Water Softener Sizing Chart

Water Softener Calculator

Enter the water hardness in grains per gallon (gpg). If you're not sure, you can get this information from your local water municipality.

Understanding the Water Softener Sizing Chart

Factors to Consider Water softener Sizing Chart:

  1. Water Hardness:

    • Measured in grains per gallon (gpg) or milligrams per liter (mg/L).
    • You can get this information from a water test or your local water municipality.

  2. Daily Water Usage:

    • Average per person usage is often estimated at 75-100 gallons per day in the United States.
    • Multiply per person usage by the number of people in the household.

  3. Regeneration Frequency:

    • How often the system needs to regenerate (clean itself) to continue providing soft water.
    • More frequent regenerations may mean a smaller unit could suffice, but it will work harder.

Basic Calculation:

Daily Softening Requirement=(Water Hardness×Daily Water Usage)

Using the Sizing Chart:

  • Columns: Typically, you’ll find columns labeled with various water hardness levels (e.g., 5 gpg, 10 gpg, 20 gpg, etc.).

  • Rows: Rows might be labeled with daily water usage in gallons (e.g., 200, 300, 400 gallons, etc.) or the number of people in the household.

  • Cells: Where a column and row intersect, you’ll find the recommended size of the water softener, usually indicated in cubic feet of resin or grain capacity (e.g., 30,000 grains, 40,000 grains, etc.).

Steps to Use the Chart:

  1. Determine Your Water Hardness:

    • Use a water test kit or get information from your local water provider.

  2. Calculate Daily Water Usage:

    • Multiply the average daily water usage per person by the number of people in your household.

  3. Find Your Coordinates on the Chart:

    • Locate your water hardness level on the chart’s column.
    • Find your daily water usage or household size on the chart’s row.

  4. Identify the Recommended Size:

    • Find the cell where your column and row intersect.
    • This cell should indicate the recommended water softener size for your needs.

Additional Tips:

  • Choose a Slightly Larger Size: It’s often recommended to choose a softener slightly larger than your calculated need to ensure efficiency and longevity.

  • Consider Peak Usage: Ensure the system can handle peak usage times without compromising on water quality.

  • Professional Consultation: It’s always a good idea to consult with a water treatment professional to confirm your calculations and choices.

Remember that the exact layout and information provided in a water softener sizing chart can vary between manufacturers and models, so always refer to the specific chart provided by the manufacturer or consult with a professional for accurate sizing.

Number of people in the house
Hardness in Grains Per Gallon 1 to 2 people* 3 to 4 people* 5 to 6 people* 7 to 8 people*
0-10 GPG 16,000 Grain 24,000 Grain 32,000 Grain 40,000 Grain
11-20 GPG 24,000 Grain 32,000 Grain 40,000 Grain 48,000 Grain
21-30 GPG 32,000 Grain 40,000 Grain 48,000 Grain 64,000 Grain
31-40 GPG 40,000 Grain 48,000 Grain 64,000 Grain 80,000 Grain
41-50 GPG 64,000 Grain 80,000 Grain 96,000 Grain 110,000 Grain
51-75 GPG 64,000 Grain 80,000 Grain 110,000 Grain 110,000 Grain
76-100 GPG 80,000 Grain 96,000 Grain 110,000 Grain

110,000 Grain
Water Hardness Scale
Grains/Gal mg/L or PPM Classification
Less than 1 Less than 17.1 Soft
1-3.5 17.1-60 Slightly Hard
3.5-7 60-120 Moderate Hard
7-10 120-180 Hard
Over 10 Over 180 Very Hard
1 gpg = 17.1 mg/L = 17.1 ppm

Understanding Water Softener Sizing

Water softener sizing is crucial for ensuring that your system effectively treats hard water. To determine the appropriate size, you need to consider the water hardness level in your area and your household's daily water usage. A properly sized water softener will efficiently remove minerals like calcium and magnesium, which cause hardness. If the system is too small, it won't be effective, but if it's too large, it can lead to unnecessary costs and maintenance issues.

Factors Influencing Sizing

Several factors influence water softener sizing, including the number of people in your household, daily water consumption, and how hard the water is. Generally, a family of four will require a system capable of handling about 10-12 grains of hardness per gallon of water. However, it's essential to test your water to get precise measurements. A larger family or higher water usage will require a more robust system. Therefore, calculating these parameters accurately can save you energy and money.

Choosing the Right System

After you've assessed your needs, choosing the right water softener becomes easier. There are various types available, such as ion exchange systems and salt-free models. Each type has its benefits, depending on your specific circumstances. For instance, ion exchange systems are typically more effective at removing hardness but require regular salt replacements. On the other hand, salt-free systems can condition water without the need for salt but might not be as effective in severe hardness cases. Comparing their pros and cons is essential for making an informed decision.


What is a Water Softener Sizing Chart?

A Water Softener Sizing Chart is essential for homeowners looking to select the right water softening system. It helps you determine the appropriate capacity of the unit based on your household size and water hardness levels. Understanding the chart is crucial because it ensures you choose a water softener that effectively meets your needs. Therefore, using this chart can save you money and improve your water quality.

How to Use the Water Softener Sizing Chart?

To use the Water Softener Sizing Chart, start by assessing your household's daily water usage. This usually involves calculating the total gallons of water consumed daily which can vary based on the number of people in your home. Then, check your water test results for hardness levels. By plugging these values into the chart, you can determine the right size of the water softener you need. If you are uncertain, consulting a professional can guide you through this process.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Water Softener

When choosing a water softener, several factors should be considered alongside the Water Softener Sizing Chart. Water hardness, the number of faucets, and the appliances using water are critical. It is also important to consider the flow rate and regeneration time. All these factors can impact how effectively the water softener will work in your home. Because of this, analyzing your needs carefully will help optimize your water softener's performance.


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