Written by: Alexandra Uta // Expert Fact-Checking: Buddhini Dolapihilla, MBSS // Last Updated: Aug 4, 2023
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The NuvoH2O Home System (model DPHB) is a water conditioner suited for small to mid-sized households with 2-3 people and normal water use.
We say conditioner because the system will not remove any hardness minerals from your water as you might be used to from a regular salt-based water softener.
NuvoH2O Home |
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Price: | $$ |
Flow Rate: | 12-15 gpm |
Capacity: | 35,000 Gallons |
# of People: | 2-3 |
Tech: | Chelation |
Our Rating
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NuvoH2O water conditioners makes use of a chelating agent to bind calcium and magnesium ions and prevent the formation of scale deposits in the pipes of your plumbing system, your water heater as well as other fixtures and appliances.
What’s more, a study has shown that already existing scale can be removed.
The months-long study was conducted with municipal water with approx. 15 grains per gallon hardness – so very hard water – and more importantly a pH-value between 7.8 and 8.0. (This is key!)
The results:
Now again, the NuvoH2O is not a water softener as you know it. It will only condition your water so hard deposits won’t stick. The desired effect might be the same, but the process is entirely different.
By the way, the chelation agent used is citric acid (FDA-approved), which binds to hardness minerals so they remain soluble.
More Details:
One of the benefits of this water conditioner is that it’s small compared to salt-based units. There is no brine tank, no huge resin tank and no massive head control valve.
Above that, salt-free systems are eco-friendly. They don’t release any sodium into our supply systems and don’t waste dozens of water gallons for backwashing and regeneration.
Another issue that many people have with regular softened water is the slimy feel. Not so with water provided by Nuvo. No salt is being added and no essential minerals are being removed – perfect for drinking and cooking.
The NuvoH2O Home – learn more on amazon.com
Installing the NuvoH2O Home System yourself should not be a problem. It comes with a built-in bypass valve so you don’t have to worry about that. Plus the system is small enough to fit in narrow places.
Just make sure to not over-tighten the fittings to prevent leakages and you are good to go.
Looking for some step-by-step instructions? Sure, here is what you need to do:
First of all, you have to find a suitable location to install the unit. You should avoid direct sunlight and freezing temperatures or your warranty will be void.
We found this YouTube video that outlines the installation in more detail. We know it’s not perfect, but it gives you a basic idea of the process:
Piping and connectors that are required for installation are not included in the package.
Fortunately, the Home System is super low maintenance. All you have to do is change the cartridge containing the chelating agent about every 35,000 gallons or 6 months, whichever comes first.
More frequent replacements might be necessary depending on your level of water hardness, pressure and temperature.
Cartridges can be purchased online and in a number of retail stores.
How to replace them is also explained in the video above (minute 7:55).
One thing is for certain, NuvoH2O systems are far from perfect.
For example, too many customers see absolutely no beneficial effects, probably because their water does not meet the required conditions. That’s why there are so many “waste of money“-ratings to be found online. We would suggest Nuvo to change their marketing strategy!
It can also happen that your system starts leaking. Especially the plastic head is predestined for this.
On top of that, be aware that if your home uses copper piping, your water might take on a bluish tint in the beginning. This has to do with residues of air and copper oxide in your plumbing and usually does not pose a health risk.
People have mixed opinions about NuvoH2O conditioners. Some couldn’t be more satisfied with their before and after results, while others are unhappy with their purchase and would not recommend the systems to anyone.
The bottom line is that using a Nuvo system your water won’t be the same as provided by a Fleck or Culligan softener for example. Still, with a high-enough pH-level, chances are that you will see reduced scaling and mineral deposits vanishing over time.
In other words, check your water’s pH and go from there. Considering the relatively high price, our verdict is 3.5 stars!
The NuvoH2O DPHB is best for medium-sized homes with a water pH of 7.2+.
This completes our NuvoH2O Home System review. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below!
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