FYI Changing out RV Water softener

[Joe Hogan]

Purchased a PRO+AQUA Portable Water Softener for the DutchStar. Have not been pleased with its operation. If it sits for any length of time empty, on first use the softener run brown water for a minute or so before running clear. Not sure what the contamination is but have stopped using it due to this issue. Prior to this softener, and recently purchased new was.is an On The Go portable water softener.
Our prior RV used an ON the GO water softener with great results. Hopefully the new one purchased will provide good service.

So much for trying to save a buck or two by buying the cheapest available at the time. :-(

On The Go - Portable Water Softener

www.portablewatersoftener.com

 

[JBright11]

I have the pro aqua and have not experienced the brown water issue you mentioned.

 

[Texas Clodhopper]

I went from an On The Go to a Pro Aqua, even though I haven't had a brown water issue, I miss the On The Go.

 

[CaptainGizmo]

Have configured and sold a couple dozen systems; all with OnTheGo Double and Single tanks. Never considered anything else, so thank you for confirming that they are still a wise choice.

Years ago, I remember our stupid house system, the old-school version that you had to dump sacks of salt pellets into, would throw out that brown, iron-rust colored water. That was what it was; rust that the resin would retain and then dump out for your pleasure!

 

[DennisT]

We have the Pro Aqua as well and been using it for 2 1/2 years full time - have not seen that issue.

Could be because ours is in use continuously though but have been pleased with the overall performance of the system.

That said I always flush things a bit after traveling just to clear out stagnant water in the filters etc. as well as the softener. We run from the tank while traveling. Have not seen any real issues when flushing either but normally just a few days of sitting.

 

[MemoriesByTheMile]

We have had that issue with a home based softener system, water coming out orange/brown after sitting for a period of time without pressure or flow while we traveled.
We dealt with it by flushing the water for quite a few minutes after we returned from each trip.
After changing out the resin the issue resolved.
It might be a much cheaper option to just keep the cheaper unit and swap out the resin to the same type used in your favored unit.
other factor is water quality while traveling. Might want to try using a resin cleaner. Makes a difference for us in house softener when water tables drop.