Edina Water Light refers to specific models of twin-tank alternating water softeners designed for efficiency and continuous soft water supply. Assessing its worth for home use depends on specific needs and circumstances.
Key Features & Technology
The Edina Water Light utilizes a patented twin alternating tank system. While one tank softens water, the other regenerates using very low salt consumption, allowing for a compact brine tank design. Key features include:
- Non-Electric Operation: Leverages water pressure and hydraulic valves, reducing electrical costs.
- Continuous Soft Water: The twin-tank design eliminates downtime during regeneration.
- Low Salt & Water Usage: Patented technology claims significant reductions in salt (approx. 50-70%) and water (approx. 60%) compared to conventional softeners.
- Compact Design: Smaller footprint than many traditional softeners, beneficial for tight spaces.
Potential Benefits for Homeowners
- Scale Prevention: Effectively removes hardness minerals (Calcium & Magnesium), protecting plumbing, appliances, and improving soap efficiency.
- Energy Savings: Non-electric operation cuts electricity use; softened water improves heater efficiency.
- Convenience: Continuous soft water supply without interruptions.
- Reduced Maintenance: Smaller brine tank means less frequent salt top-ups and lower ongoing salt cost.
Important Considerations
- Initial Investment: Edina Water Light softeners typically command a higher upfront cost than basic single-tank electric models.
- Salt Requirement: While salt usage is lower, it still requires salt (potassium chloride alternative also available). Salt-free systems exist but don't truly "soften" by removing ions.
- Water Pressure Reliance: Operation depends on sufficient household water pressure.
- Installation Complexity: Professional installation is highly recommended, adding to initial cost.
- Space: While compact overall, two resin tanks still require significant under-sink or garage space.
Is the Edina Water Light Worth Buying?
It can be a worthwhile investment for homeowners prioritizing:
- Continuous soft water without regeneration interruptions.
- Minimizing ongoing salt consumption and cost.
- Reducing water waste during regeneration.
- Eliminating electrical operating costs.
- Accepting a higher initial purchase price for long-term efficiency gains.
It may be less ideal for those:
- With strict budget constraints preferring the lowest upfront cost.
- Seeking entirely salt-free operation (though these are conditioners, not softeners).
- Insufficient water pressure for reliable hydraulic operation.
- With extremely limited installation space.
Conclusion
The Edina Water Light presents a technologically advanced solution offering genuine benefits in salt/water savings, zero electricity use, and uninterrupted supply. For households plagued by moderate to severe hard water issues willing to invest upfront for superior efficiency and convenience, it represents a compelling and often worthwhile option. Carefully weigh the higher initial cost against the projected long-term savings in salt, water, and electricity for your specific water usage and needs.
