FCCST2 softening cartridge

FCCST2 softening cartridge

Aquafilter ion exchanger for softening water and removing iron

The FCCST2 softening cartridge contains an ion-exchange resin (sodium, strong acid type), which reduces the content of calcium and magnesium, the substances that cause water hardness and limescale. At the same time it reduces the concentration of iron in the water. The cartridge is designed for under-sink water filters of 10″ × 2.5″, duplex and triplex systems and Aquafilter filters.

The cartridge has separate polypropylene filter layers on both sides, which prevent resin particles from flowing into the water. Aquafilter makes it in the European Union.

FCCST2 softening cartridge

How does it work and where does it sit in the filtration chain?

Water flows through the resin. Calcium, magnesium and iron ions bind to the resin, and sodium ions are released into the water (ion exchange). That gives you softer, iron-free water that does not leave limescale on taps and glass.

The manufacturer recommends installing a sediment cartridge (FCPS) in front of the softening cartridge, which traps particles and extends the life of the resin. The cartridge is not intended for removing chlorine, so install a carbon cartridge after it. The water must be microbiologically suitable or disinfected before or after the system.

Advantages: FCCST2 softening cartridge

• Softens water: replaces calcium and magnesium with sodium
• Reduces limescale on taps, kettles and appliances
• Removes iron and the metallic taste of water
• Fewer stains on glass and the kitchen sink
• According to the manufacturer, up to 30% lower detergent consumption
• Protects the washing machine and dishwasher from limescale
• Standard size 10″ × 2.5″
• Made in the EU, price: €18.90

Use: FCCST2 softening cartridge

Where to install it and what to combine it with

Choose the FCCST2 softening cartridge if you have hard water or iron in the water and need softer drinking water at a single point of use. Install it after a 5 micron sediment cartridge, and add an FCCBL-S carbon cartridge or the CTO carbon block 5 micron after it.

If you only want to reduce limescale and particles, see the cartridge for removing limescale, sand and mud. For larger amounts of iron there is the universal iron removal cartridge. You will find other cartridges in the category individual cartridges for water filters.

Replacement: FCCST2 softening cartridge

When to replace the cartridge

The manufacturer states a service life of 3 to 6 months, depending on how contaminated the water is. Under test conditions (hardness 35.8 mg/L, iron 0.2 ppm, flow 2 L/min) the capacity is about 400 litres. With harder water and a higher iron content the resin is exhausted sooner, so replace the cartridge when the water leaves limescale again or takes on a metallic taste. Shut off the water supply before replacing it.

Technical specifications: FCCST2 softening cartridge

• Manufacturer: Aquafilter (made in the EU)
• Media: ion-exchange resin (FDA), 0.6 L
• Size: 10″ × 2.5″ (250 × 71 mm)
• Operating temperature: 2 to 40 °C
• Operating pressure: up to 6 bar
• Body: HDPE, end caps: PP, seal: silicone, end filter: PP
• Capacity: approx. 400 L (test conditions)
• Service life: 3 to 6 months

If you are looking for an FCCST2 softening cartridge to soften water and remove iron, the Aquafilter 10″ × 2.5″ ion exchanger is a simple solution for under-sink filters. Also see our other water filters and reverse osmosis water filters.