Hard water can lead to a myriad of issues in the home, including reduced appliance efficiency and difficult-to-remove, ugly scale deposits on fixtures and faucets.
One solution that is gaining popularity is the electronic water descaler. These units can prevent hard water issues without removing the healthy magnesium and calcium minerals. They don't have tanks and don't require regeneration or media changes. Instead, they use a wire coil or magnets that are placed around a water pipe.
Installation is simple and most people can install an electronic descaler within 30 minutes. All you need to do is choose the installation location, wrap the cables around your main water supply pipe, and install the descaler on a wall behind it. Once it is powered up, it begins working immediately.
Electronic descalers not only work well, but they also have environmental benefits. They don't produce wastewater like reverse osmosis systems and use minimal electricity to function. After installation, there is no maintenance required as long as the unit has a constant source of electricity.
Are electronic water descalers the right hard water solution for your home? Check out the table to find the best electronic water descaler. These units can improve the quality of your water supply.
Top Electronic Water Descalers in 2023
- Stop limescale build up completely
- No set up GPG limit
- Easy to install and requires zero upkeep
- 1-year money back guarantee
- Designed for well and city water
- Helps protect your skin and hair
- Works well with plastic and metal pipes
- Eliminates all limescale deposits
- Works extremely well at 1.8 watts
- Ensures healthy mineral in water
- Works well for hard water level up to 20 GPG
- Gradually remove limescale builds up
- Energy efficient
- Eliminates existing rust and limescale
- Noticeably extend the lifespan of appliances
- Easy to install
- Works well with hard water level up to 25 GPG
- Has 1,680 gallon per hour capacity
- Eliminates existing scale in both cold and hot water systems
- US-made
- Well-balanced descaling action
- Works well with non-magnetic-based pipes
- Install-and-forget design
- Works well with several pipe types
- Affordable
We've compiled a list of the top electronic water descalers, including their pros and cons and essential features and benefits, to help you find the right one.
1. YARNA CWD24 – Best Capacitive Water Descaler System
The YARNA CWD24 is loaded with features that provide exceptional effectiveness. It's suitable for use in compact spaces and offers good value for money.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Technology used | Capacitive |
| Power consumption | 4 watts |
| Max Hardness | No Given |
| Voltage | 120V |
| Warranty | 10-year |
| Maintenance | Not required |
The YARNA CWD24 is an innovative system that uses capacitive technology to treat water hardness. It consists of two copper tapes and a small two-inch electronic component. To use it, wrap the copper tape wires around the main water supply pipe and connect them to the electronic unit. The YARNA CWD24 has a computer microchip for generating and controlling electric impulses through the copper coils, which create a frequency field. As water flows under the two coils, the powerful electrical waves interfere with the mineral molecules, preventing them from sticking together and forming scale. This prevents limescale buildup in appliances and pipework.
The isolated copper impulse bands attach firmly to the pipe and are wide, flat, and have thin insulation to maximize direct contact with pipes. The YARNA CWD24 requires a 120-volt power outlet and consumes 4 watts of energy. It's easy to install and can be used on various types of pipes, including PVC, plastic, steel, copper, and iron. No tools are required and it can be installed with a minimum 10-inch free pipe space and a maximum 2-inch pipe diameter.
Once connected, the YARNA CWD24 requires no maintenance or plumbing work. It's made of quality materials and comes with a 10-year warranty, ensuring it will serve you for over ten years.
2. Eddy ED6002P-US – Best Electronic Water Descaler
The Eddy ED6002P-US is a low-maintenance, eco-friendly electronic water descaler that can alter the chemical hardness of your water. It comes with a lifetime repair or replace warranty and a 12-month money-return promise. It can be easily installed on both plastic and metal pipes up to 1.5 inches in diameter.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Technology used | Electromagnetic |
| Power consumption | 5 watts |
| Max Hardness | 20 GPG |
| Voltage | 120V |
| Warranty | 1-year return, Lifetime repair or replace warranty |
| Maintenance | Minimal |
The Eddy ED6002P-US is a straightforward water descaler system that uses electromagnetic waves to stop limescale formation. It consists of two signal cables and an electronic control box. To use it, wrap the cables around the piping on your home's incoming water supply. The incoming water containing minerals that can cause deposits to pass through the signal coils and is subjected to an alternating electromagnetic field. This field agitates and breaks the bonds of the mineral molecules with the water, preventing them from sticking together and forming scale. It also breaks down and flushes away existing limescale in pipes and fittings.
The Eddy ED6002P-US runs on electricity and requires a 110-volt power outlet to work. However, it only consumes 5 watts. It's compatible with metal and plastic pipes, such as PVC and copper, but shouldn't be used on iron or lead piping because removing the scale can cause lead leaching into your water supply.
The manufacturer provides a lifetime warranty on the replacement and repair of the electronic descaler, as well as an additional 1-year money-back guarantee. This demonstrates the manufacturer's confidence in the durability and quality of the product.
3. iSpring ED2000 – Best Energy Efficient
The iSpring ED2000 is a cost-effective salt-less softener that offers a balance of performance and efficiency. It's a smart choice for those on a budget.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Technology used | Electromagnetic |
| Power consumption | 15 watts |
| Max Hardness | 19 GPG |
| Voltage | Varies internationally |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Maintenance | Not required |
The iSpring ED2000 is a saltless water softening system that prevents limescale buildup in household incoming water pipes without using chemicals or excess water. It features a computerized hardness removal system that generates complex electromagnetic waveforms that are also frequency modulated. It can be used on PEX, PVC, and most other water pipes.
The iSpring ED2000 increases water solubility and dissolves existing scale, but its effectiveness depends on the quality of pipes and faucets, the amount of limescale, and the appliances. It has an overall removal capability of 19 GPG and can protect 50 feet of plumbing from limescale buildup. If you have a larger area, you may need to install another descaler to work in conjunction with the iSpring ED2000.
The iSpring company offers support and the product comes with a lifetime warranty. You can install the descaler yourself, but the company also offers support via telephone and email.
4. HQUA 5000E Electronic Water Descaler – Best Looking
The HQUA 5000E is an electronic water descaler that uses environmentally-friendly technology to neutralize water without using salt or chemicals, making it safe for consumption.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Technology used | Electromagnetic |
| Power consumption | 4 watts |
| Max Hardness | 25 GPG |
| Voltage | 110V |
| Warranty | 1-year limited |
| Maintenance | Not required |
This 5000E model from HQUA features a complex technology system with frequency-regulated electronic waves that descale hard water. It has two cables that wrap around your main water pipe and a primary unit that generates electric fields for transmission via the cables. These waves break down the structure of minerals in the water using the resonance process.
The resonance process helps break down carbonate crystals, causing them to lose their adhesive quality and float freely in water as ions. The ions can't stick on surfaces of fixtures, which helps prevent limescale development and enables smooth water flow. Simultaneously, carbon dioxide from the process continues to dissolve the current scale buildup. However, you might have to wait between one to three months before your pipes and water fittings are clean.
This HQUA 5000E is an energy-saving system that consumes only 4 watts of electricity. It works with a standard 110-volt power supply and will cost about $7 per year to operate.
5. H2oEliteLabs EWC-Max Electronic Water Conditioner – Best Design
The H2oEliteLabs EWC-Max is an affordable device that can protect your plumbing and home appliances for an entire household. It is easy to install, requires no salt, maintenance, or chemicals, and is a chemical-free conditioner.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Technology used | Electromagnetic |
| Power consumption | 20 watts |
| Max Hardness | 35 GPG |
| Voltage | 115V |
| Warranty | 1-year limited |
| Maintenance | Not required |
This H2oEliteLabs EWC-Max electronic water conditioner system is a cost-effective, salt-less unit that ensures water won't harm your clothing or skin. Its minimal and sleek design works well in any space.
The water conditioner has an exceptional design, with illuminated holes for wire insertion and illuminated buttons that show the system's operation status. If there is a power issue or no coil connection, the logo will be solid red. If there is a water leak, the logo will blink red and there will be an audible buzzer sound. There is also an optional water leak detection module that can be installed on the floor where leaks are possible.
You can install the unit on a vertical or horizontal pipe of any type, including PEX, CPVC, PVC, and copper. It's University and Laboratory Tested and Certified and can work with high water levels up to 35 GPG. Installation is easy, even for those with minimal DIY experience, and the system weighs only 2.2 pounds.
6. Scalesweeper Water Descaler – Best Budget Unit
The Scalesweeper water descaler generates an electromagnetic field that controls hard water minerals to prevent buildup without using chemicals or salt. It offers protection against corrosion and scale building-up inside all water pipes.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Technology used | Electromagnetic |
| Power consumption | 50 watts |
| Max Hardness | 25 GPG |
| Voltage | 18.8V |
| Warranty | 10-year |
| Maintenance | Not required |
The Scalesweeper system is long-lasting, hardworking, and cost-effective. It works with hard water levels up to 25 GPG, making it a strong contender. It offers protection for pipes, faucets, and appliances such as water dispensers, boilers, and heaters. The unit descales water entering your property, enhancing the performance and lifespan of all these appliances.
The Scalesweeper has a capacity of 1,680 gallons per hour, suitable for busy and larger households and offices. Always consider the descaler capacity before buying, so it matches your water needs.
We love that you can install this Scalesweeper descaler yourself, without calling in a professional and incurring extra expenses. The supporting customer service and guidance are more than enough if you're experiencing difficulties.
The Scalesweeper descaler weighs only 2.4 pounds. It requires 18.8 volts to work, so it's not power hungry and will not increase your electric bills. Blue lights on the descaler help you understand potential issues and performance.
7. ScaleBlaster SB-75 – Another Affordable Unit
The ScaleBlaster SB-75 is a computerized water conditioning system that helps solve hard water issues without using chemicals or salt. It's suitable for homes up to 4,000 square feet and is affordable.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Technology used | Electromagnetic |
| Power consumption | 15 watts |
| Max Hardness | 19 GPG |
| Voltage | 5V |
| Warranty | Extendable 3-year |
| Maintenance | Not required |
The ScaleBlaster SB-75, manufactured by Clearwater Enviro Technologies, Inc., is a unit that removes scale on bathroom and kitchen fixtures and improves soap lathering while also reducing dryness on skin and hair. It is recommended for homes smaller than 4,000 square feet with moderately hard to very hard water (up to 19 GPG). The unit is compatible with pipe sizes up to 1 1/4 inches in diameter, including non-magnetic pipes such as copper, PEX, and PVC.
Installation involves wrapping the ScaleBlaster SB-75's cable around the outside of the pipe, covering an area of about 6 to 8 inches. If you have galvanized pipes, you can replace the section with a non-magnetic pipe. The ScaleBlaster SB-75 produces a wave that causes calcium molecules to collide and form large crystals that lose their surface adhesiveness. New “empty” water molecules then attract the calcium molecules from current scale deposits.
The ScaleBlaster SB-75 model takes approximately three months to descale pipes, depending on water usage and the extent of scaling. It comes with an extendable 3-year warranty.
8. Calmat 1-6004-000USA – Best for Restoring Water Pressure
The Calmat 1-6004-000USA is included on this list due to its use of the top water descaling technology: capacitive impulse. Though it's a pricier option, its exceptional performance makes it a great choice for large properties and those worried about calcium build-up.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Technology used | Electromagnetic |
| Power consumption | 4.3 watts |
| Max Hardness | 59 GPG |
| Voltage | 4V |
| Warranty | 5-year |
| Maintenance | Not required |
The Calmat 1-6004-000USA system is designed for easy installation and requires no maintenance. It does not use chemicals like salt, but instead crystallizes calcium in hard water to prevent buildup in appliances, pipes, and faucets.
Calmat 1-6004-000USA can be used with any type of pipe material, but is only suitable for indoor use. Weighing only 1.05 pounds, it is one of the lightest models on the market and comes with a 5-year manufacturer warranty.
Calmat 1-6004-000USA's operating costs are approximately $4 per year, making it a cost-effective choice compared to traditional systems. It only requires 4.3 watts of electricity to function.
Find the Perfect Electronic Water Descaler for Your Home: A Comprehensive Buyer's Guide
When choosing an electronic water descaler, there are many good brands available. It's more important to consider your specific needs and the conditions in your home, as what works for one person may not work for another.
Benefits of Installing an Electronic Water Descaler
Installing and using an electronic descaler has several benefits:
- Extending the lifespan of pipework and appliances such as shower pipes, water heaters, storage tanks, washing machines, and radiators
- Not altering water quality with chemicals or salt, which is important for people with cardiovascular issues
- Keeping essential minerals in the water for consumption
- Affordable pricing and low operating costs
- Not requiring remodeling of plumbing and being able to run unsupervised for long periods
Type of Electronic Water Descaler
There are three main electronic descalers on the market. Each type comes with its unique set of benefits.
1. Capacitive Electronic Descalers
Capacitive descalers are quite effective at preventing scale buildup in hard water. They use an electrical field to create a magnetic field that changes the composition of the minerals in hard water, preventing them from bonding and forming scale. These systems are maintenance-free and the results are instant, but they can be expensive. Capacitive descalers typically consist of two wires and a capacitor for storing energy until it's needed.
Capacitive water descalers are typically installed on the main water line and don't require any chemicals or salt to function.
2. Electromagnetic Water Descalers
Magnetic or electromagnetic water descalers are a cheaper alternative to capacitive descalers. They clip onto the incoming water pipe and generate a magnetic field around it, which changes the properties of minerals in hard water to prevent deposit buildup. These systems don't require chemicals or salt and are installed on the main water line, just like capacitive descalers.
3. DIY Electronic Water Descalers
DIY descalers are a type of electromagnetic water descalers which are quite easy to install with no need for a professional. Follow these straightforward steps:
- Locate the main incoming water pipe
- Find the best position for the wire coils
- Wind the coils around the water pipe
- Attach the main component to the wall
- Plug in the coils
- Connect the power cable and switch it on
Hard Water Problems? Solve Them with the Right Electronic Water Descaler
Here are factors to consider when shopping for an electronic water descaler.
Test for Water Hardness Levels
Water testing is affordable and easy. Simply purchase a water testing kit and follow the included instructions to determine the water hardness in Grains per Gallon (GPG).
Soft water has a rating of less than 3.5 GPG, medium-hard water is around 3.5 to 7 GPG, hard water is between 7 and 10 GPG, and very hard water is over 10 GPG. Extremely hard water measures over 17.5 GPG.
The type of electronic water conditioner you need depends on the hardness of your water.
- Hard water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium, which can leave deposits on pipes and appliances and reduce water flow and the efficiency of appliances. If hard water is a concern, look for a descaler system that is specifically designed to remove these minerals.
- Soft water has low levels of minerals but is more prone to corrosion. In this case, you'll want to choose a water descaler that is specifically designed to remove the corrosion-causing minerals from soft water.
- Well water often contains a variety of minerals and contaminants, so you may need a specific type of descaler to remove these minerals and contaminants.
Also Read: Hard Water vs. Soft Water Explained – Do Those Minerals Matter?
Size of the Unit
It's crucial to choose an electronic water descaler that's appropriately sized for your plumbing system to ensure its effective performance at removing mineral deposits and preventing scale buildup. If the unit is too small, it may not be able to effectively treat your entire system. If the unit is larger than necessary, it will be unnecessarily expensive.
For example, for a small home with a single bathroom, a kitchen sink, and a washing machine. In this case, a smaller electronic water descaler should be sufficient for your plumbing system. But, if you have a large home with multiple bathrooms, a kitchen sink, a washing machine, and a dishwasher, obviously it will require a larger electronic water descaler to effectively treat your water supply.
Flow Rate
When purchasing an electronic descaler, it's important to consider the water flow in the area where it will be used. Electronic descalers work best in areas where water is constantly moving.
Installing the descaler at the main water line before a heater will provide scale-free water to your entire home. The flow rate is highest at this point, ensuring the most effective descaling process.
One advantage of electronic descalers is that they don't slow down water flow like tank-based water softeners do. Water doesn't need to pass through a series of units and tanks before returning to the main water line.
Ease of Installation
The ease of installation for electronic descalers can vary based on the specific product and the plumbing system. Some descalers are easy to install by homeowners, while others may require professional installation.
Electronic descalers that are designed for DIY installation usually come with clear instructions and necessary mounting hardware and connectors. These units can usually be installed within a few hours using basic hand tools.
On the other hand, some electronic descalers require professional installation. This process may involve cutting into pipes and making modifications to the plumbing system. Specialized tools may also be required, and installation may take longer.
Before attempting to install a descaler yourself, it's important to carefully read the instructions. If you're unsure about your ability to install the unit, it's highly recommended to hire a professional.
Warranty and Certification
A warranty is important when purchasing an electronic descaler. It protects you in the event of a faulty device or if the unit does not perform as expected.
Consider purchasing a unit from a brand that offers a money-back guarantee if you're concerned about wasting money. The warranty allows you to try out the descaler and determine if it's suitable for your home.
Some brands offer a lifetime warranty, replacing the product throughout your ownership. Keep in mind that these water descalers are typically not subject to wear and tear.
When choosing a descaler, look for one with certifications to US, UK, and EU standards. Make sure the product comes from a certified company that complies with current safety standards.
Effectiveness
One factor is the amount of hard water minerals that the descaler removes. The best descalers can remove up to 25 GPG minerals from your home's water.
It's also important to consider the effectiveness of the descaler compared to a tank-based water softening system. Salt-less electronic water descalers are efficient, but they may not be the most effective option.
When choosing a descaler, consider the following questions:
- How important is it for your entire household to have improved water quality?
- What do you consider to be high quality water?
- Do you want to reduce limescale only, or are factors such as the lather and feel of the water on your hair and skin important to you?
It may seem counterintuitive that descalers don't remove magnesium and calcium, but this doesn't necessarily mean that the system isn't working. The effectiveness of a descaler should be judged based on its ability to reduce the effects of hard water, rather than its ability to remove minerals.
Cost
An electronic water descaler typically costs between $200 to $500 on average. However, it's important to consider both the initial upfront price and the maintenance cost of the unit when making a decision.
For instance, a cheaper model may seem like a good deal at first. However, if it requires frequent maintenance or replacement parts, the long-term cost may end up being higher than a more expensive model.
It may therefore be worth investing in an electronic water descaler that has a longer warranty or requires less maintenance and is more effective at removing mineral deposits from your water.
Compatibility With Other Water Treatment Systems
If your water contains common impurities like fluoride, lead, or chlorine, you might want to consider getting a water filtration system in addition to a descaling unit. A reverse osmosis system is especially effective, but it can be expensive.
If you only want to prevent scale buildup, a conditioning unit will be sufficient. Alternatively, you can purchase a water filter with a top-rated salt-free water softening system for both filtering and conditioning benefits.
Hard Water Solutions: Electronic Water Descaler vs Water Softener vs Reverse Osmosis Systems
Let's take a closer look at the key differences between electronic water descalers, water softeners, and reverse osmosis systems.
| Features | Electronic Water Descaler | Water Softener | Reverse Osmosis Systems |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mode of Operation | Use electric currents or magnetic field to alter the structure of minerals in hard water | Use ion exchange to remove hard water minerals | Water forces through a membrane to physically remove contaminants |
| Types of Contaminants Removes | Prevent scale build-up | Remove hard water minerals such as calcium and magnesium | Remove a wide range of contaminants including bacteria and viruses and total dissolved solids |
| Maintenance Requirements | Minimal | Regular replacement of filters or chemicals | Regular replacement of filters media or chemicals |
| Cost | Generally less expensive than types of water filters | Generally more expensive than electronic descalers | Generally more expensive than electronic descalers |
| Effectiveness | Depending on the unit and conditions in the home | Effective at removing minerals in hard water | Effective at removing a wide range of contaminants |
| Capacity | Typically measured in gallons per day | Typically measured in grains per gallon | Typically measures in gallons per day |
Final Thoughts…
An electronic water descaler is a good option if you want to improve the water quality in your household.
These units are budget-friendly alternatives to water softening systems and require no maintenance. They are also easy to install for homeowners or landlords.
There are many benefits to using electronic water descalers.
Our reviews and buying guide should have provided you with enough information to make a smart decision on the best electronic water descalers on the market.
Choose from our top picks and enjoy softer water in your home.
