Fleck 5600SXT Review: Is This the Ultimate Water Softener?

If you’ve been hunting for a reliable, budget-friendly water softener for your home, the name “Fleck 5600SXT” has likely popped up more than once. It’s one of the most talked-about models among DIY homeowners and plumbing professionals alike. But does it live up to all the buzz? Is it truly the ultimate water softener? In this deep-dive review, we’re breaking it all down — what the Fleck 5600SXT does well, where it might fall short, and whether it deserves a spot in your home.

Let’s take a closer look and unpack everything about this system in a plainspoken, no-fluff kind of way.

Overview of the Fleck 5600SXT Water Softener

The Fleck 5600SXT is a salt-based water softener system that’s built around a digital metered control valve. It’s designed to treat hard water by removing calcium and magnesium — the two minerals most responsible for scale buildup in plumbing, appliances, and fixtures. What sets the 5600SXT apart is its combination of tried-and-true functionality with user-friendly digital controls.

Here’s what makes this model stand out:

• Uses ion exchange to remove hard minerals from water
• Digital metered valve helps optimize regeneration cycles based on water usage
• Backed by a long-standing reputation for durability
• Designed for easy DIY installation, with plenty of support online
• Capable of handling the water demands of a medium-to-large household

It’s basically the middle ground between professional-grade systems and entry-level softeners — with a price that won’t make you wince.

Key Features and System Specs of the Fleck 5600SXT

To get a better sense of what you’re dealing with, here’s a breakdown of the main specs and features of the Fleck 5600SXT:

This unit isn’t loaded with fancy features you’ll never use. Instead, it focuses on doing the core job — softening water — really well.

Benefits That Set the Fleck 5600SXT Apart

When homeowners rave about this model, they usually talk about a handful of key benefits. And they’re not wrong — the 5600SXT brings a lot of value to the table.

• Proven Performance
  This unit has been around for a while, and its solid reputation is based on real-world results. It’s reliable, efficient, and designed for the long haul.
• Digital Control with Smart Regeneration
  The metered valve is where the “SXT” part comes in. Instead of regenerating on a timer (which can waste salt and water), it only regenerates when needed, based on your actual usage.
• Low Maintenance
  Aside from adding salt and doing the occasional resin bed cleaning, there’s not much else you need to do. It just works.
• Installation-Friendly
  Whether you’re replacing an old softener or installing a system for the first time, the 5600SXT is pretty straightforward. Most setups can be completed with basic plumbing knowledge and common tools.
• Durability and Support
  The control valve is known for lasting years without issue, and if you ever need parts or guidance, there’s a strong aftermarket community to lean on.
• Good Value for the Price
  You’re not just buying a name or sleek marketing. The cost of this unit generally reflects its parts, performance, and lifespan.

That said, no system is perfect — so let’s get into the drawbacks.

Things to Consider Before Buying the Fleck 5600SXT

Even though the Fleck 5600SXT is a popular choice, it may not be the best fit for everyone. Depending on your home’s setup and water needs, here are a few things you’ll want to think through.

• Bulky Design
  The unit includes both a resin tank and a brine tank, which means it needs a fair amount of space. If your utility room or garage is tight, this could be an issue.
• Salt-Based System
  Since it uses salt and the ion-exchange process, you’ll need to periodically refill the brine tank. It’s not ideal for folks looking for a salt-free or low-sodium water solution.
• Requires Regular Salt Refills
  While maintenance is relatively light, you do need to keep an eye on the salt levels. For busy households, this could be one more chore to keep track of.
• Installation May Involve a Learning Curve
  DIY installation is doable, but not necessarily easy for everyone. If you’re not comfortable cutting into water lines, you might want to budget for professional help.
• No Integrated Filtration
  It softens water but doesn’t filter it. If you’re concerned about chlorine, sediment, or contaminants, you’ll need a separate filtration system.

Bottom line: It does its core job really well, but don’t expect it to solve every water issue in one unit.

FAQs About the Fleck 5600SXT

What size Fleck 5600SXT do I need for my home?
That depends on your household size and water hardness level. For a typical family of four with moderately hard water, a 48,000-grain unit is usually more than enough. Larger families or higher hardness levels may benefit from the 64,000-grain version.

Does the 5600SXT remove iron from water?
Not really. It’s designed to soften water by removing calcium and magnesium. If you have high iron levels, you’ll need a dedicated iron filter in addition to this softener.

Is the Fleck 5600SXT noisy during regeneration?
It does make some noise, but it’s not obnoxiously loud. If it’s installed in a garage or basement, you likely won’t notice it. For indoor installs near living spaces, it’s worth testing the noise level.

Can I install the Fleck 5600SXT myself?
Yes, if you’re handy with plumbing tools and follow instructions closely. But if you’ve never tackled a plumbing project before, hiring a pro can save time and headaches.

What kind of salt should I use in the brine tank?
Most people use either pellet or crystal-style sodium chloride. Solar salt or potassium chloride can also be used, but they may require more frequent cleaning.

Does it come preloaded with resin?
Some sellers ship the tank preloaded, while others send the resin separately to prevent damage during shipping. Be sure to double-check before ordering so you’re prepared.

How long does the system last?
With proper maintenance, the resin can last around 10 years, and the control valve can go well beyond that. The tanks themselves often last even longer.

Conclusion: Is the Fleck 5600SXT the Ultimate Water Softener?

If you’re looking for a no-nonsense, reliable, and effective water softening system — the Fleck 5600SXT is tough to beat. It’s not flashy, and it doesn’t try to do more than it should. But what it does do, it does extremely well. With smart metering, dependable components, and easy DIY potential, this unit continues to win over households that just want soft water without the drama.

It might not be the absolute best for homes with space constraints or those wanting a salt-free option. But for medium to large families dealing with hard water and scale buildup, the Fleck 5600SXT is a workhorse that lives up to the hype.

In the world of water softeners, the Fleck 5600SXT isn’t just a solid option — it’s a standout. Whether you’re upgrading an old system or diving into water softening for the first time, it’s worth serious consideration.