1 Piece vs 2 Piece Water Softeners [Which Is Better For Your Home?]

Water softeners are an important appliance to have in homes with hard water. Hard water contains high levels of calcium, magnesium and other minerals that can leave scales on fixtures and appliances, reduce soap’s effectiveness and leave skin and hair feeling sticky or dry.

Water softeners work by removing the minerals that cause these issues through a process called ion exchange. As hard water passes through the softener, the minerals are exchanged with sodium ions, transforming the hard water into soft water.

When shopping for a water softener, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to get a 1 piece or 2 piece model. Both have their pros and cons to consider.

Here is an in-depth comparison table for 1 Piece vs 2 Piece Water Softeners:

What Are 1 Piece and 2 Piece Water Softeners?

As the names suggest, the main difference between 1 and 2 piece water softeners is the number of components:

1 piece water softeners have the brine tank and resin mineral tank combined into a single unit. Everything is housed in one cabinet-style body.

2 piece softeners separate the brine tank from the resin tank. The brine tank stores and dispenses the salt solution for recharging the resin beads. The resin tank contains the ion exchange resin beads that remove hardness minerals. The two components are connected by a brine line.

The Pros and Cons of 1 Piece Water Softeners

Benefits of 1 piece softeners:

• More compact size: With everything in one cabinet, 1 piece models take up less floor space. This makes them a better fit for smaller homes or where space is limited.
• Easier installation: Having a single integrated unit means 1 piece softeners usually have simpler DIY installation. The brine tank doesn’t need a separate connection.
• Neater appearance: Some homeowners find the all-in-one cabinetry with hidden brine tank more aesthetically pleasing. The single tank can better blend into the basement or installation area.
• Lower cost: With fewer components and connections, 1 piece softeners tend to be more affordable, especially for basic models. This makes them ideal for buyers on a tight budget.

Downsides of 1 piece softeners:

• Smaller capacity: Having the brine tank inside limits its size. The smaller brine storage capacity means 1 piece softeners may need recharging more often.
• Accessibility: Getting access to the brine tank for maintenance and cleaning can be more difficult with the enclosed design.
• Limited flexibility: All components are fixed together, so you can’t adjust the distance between tanks to fit different spaces.
• Shorter lifespan: Some 1 piece tanks use plastic rather than stainless steel, reducing product longevity.

The Pros and Cons of 2 Piece Water Softeners

Benefits of 2 piece softeners:

• Larger capacity: Separate brine tanks can hold a much larger volume of salt solution, allowing the softener to regenerate less frequently.
• Customizable: With the brine tank detached, you can get different size tanks and adjust distances to best fit your space and water usage needs.
• Easier maintenance: The detached brine tank is simpler to access for inspections, cleaning and refilling with salt.
• Higher efficiency: Large brine tanks improve softening performance and efficiency. You’ll get better water quality with less frequent recharges.
• Longer lifespan: 2 piece tanks often use more durable materials like fiberglass and stainless steel. This improves longevity over cheaper plastic models.

Downsides of 2 piece softeners:

• Larger footprint: The extra brine tank takes up more floor area, making 2 piece units impractical for smaller spaces.
• Complex installation: Having a separate brine tank connected by a line makes DIY installation more difficult. Professional help may be needed.
• Higher upfront cost: With the additional brine tank and connections, 2 piece softeners have a higher initial purchase price.
• Messier refills: Refilling a detached brine tank can spill salt on the floor. 1 piece tanks avoid this with internal integrated tanks.

Key Considerations When Choosing 1 or 2 Piece

When deciding between 1 and 2 piece water softeners, keep these factors in mind:

• Available space – 1 piece models are more compact. 2 piece allow flexible tank spacing.
• Water usage – 2 piece are better for homes with high water demand. 1 piece suits lighter usage.
• Maintenance – 2 piece make brine tank access easier. 1 piece conceal the tank.
• Budget – 1 piece softeners are simpler with lower upfront cost. 2 piece offer better performance and longevity.
• Efficiency – 2 piece have larger brine storage for less frequent regeneration.
• Installation – 1 piece have simpler DIY installation. 2 piece often require professional help.

Also consider your household size, decor preferences, expected lifespan and any local codes that may dictate your choices. Your water treatment professional can also provide recommendations based on your specific needs.

With some careful consideration of these factors, you can determine whether a 1 piece or 2 piece water softener is the best choice to provide conditioned water for your home.

How Do 1 Piece and 2 Piece Water Softeners Work?

While 1 and 2 piece softeners have different configurations, they use the same ion exchange process to remove hardness minerals and soften water. Here’s an overview:

1. Hard water enters the resin tank

Untreated hard water flows into the resin mineral tank and passes through a bed of small resin beads. These beads are covered with sodium ions.

2. Ion exchange occurs

As the hard water travels through the resin beads, the calcium and magnesium ions in the hard water are exchanged with sodium ions from the resin. The hardness minerals remain trapped on the beads.

3. Softened water flows out

The water flowing out of the resin tank is now soft, as the hard minerals have been removed. The soft water is then piped throughout the home.

4. Regeneration occurs

Over time, the resin beads become saturated with calcium and magnesium, reducing their softening capacity. Regeneration cleans and recharges the beads with sodium from the brine solution.

5. Brine tank refills

In a 2 piece softener, the brine tank automatically refills with water and salt after regeneration to replenish the brine solution. 1 piece models have fixed internal brine storage.

So in both 1 and 2 piece softeners, the ion exchange process itself is the same. The main difference is the configuration of the brine storage tank.

Maintenance Tips for 1 and 2 Piece Softeners

Proper maintenance is important for a water softener to keep operating at peak efficiency. Here are some maintenance tips:

• Check salt levels: Make sure salt levels in the brine tank never fall below 1/3 full. Replenish salt whenever low.
• Inspect resin tank: Periodically inspect the resin tank for any debris or buildup of resin fines (dust) that could impede water flow.
• Clean brine tank: Over time, salt bridges or mushing can occur in the brine tank. Annually inspect and clean the tank walls.
• Flush lines: Flush brine lines and injectors to prevent clogging. Perform monthly on 2 piece units.
• Sanitize system: Sanitize the softener every 6-12 months using chlorine bleach to prevent bacterial growth.
• Test water: Periodically test your softened water to ensure the system is performing properly.
• Replace filters: Replace any pre- or post-filters per the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Following the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance and cleaning will help keep your 1 or 2 piece softener working properly for years.

Signs It’s Time to Repair or Replace Your Water Softener

If your water softener is no longer operating efficiently despite maintenance, it may be time for repairs or replacement. Signs include:

• Reoccurring hard water spots and scale buildup
• Decreased water flow from clogged resin
• Salt bridges forming in brine tank
• Frequent need to recharge as capacity declines
• Noisy operation or leaking fittings
• Rusting tanks or cabinet
• Old outdated technology lacking features
• Parts failures, unavailability or cost of repairs exceed replacement

Repairs like control valve or part replacement can extend useful life. But at around 10-15 years, a full replacement may be better than continually fixing an outdated, inefficient unit. Newer systems are more advanced, efficient, use less salt and have higher softening capacity.

Cost Comparison of 1 Piece vs 2 Piece Water Softeners

When budgeting for a new water softener, expect the following costs:

1 Piece Water Softeners

• Basic models: $200 – $800
• Mid-range models: $800 – $1200
• High-end models: $1200 – $2000

2 Piece Water Softeners

• Basic models: $400 – $1000
• Mid-range models: $1000 – $1500
• High-end models: $1500 – $2500+

Prices vary based on capacity, tank size, materials, features and certifications. Expect to pay $100 – $300 more for installation if not DIYing. Ongoing salt costs are $5 – $30 per month.

While 2 piece softeners have a higher initial investment, their greater efficiency and lower operating costs over the lifespan can make them more economical long-term.

Top Brands of 1 and 2 Piece Water Softeners

Many reputable brands offer quality water softeners in both 1 and 2 piece configurations. Some top brands include:

1 Piece: Fleck, GE, Nuvo, Aquios, Harvey, Pelican, Whirlpool

2 Piece: Fleck, GE, Whirlpool, Culligan, Aquasana, Pelican, Harvey, Nuvo

Additional brands like Kenmore, Ecowater, Pentair, Turbo also offer 1 or 2 piece models. When selecting a brand, look for certifications from NSF, WQA and UL to ensure safety. Checking reviews and water tests can help choose softeners with proven performance.

Key Takeaways on 1 Piece vs. 2 Piece Water Softeners

• 1 piece water softeners integrate brine tank and resin tank into one cabinet for compact size. 2 piece separate the tanks for flexible setup.
• 1 piece models have easier DIY installation but less brine storage capacity. 2 piece allow larger brine tanks but require professional install.
• 1 piece softeners have lower upfront cost but shorter lifespan compared to durable 2 piece models with higher capacity.
• Regular maintenance like checking salt levels, sanitizing and flushing lines is essential for both 1 and 2 piece water softener systems.
• When 1 or 2 piece softener shows declining performance, repairs or replacement may be needed. Newer models often have improved efficiency.

Consider your space, water usage, budget and needs when choosing between 1 or 2 piece water softeners. With regular upkeep, either can effectively soften hard water and prevent scale buildup in the home.

How Do 1 Piece and 2 Piece Water Softeners Work?

While 1 and 2 piece softeners have different configurations, they utilize the same ion exchange process to remove hardness minerals and soften water. Here’s a quick overview:

Hard water enters the resin tank

Untreated hard water flows into the resin mineral tank, which contains small resin beads. These beads have a negative charge and are coated with sodium ions.

Ion exchange occurs

As hard water passes through the resin beads, the calcium and magnesium ions in the hard water are attracted to the negative resin beads. The hardness minerals stick to the beads, exchanging places with sodium ions.

Softened water exits the tank

The water exiting the tank now contains sodium ions instead of hardness ions, transforming it into softened water. The soft water is then piped throughout your home.

The softener regenerates

Over time, the resin beads become saturated with calcium and magnesium, reducing their softening capacity. The softener must go through a regeneration cycle to flush the beads clean and recharge them with sodium.

5. Brine solution enters the tank

During regeneration, a strong brine solution from the brine tank flows back through the resin tank. The brine displaces the hardness minerals accumulated on the resin beads, replacing them with sodium ions again.

6. Regenerated softener resumes service

Once the resin beads are recharged with sodium, the brine is rinsed away, and the softener returns to service. The ion exchange process starts again, providing a continual supply of conditioned soft water.

While the ion exchange process is the same, 1 and 2 piece softeners differ in the configuration of their brine tank and resin tank components. But they both utilize this effective regeneration process to remove hardness minerals and soften water for your home’s needs.

What Size Softener Do You Need?

When choosing any water softener, it’s important to get the right size for your household’s water usage. An undersized softener will struggle to keep up with demand and run out of soft water. An oversized unit is wasteful and unnecessary.

Follow these guidelines for sizing your softener:

• Estimate your home’s peak daily water usage in gallons. Multiply by hardness level and household size.
• Check softener specs for the recommended capacity based on water hardness and daily usage.
• Allow for future increases in water use and household size/demand.
• Softener capacity is measured in “grains.” A grain equals 1 grain of hardness minerals per gallon.
• Get a softener rated at least 20% higher than your peak calculated daily usage. This prevents shortages during high-use periods.
• 2 piece units allow installing oversized brine tanks. This provides flexibility to meet increasing demand.
• Your water treatment dealer can also assess your specific needs and recommend the right softener sizing.

Proper sizing means your softener will keep up with daily water usage, regeneration cycles will restore capacity in time, and you’ll always have soft water available. Oversizing too much can be wasteful, while undersizing causes headaches. Careful calculation optimizes softening at the best value.

Maintenance Tips to Keep Any Softener Running Efficiently

To maximize performance and life of any water softener, regular maintenance is essential. Here are some key maintenance tips:

Add salt as needed: Check the brine tank or salt bridge monthly. Refill with salt pellets whenever it gets below 1/3 full. Use only purified salt pellets specifically for softeners.

Clean the brine tank yearly: Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove any salt residue or dirt collecting at the bottom of the tank. A clean tank operates most efficiently.

Change filters per manufacturer: Softener filters protect the resin bed from sediment and improve water quality. Replace filters based on the timelines advised.

Sanitize resin tank: Use household bleach or specialty tank cleaners to sanitize the resin tank and kill any bacteria built up inside. Perform every 6-12 months.

Check settings and adjustments: Make sure settings like salt dosage, hardness levels and regeneration schedules are correctly programmed for optimal softener operation.

Watch for leaks: Fix any leaks in the brine line, fittings or tanks right away to prevent scale buildup or water damage. Keep connections tight.

Flush feed lines: Occasionally run water through the softener to flush out any accumulated sediment in the feed lines to maintain flow.

Following the manufacturer’s advice combined with these maintenance best practices will keep any 1 piece or 2 piece softener running at peak efficiency for years of reliable service life.

Top Brands of 1 Piece and 2 Piece Water Softeners

With so many options on the market, choosing a recognizable brand with a proven reputation for quality and reliability is wise. Here are some of the top brands to consider:

Fleck – A trusted brand among water treatment professionals, Fleck is known for durable, efficient valve technology and robust tanks built to last decades. They offer both 1 piece and 2 piece softener models.

Kenmore – Available at Sears, Kenmore water softeners provide a simple all-in-one option combining value pricing and reliable performance from a well-known appliance maker.

GE – For a wide range of innovative water filtering and softening solutions backed by superb customer service, GE is a consumer favorite.

Culligan – Providing water treatment products for over 80 years, Culligan has a sterling reputation and provides some of the best water softeners on the market.

Whirlpool – A globally recognized home appliance brand, Whirlpool offers competitively priced water softeners with advanced features ideal for most households.

Aquios – Aquios focuses specifically on salt-free softening alternatives. Their systems use technology that alters the physical properties of hard water minerals.

Pelican – Providing premium salt-based and salt-free softeners, Pelican builds systems tough enough even for commercial and industrial uses.

Nuvo – Using food-grade Polyphosphate as an alternative water softener, Nuvo is an eco-friendly brand that avoids adding sodium to water.

Sticking with an established brand provides added confidence in getting a properly designed softener that will provide reliable service for years to come. Do some research to find the best brand matching your particular needs and budget.

Installation and Setup Process

Installing and setting up your new water softener properly is key to ensuring optimal performance. Here is an overview of the basic installation process:

Select installation location – Pick a spot with easy water line access, power outlet nearby, adequate drainage and clearance for servicing. Garage, basement or utility room are common choices.

Shut off water supply – Turn off main water valve and open faucets to depressurize lines. Turn off power if needed.

cut pipe for softener – Cut the main water pipe where you want to install the softener. Leave enough space on each side for fittings.

Install inlet and outlet fittings – Attach appropriate fittings to connect the cut pipe ends to the softener inlet and outlet. Follow directions.

Position softener – Place softener in position, securing in place. Have any tubing or hose for drain line ready.

Connect brine tank – For 2 piece units, connect the brine tank to softener with brine tubing using plastic fittings.

Connect drain line – Run drain hose from softener regenerant outlet to floor drain, laundry sink or condensate pump.

Make final water connections – Connect inlet and outlet fittings to the installed softener using flex lines. Keep lines straight to avoid kinks.

Power up softener – Restore power and turn water back on slowly. Allow softener to pressurize while checking for leaks.

Program settings – Initialize the softener control head. Adjust settings like hardness level, recharge schedule and salt dose to optimize for your water.

Add salt and sanitizer – Fill brine tank with salt pellets. Add sanitizer like bleach to disinfect system.

Flush lines – Once powered up, open valves and faucets to flush air and sediment until water runs clear.

Following manufacturer instructions for size-specific steps will ensure your softener is properly installed and set up for smooth operation. Consider professional install for 2 piece units.

FAQs 

Is a 1 piece or 2 piece softener better?

There is no definitively “better” option. 1 piece units are more compact and affordable, while 2 piece allow larger capacity and easier maintenance. Choose based on your space, budget and needs.

Do I need professional installation?

1 piece softeners can typically be DIY installed. But 2 piece units are more complex, so professional install is advisable unless you have plumbing experience.

How often do softeners need maintenance?

Check and refill salt monthly. Deep clean the brine tank yearly. Sanitize the resin every 6-12 months. Replace filters per manufacturer.

What is the lifespan of most water softeners?

With proper maintenance, most last 10-15 years. But high-end units with fiberglass or stainless steel tanks can last 20+ years.

Where should a water softener drain line go?

A: Ideally to a laundry sink, floor drain, or condensate pump. Avoid sending down a septic line. Follow local codes.

Can I turn off my water softener at times?

Yes, you can bypass the softener if desired. But it’s best to just let it run continually to maintain optimal performance.

Will a water softener reduce water pressure?

A: A correctly sized, well-maintained softener will typically have minimal impact on water pressure in most homes.

Conclusion

When making the choice between 1 piece and 2 piece water softeners, carefully evaluate your home’s water usage needs, available space, budget, and maintenance preferences. 1 piece models provide simpler maintenance and installation at a lower price point, while 2 piece systems offer larger capacity, flexibility, and potentially longer lifespan. Whichever style you choose, proper sizing and regular maintenance is key to getting the best performance from your softener. Investing in a quality softener from a reputable brand will provide years of scale-free water for all your household needs.