Water Softener - same parts?

[dkooda]

I just bought a water softener, a GE SmartWater (or something like that). I got it from my local building supply store. I figured it was a decent price - around 500 for a 39,000 grain with a demand switch.

I brought it home and discovered it to have identical parts to the one I was replacing. The previous model was a Sears Kenmore, with a slightly lesser capacity. The tank is a different design, but the bypass, demand switch, solinoid, etc are all identical. Everything but the electronics are the same. Geez, GE and Kenmore aren't the same company, are they?

Do all companies just buy a 'standard' softener and re-brand it? Maybe I spent too much.

Anyway, I thought it was interesting that they are identical and am wondering if anyone else has had a similar experience. If I'm just paying for generic parts, maybe I should by a 'generic' brand and enjoy the same soft water.

Thanks,

Dan

[DUNBAR]

I don't install very many water softeners in my profession, but I have ran into this situation as you explain.

Buying a generic water softener could constitute problems down the road.

Nothing wrong with saving money, but you want a unit that has a proven history in being able to:

1. Provide long time use without fading effeciency

2. Being able to properly repair unit when the time comes



If you buy the cheaper brands, you sometimes run into Not being able to find replacement parts,,let alone interchangeable from product maker to product maker.

[imported_joed]

Sears does not make anything. All their products like TV, watersoftner, lawnmowers, garage door openers, etc are made by someone else and rebranded with the sears/kenmore name.