintain performance. Use high-quality softener salt recommended by the manufacturer.
Adjust the touchpad settings based on your household size and local water hardness. Many users find that tailoring regeneration cycles improves efficiency and saves on maintenance.
If you notice any drop in water flow, inspect the Big Blue sediment pre-filter and clean or replace it. This step protects the EcoMix media and keeps water pressure steady.
Finally, pairing this system with periodic water testing helps you track effectiveness and ensures your filter continues to handle iron, manganese, and tannins well.
Tips for Maintaining Your Filter/Softener
FAQ
Q: How often does the system backwash?
A: The system automatically backwashes and rinses the media based on your programmed schedule or water usage levels, typically every few days to a week.
Q: Can it handle very high iron content?
A: Yes, the EcoMix media is formulated to reduce iron, manganese, and tannins effectively, protecting plumbing from staining and clogging.
Q: Is the installation DIY-friendly?
A: Due to its size and plumbing connections, professional installation is recommended unless you have plumbing experience.
Q: What maintenance is required?
A: You need to refill softener salt regularly and monitor the sediment pre-filter to clean or replace it as needed.
Q: Does it remove chlorine or other chemicals?
A: This system focuses on hardness, iron, manganese, and tannins. For chlorine or chemical removal, a separate carbon filter system is recommended.
Q: Will it reduce water pressure?
A: Properly installed and maintained, it should not cause noticeable water pressure loss.
Q: Is it suitable for commercial use?
A: Yes, it’s designed for both residential and light commercial/industrial applications.
Verdict
The WECO Whole House Backwash Filter/Softener with EcoMix media offers a powerful solution for homes battling hard water, iron staining, and related mineral problems. Its thoughtful design combines advanced softening media with sediment filtration and automation, making it ideal for keeping your entire home’s water clean and soft. While installation needs care and space, the long-term payoff is fresher, smoother water without the usual hassles of mineral buildup or staining.
