Hi, I'm Nikolai Antonov. I live in San Jose.
Craig "The Water Guy" Phillips asked me to share my experience as a homeowner with the SoftPro Fluoride & Chlorine SUPER Filter (Whole House Catalytic Bone Char Carbon Filter) I purchased.
This is how my adventures played out. I hope this helps you in your decision.
Looking back at the past six months, I never imagined that a water filter could transform my daily life so dramatically. When I first noticed the strong chlorine smell hitting me every morning in the shower, I thought it was just a temporary water utility issue. But weeks turned into months, and my family started complaining about the taste of our tap water, the way our skin felt dry after bathing, and how our morning coffee had developed an off-putting chemical aftertaste.
The breaking point came when my wife mentioned that her hair felt brittle and our youngest started asking for bottled water instead of drinking from the tap. I realized we were spending nearly $80 monthly on bottled water alone, not to mention the environmental guilt of all those plastic containers. That's when I knew I needed a comprehensive solution, not just another countertop pitcher that would need constant refilling.
Understanding the Real Problem Behind Our Water Issues
Before diving into my search for a solution, I wanted to understand exactly what we were dealing with. San Jose's municipal water, while meeting EPA standards, contains chlorine levels that can range from 0.5 to 4.0 parts per million for disinfection purposes. But did you know that the same chlorine that protects us from bacteria can also strip natural oils from our skin and hair?
I decided to test our water using a basic TDS meter and chlorine test strips. The results were eye-opening: our chlorine levels consistently measured around 2.8 ppm, well within safe limits but definitely explaining the strong chemical smell and taste. The total dissolved solids came in at 340 ppm, indicating moderate mineral content along with treatment chemicals.
What really concerned me was learning about chloramine, a chlorine-ammonia compound that many utilities use because it's more stable than regular chlorine. San Jose Water Company uses chloramines in certain areas, and I discovered this compound is much harder to remove with standard carbon filters. It requires specific catalytic media to break down effectively.
The health implications started adding up. Beyond the obvious taste and odor issues, I learned that chlorinated water can form trihalomethanes (THMs) when it reacts with organic matter. These byproducts have been linked to various health concerns when consumed over long periods. For our family of four, including two young children, I realized we needed protection that went beyond basic filtration.
Our appliances were suffering too. I noticed white, crusty buildup around our faucet aerators and inside our coffee maker. The hot water heater seemed to be working harder than usual, and our dishwasher left spots on glassware despite using rinse aid. These weren't just aesthetic problems - they represented long-term costs in appliance maintenance and replacement.
My Research Journey Into Whole House Filtration Solutions
Once I committed to finding a whole house solution, I spent weeks researching different technologies and approaches. I quickly learned that not all carbon filters are created equal, and the specific contaminants in our water would determine which system would work best.
Standard granular activated carbon (GAC) systems caught my attention first because of their lower price point. However, I discovered that regular GAC has limited effectiveness against chloramines and requires frequent media replacement. The flow rates also concerned me - many systems would create pressure drops during peak usage times when multiple fixtures were running simultaneously.
Reverse osmosis systems offered comprehensive contaminant removal, but the water waste factor was problematic for our drought-conscious California lifestyle. A whole house RO system would waste 3-4 gallons for every gallon of clean water produced, potentially doubling our water bill. The slow production rate would also require a large storage tank, taking up valuable space in our garage.
KDF (Kinetic Degradation Fluxion) media systems intrigued me with their ability to reduce chlorine, heavy metals, and bacteria through copper-zinc alloy oxidation-reduction reactions. However, the initial cost was higher, and I read mixed reviews about their effectiveness in warmer climates like ours, where higher water temperatures can reduce KDF efficiency.
That's when I discovered catalytic carbon technology. Unlike regular carbon that simply adsorbs chlorine, catalytic carbon actually converts chlorine and chloramines into harmless chloride ions through a chemical reaction. This means the media lasts longer and maintains effectiveness even as the carbon bed ages. The SoftPro system caught my attention because it combined catalytic carbon with bone char carbon, creating a dual-stage approach that addressed both chemical contaminants and taste/odor issues.
The bone char component was particularly interesting. Made from carefully processed animal bones, this media has been used for water purification for over 150 years. It excels at removing fluoride - something that concerned my wife after her research into dental health alternatives for our children. Bone char also removes other trace contaminants and polishes the water for exceptional taste quality.
I spent considerable time comparing flow rates and pressure drops across different systems. The SoftPro unit promised 15-20 GPM flow rates with minimal pressure reduction, which would easily handle our household's peak demand of approximately 12 GPM during busy morning routines.
Unboxing and Initial Impressions of the SoftPro System
When the SoftPro system arrived via freight delivery, I was immediately impressed by the professional packaging. The 48-inch tall fiberglass tank was securely strapped to a pallet with protective foam padding. Everything arrived in perfect condition, which gave me confidence in the company's attention to detail.
The build quality exceeded my expectations. The fiberglass tank felt substantial and well-constructed, with clean, professional fittings and a corrosion-resistant control valve. The included installation manual was comprehensive, with clear diagrams and step-by-step instructions. I appreciated that they included a detailed specification sheet showing the exact media quantities and expected performance parameters.
Opening the media containers revealed the high-quality filtration materials inside. The catalytic carbon had a deep, rich black color and uniform granule size, while the bone char was noticeably lighter in color with a slightly different texture. The pre-installed media bed was properly layered, with support gravel at the bottom, the bone char layer in the middle, and catalytic carbon on top.
The Fleck 5600SXT control valve impressed me most. This wasn't some generic timer valve - it's a demand-initiated regeneration system that monitors actual water usage and only backwashes when needed. The digital display shows remaining capacity, days since last regeneration, and current flow rate. After dealing with a basic timer system on a previous water softener that wasted water with unnecessary regeneration cycles, this intelligent approach was exactly what I wanted.
I did notice the system was larger than I initially anticipated. At 48 inches tall and 13 inches in diameter, it required some rearranging in our utility room. However, the professional appearance actually enhanced our mechanical room rather than detracting from it. The neutral beige color blended well with our existing water heater and other utilities.
Installation Experience and Initial Setup Process
I decided to tackle the installation myself, having some plumbing experience from previous home projects. The SoftPro system requires a 1-inch main line connection, which meant upgrading from our existing 3/4-inch line between the main shutoff and the house. This wasn't mentioned prominently in the product description, so I had to make an unexpected trip to the hardware store for larger fittings.
The installation process took most of a Saturday, including the time needed to upgrade the main line. I installed a bypass valve system as recommended, allowing us to bypass the filter for outdoor irrigation and during maintenance. This required careful planning to ensure the bypass was accessible but didn't interfere with the system's operation.
Connecting the drain line for backwash cycles was straightforward. The system needs a 1-inch drain line that can handle approximately 8-10 GPM flow during regeneration. I connected it to our utility sink drain with a proper air gap to prevent any potential cross-contamination. The drain line runs about 15 feet to reach our utility sink, but the flow rate during backwash cycles easily handled this distance without any backup issues.
Programming the Fleck control valve was surprisingly intuitive. The system comes pre-programmed for typical residential use, but I wanted to customize it for our family's specific usage patterns. I set it for 4-day maximum intervals between backwash cycles, though the demand-initiated feature means it only regenerates based on actual water consumption and media bed condition.
The initial startup and rinse cycle took about 45 minutes. During this process, the system flushes any carbon fines and conditions the media bed for optimal performance. I followed the instructions carefully, running water at multiple fixtures throughout the house to ensure complete system integration. The water ran slightly gray for the first 10 minutes, then cleared to crystal transparency.
One challenge I encountered was achieving proper water pressure balance. Initially, I noticed about a 15 PSI pressure drop across the system, which was higher than expected. After consulting with SoftPro's technical support, I learned this was normal for the first few days as the media bed settles and compacts. They were right - by day four, the pressure drop had reduced to about 8 PSI, which is barely noticeable during normal use.
The first taste test was remarkable. The chlorine odor that had been our constant companion completely disappeared. The water tasted clean and fresh, without any chemical aftertaste or the slightly medicinal flavor we'd grown accustomed to. My wife immediately noticed the difference, and our children started choosing tap water over their usual juice boxes.
Comprehensive Feature Analysis and Performance Testing
Catalytic Carbon Technology Performance
The catalytic carbon component has exceeded my expectations in every measurable way. Using test strips, I measured our pre-filtration chlorine levels at 2.8 ppm and post-filtration levels consistently at zero. What impressed me most was learning that catalytic carbon doesn't just absorb chlorine like regular carbon - it actually converts chlorine and chloramines into harmless chloride ions through a catalytic reaction.
This chemical conversion means the carbon bed maintains its effectiveness much longer than traditional GAC systems. After four months of use, my chlorine tests still show complete removal, with no breakthrough even during high-usage periods. The manufacturers claim the catalytic media should last 3-5 years before replacement, and based on its consistent performance, I believe that estimate is realistic for our household consumption of approximately 300 gallons daily.
Bone Char Carbon Fluoride Removal
The bone char component was specifically why I chose this system over simpler catalytic carbon filters. San Jose water typically contains 0.7-1.0 ppm fluoride, and after installation, my testing showed reduction to approximately 0.1 ppm. This 85-90% reduction rate aligns with the manufacturer's specifications and gave my wife peace of mind regarding our children's total fluoride exposure from drinking water.
Beyond fluoride removal, the bone char provides exceptional taste polishing. There's a noticeable smoothness to our water now that's difficult to describe but immediately apparent when comparing it to bottled water. Friends and family who visit consistently comment on how clean and refreshing our Fluoride Filtration tap water tastes, often asking if we've installed some expensive European filtration system.
Flow Rate and Pressure Performance
The system delivers on its promised flow rates without creating problematic pressure drops. During peak usage - simultaneous showers, dishwasher, and washing machine operation - I measured 14 GPM flow with only a 6 PSI pressure drop from incoming municipal pressure of 65 PSI. This means strong, satisfying water pressure at all fixtures even during busy morning routines when everyone's getting ready simultaneously.
The 1-inch inlet/outlet connections make a significant difference compared to smaller systems I researched. Many competitors use 3/4-inch connections that create bottlenecks during high-demand periods. The larger connections, combined with the carefully engineered media bed, ensure that filtration doesn't come at the expense of performance.
Fleck 5600SXT Control System Intelligence
The demand-initiated regeneration system has proven both efficient and effective. Rather than running backwash cycles on a fixed schedule regardless of usage, the Fleck valve monitors water consumption and media bed condition to determine optimal regeneration timing. During a recent week when we traveled, the system automatically delayed its regeneration cycle, saving water and extending media life.
The digital display provides valuable operational information that helps me understand our water usage patterns. I can see that our family typically uses 280-320 gallons daily, with peak usage on weekend mornings when everyone's home. The remaining capacity indicator gives me confidence that the system is managing its cycles optimally without any guesswork on my part.
Build Quality and Durability Assessment
After six months of continuous operation, the system shows no signs of wear or deterioration. The fiberglass tank remains in perfect condition, with no discoloration, cracking, or other aging signs. The Fleck control valve operates smoothly and quietly, with regeneration cycles producing only a gentle whoosh of water movement that's barely audible from adjacent rooms.
The stainless steel internal components appear well-manufactured and corrosion-resistant. During a recent media bed inspection (accomplished by briefly removing the control valve), I found the internal distributor system and media bed support structures in excellent condition with no signs of erosion or damage from water flow.
Real-World Daily Impact and Family Health Improvements
The most immediate and noticeable improvement was in our daily shower and bathing experience. Within three days of installation, both my wife and I noticed that our skin felt less dry and tight after showering. Our children's sensitive skin, which had been showing signs of dryness and minor irritation, improved dramatically. We've actually reduced our use of moisturizing lotions and expensive sensitive-skin body washes.
Our hair health transformed completely. My wife, who had been struggling with brittle, dry hair that she attributed to aging, discovered that it was actually the chlorinated water causing the damage. Within two weeks, her hair regained its natural softness and shine. Our daughter's fine, blonde hair no longer tangles as severely after washing, making our evening bath routine much more pleasant for everyone involved.
Coffee and tea preparation became a completely different experience. We had grown so accustomed to the chemical aftertaste in our morning coffee that we didn't realize how much it was affecting our enjoyment. Now, the subtle flavors in our coffee beans come through clearly, and guests consistently compliment the taste of beverages we serve. We've actually started buying higher-quality coffee beans because we can now taste the difference the quality makes.
Cooking improvements were unexpected but significant. Soups, pasta water, and rice all taste cleaner and more vibrant. Ice cubes are crystal clear instead of the slightly cloudy appearance they had before, and they don't contribute any off-flavors to drinks. Our vegetables seem to retain their natural flavors better when washed and cooked with the filtered water.
The elimination of bottled water purchases has simplified our grocery shopping and reduced household waste considerably. We had been buying 4-5 cases of bottled water weekly, which created storage challenges and generated significant plastic waste. Now, everyone in the family drinks tap water willingly, and we've purchased stainless steel water bottles for school and work use.
Our appliances have shown noticeable improvements too. The coffee maker no longer develops mineral buildup around the water reservoir, and internal components stay cleaner longer. The dishwasher produces spot-free dishes and glassware without requiring rinse aid additives. Even our washing machine seems to clean clothes more effectively, with colors staying brighter and whites remaining whiter without the dulling effect of chlorinated water.
Operational Costs and Long-Term Economic Analysis
The ongoing operational costs have proven more economical than I initially projected. The system uses approximately 150 gallons of water per backwash cycle, running every 4-6 days based on our usage patterns. This translates to roughly 25-30 backwash cycles annually, consuming about 4,000 gallons yearly for regeneration - a small fraction of our total household water usage of approximately 110,000 gallons annually.
Electricity consumption is minimal since the Fleck control valve only draws power during regeneration cycles and for maintaining its electronic memory. I estimate the annual electrical cost at less than $15 based on our local utility rates. This is significantly lower than systems requiring continuous UV sterilization or electric pumps for operation.
The elimination of bottled water purchases generates immediate monthly savings of $75-85, meaning the system pays for itself in operational savings alone within 18 months. Additionally, we've reduced our consumption of expensive moisturizing products and specialty shampoos designed for dry, damaged hair, saving another $20-30 monthly.
Media replacement costs are projected every 3-5 years based on our usage patterns and water quality. SoftPro estimates replacement cost at approximately $400-500 for both catalytic carbon and bone char media, which averages to $80-125 annually when amortized over media life. This compares favorably to GAC systems that require annual media replacement at $200-300 per year.
Appliance protection benefits are harder to quantify but potentially significant. Our water heater, dishwasher, washing machine, and coffee maker should all experience extended lifespans due to the elimination of chlorine and other aggressive chemicals. Based on typical appliance replacement cycles, I estimate this protection could save $200-400 annually in premature replacement costs.
The total annual operating cost, including water for regeneration, electricity, and amortized media replacement, comes to approximately $140-170. When compared to our previous bottled water expenses of $900-1000 annually, plus the health and appliance benefits, the economic case is compelling even before considering environmental and convenience factors.
Maintenance Experience and System Reliability
Routine maintenance has been remarkably straightforward and minimal. The demand-initiated regeneration system handles all necessary backwashing automatically, requiring no intervention from me except for occasional monitoring of the cycle timing and duration. The digital display makes it easy to verify that regenerations are occurring at appropriate intervals based on our water usage.
Monthly maintenance consists primarily of visual inspection and basic performance monitoring. I check the display for any error codes or unusual readings, verify that regeneration cycles are completing properly, and test the treated water quality using simple chlorine test strips. This entire process takes less than five minutes and can be done during other utility room tasks.
The system has operated reliably without any service calls or technical issues during my six months of ownership. The Fleck 5600SXT valve has a reputation for reliability in the water treatment industry, and my experience supports that reputation. The valve operates quietly during regeneration cycles, typically between 2-4 AM when the household water usage is minimal.
Media bed condition appears excellent based on my periodic water quality testing and flow rate monitoring. The catalytic carbon and bone char show no signs of channeling, breakthrough, or performance degradation. The manufacturers recommend professional media inspection every 2-3 years, which seems reasonable given the system's robust performance and conservative design margins.
I've had excellent experiences with SoftPro's customer support on the few occasions when I've called with technical questions. Their technical staff demonstrated deep knowledge of the system's operation and provided clear, helpful guidance for optimizing performance based on our specific water conditions and usage patterns. Response times were prompt, and they followed up to ensure my questions were fully resolved.
The system's bypass valve allows for easy maintenance access and system isolation when needed. During a recent whole-house plumbing upgrade, I was able to bypass the filter completely, allowing uninterrupted water service while protecting the system from any debris that might be stirred up during the plumbing work.
Final Assessment and Honest Recommendation
After six months of daily use and careful evaluation, the SoftPro Fluoride & Chlorine SUPER Filter has exceeded my expectations in virtually every measurable category. The combination of catalytic carbon and bone char technologies provides comprehensive contaminant removal while maintaining excellent flow rates and minimal maintenance requirements.
The health and quality-of-life improvements for our family have been substantial and immediately noticeable. From better-tasting water and coffee to improved skin and hair health, the system has delivered benefits I didn't even anticipate when making the purchase decision. The elimination of bottled water purchases has simplified our lifestyle while reducing environmental impact.
Economically, the system makes compelling sense for families with moderate to high water usage and concerns about chlorine, chloramines, and fluoride exposure. The combination of operational savings, appliance protection, and health benefits justifies the initial investment, particularly when amortized over the system's expected 10-15 year lifespan.
This system is ideal for households dealing with heavily chlorinated municipal water, families with sensitive skin or hair issues, and anyone prioritizing high-quality drinking water without the waste and expense of bottled water. The fluoride removal capability makes it particularly attractive for parents concerned about their children's total fluoride exposure from drinking water sources.
Would I purchase this system again knowing what I know now?
Absolutely. The performance, reliability, and comprehensive benefits make it one of the best home improvement investments I've made. The peace of mind knowing that our family is drinking and bathing in high-quality, contaminant-free water is invaluable.
For families in similar situations - dealing with chlorinated municipal water, concerned about fluoride exposure, or simply wanting the best possible water quality throughout their home - the SoftPro Fluoride & Chlorine SUPER Filter represents an excellent long-term solution that delivers consistent, measurable results.