NuvoH2O DPSB Studio Salt-Free Water Softener System Review
Written by: Alexandra Uta // Expert Fact-Checking: Buddhini Dolapihilla, MBSS // Last Updated: Aug 4, 2023
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Contents
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Today we are going to take a look at the NuvoH2O Studio System with the model number DPSB.
NuvoH2O Studio |
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| Price: | $$ |
| Flow Rate: | 12-15 gpm |
| Capacity: | 20,000 Gallons |
| # of People: | 1 |
| Tech: | Chelation |
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Our Rating
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NuvoH2O DPSB Studio Salt-Free Water Softener – Key Features
Now NuvoH2O softeners are not salt-based but use chelation to bind hardness minerals, first and foremost calcium and magnesium, so they remain soluble and won’t cause hard water problems like scaling.
As you can already tell, the “softened” water is different from the water that a genuine salt-based softener provides.
By the way, the chelating agent that NuvoH2O softeners – actually we should say conditioners – rely on is called “CitraCharge“.
The main active ingredient in CitraCharge is FDA-approved citric acid (→regulations), which also occurs in fruits and veggies and which is currently being used as a natural preservative in many foods and drinks.
According to NuvoH2O, the citric acid not only prevents hard water build-up, it also removes existing scale. To what extent this is possible is difficult for us to determine.
One thing is for certain, the acid will lower the pH-level of your water which is an effective way of getting rid of mineral deposits.
Some technical details:
This Studio version is for single-person households only.
NuvoH2O says it’s ideal for homes under 1,000 square feet. Although it doesn’t really make a difference how large your condo, townhome or apartment is as long as it doesn’t have more than 1 bathroom and your water usage is low.
The provided flow rate is between 12 and 15 gallons per minute. The maximum allowed water pressure is 100 psi.
Also, please note that Nuvo systems are NOT suited if you are on a well or if your water has a pH of 7.2 or below.
And lastly, the company provides a 90-day money-back guarantee if you are not satisfied with your product. You won’t get a full refund, though. Costs for shipping and handling will be deducted.
NuvoH2O also promises a lifetime warranty and will repair, modify or exchange a malfunctioning system for free.
DPSB Studio Pros
There are a couple of things that we like about the Nuvo Studio.
For one, it’s compact. It is comprised of a single tank and fits almost anywhere.
What’s more, it’s eco-friendly. It won’t add salt to your water, it does not run on electricity, and it doesn’t waste water like regular salt softeners do during regen.
Not having to keep adding salt to a brine tank is another convenience.
Other benefits are:
- The conditioned water will not feel slimy on your skin.
- All healthy minerals are preserved.
- If you are on a low-sodium diet, you don’t have to worry about added salt. The water is 100% safe to drink.
Some but not all users also experienced healthier skin and hair, brighter and softer clothes, reduced soap and detergent usage, and an increased lifespan of their plumbing and household appliances.
Did we mention that this conditioner is NSF-certified against Standard 169 for general purpose scale control?
The NuvoH2O Studio – learn more on amazon.com
Installation + Startup Instructions
If you are able to install a regular salt-based softener, you will have no problems with this particular model. It’s a compact singe-tank unit, it features a built-in bypass valve, it does not require a drain connection… It does not even have to be calibrated!
Simply mount the conditioner on your main water line without over-tightening the fittings and that’s it (well, more or less).
Want a more detailed outline of the process? Here is what you need to do:
1. Finding the Best Location
First of all, you have to find the right spot for installation. Keep in mind that the system must be installed vertically and protected from direct sunlight and freezing.
If you already use a whole house filter, install the Nuvo after this unit, not before.
2. Setup
- Close your main water supply valve.
- Attach the wall mounting back plate. Leave out bottom right screw.
- Attach the mounting C-bracket.
- Remove head from cartridge housing by detaching the collar. Use wrench (included) if necessary.
- Attach housing head to the wall by inserting the nipples (not included) through the side holes in the C-Bracket.
- Connect the water supply line inlet to the housing inlet port (“IN“). Connect the water supply line outlet to the housing outlet port (“OUT“). Use thread seal tape to prevent leakages.
- Make sure the O-ring is properly seated inside the housing body.
- Insert softening cartridge into housing body.
- Attach the housing body to the housing head using the collar. Tighten with wrench.
- Open your main water supply valve.
- Turn housing head to “Softener” position.
- Check for leaks.
- Flush the cartridge at minimal flow for one hour before using the water.
3. Video
If a picture says more than a thousand words, how much more does a video say?
The Package (Parts)
- NuvoH2O Studio System (model number DPSB)
- NuvoH2O Studio cartridge
- Mounting back plate
- Mounting bracket
- Screws
- Housing wrench
- User manual
Piping and connectors to hook this system up to your existing plumbing are not included.
Programming, Settings & Maintenance
Like we said, there is no need to calibrate the Studio, thus no programming is required.
In terms of maintenance, the cartridges are made to last between 4 and 6 months, depending on your water usage, hardness level, pressure and temperature.
The manual says their capacity is about 20,000 gallons. Other sources state 10,000. In other words, you’ll have to try for yourself. If you consume 100 gallons of water a day, 10,000 gallons are going to last you for 100 days or rather a little more than 3 months. 20,000 gallons would mean 6 months until replacement.
In case you wonder, replacement cartridges are available online and in many retail stores. The replacement itself is a breeze (see video, minute 7:55).
DPSB Studio Cons
A handful of customers struggled with the following issues:
- Their results were minute. Hard water stains did not vanish, for example. We assume their water was too alkaline.
- Their system started leaking.
- For homes with copper piping, the water came out blue for a couple of days after installing the conditioner. The effect is harmless and will dissipate over time, says Nuvo.
- Some system parts deformed in hot weather. The warranty does not cover environmental damage.
NuvoH2O DPSB Studio Review: Our Verdict + Best for
“Works prefect“, “Well worth the money“, “Great product. Excellent service” and “Fast shipping and great price” is some of the feedback that the NuvoH2O Studio water conditioner has received.
Users report less calcium deposits on kitchenware and shower doors and praise the easy install of the environmentally friendly system – and we couldn’t agree more.
Just keep in mind that if you expect truly softened water, you are in for a surprise. Yes, the system can prevent scaling, but it does not remove any hardness minerals. This is why it won’t have any effect processing water with a pH-value of 7.2 or below.
Other than that, the price is quite high for such a small unit. Our verdict: 3 out of 5 stars!
The NuvoH2O Studio is best for small homes.
More Reviews:
- Pst. Click here for more NuvoH2O reviews!
- Our salt-free water softener toplist can be found here.
- Or are you interested in the top rated water conditioners?
This completes our NuvoH2O Studio System review. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below!
About the Author Alexandra Uta
Information provided on BOS is for educational purposes only. The products and services we review may not be right for your individual circumstances.
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