How to Size a Water Softener – Commercial Water Softener Sizing

Water Softener Sizing for Commercial Application

Besco water softener system

To maintain a continuous flow of clean, soft water in your commercial business or industrial facility, it’s important to check that you have the correct size water softener. Water softeners vary in size and depending on a number of factors, your water softener may be too big or too small for the commercial business you’re running. Having the wrong water softener size can lead to various issues with inefficiency, frequent servicing and more that can end up costing money and resources in the long run. That is why it is critical for you to take water softener sizing into consideration to ensure your water treatment system is fully optimized for your business. Whether it’s during a routine maintenance check or while you’re considering purchasing a water softener system, be sure to do your research or ask your water softener specialist about commercial water softener sizing.

Water Softener Sizing Calculator

There are several factors that play into determining the proper water softener size and certain criteria may apply on a case-by-case basis. However, the following are the general key factors to consider in finding out what size water softener your commercial business should implement.

Flow rate (Gallons Per Day) Flow rate refers to the possibility of how quickly water will need to travel throughout your facility and during peak times.
Water Hardness (Grains Per Gallon) Water hardness is the measurement of calcium and magnesium found in the water supply in grains per gallon.
Total GPD (Grains Per Day) Total GPD refers to the daily softening requirement measured in grains per day.
Volume How much water per day at peak times.

We use these factors to calculate water softener size with a simple equation:

Flow Rate × Water Hardness = Total GPD


The Total GPD will allow you to determine what size water softener is needed based on the water softener system’s grain capacity. Keep in mind, this is an estimated calculation. You should consult a water softener expert when looking into water softener sizing for your commercial business or industrial plant.

Commercial Water Softener Sizing Professionals

duplex water softener system

Water softeners are not all one in the same. If you are unsure whether your commercial water softener is the appropriate size, it is a matter worth investigating. Properly sizing your water softener could mean maximizing efficiency, consistent and reliable water production, saving overall costs, and prolonging the softener’s lifespan. Water softener sizing is not to be taken lightly, so be sure to speak to your commercial water treatment professionals about your water softener size. We are also available and happy to help with any commercial water system questions you may have. You can give us a call at (800) 964-0257 or fill out our form to get in contact with a Besco Commercial representative.

One thought on “How to Size a Water Softener – Commercial Water Softener Sizing

  1. Good day
    How would I size a water softener for a flow of 600 000 liters per day and a total hardness of+616 mg/liter

    this is ground borehole water we want to use for factory water and water is purified by a Miox on site chemeical generator

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