Harvey Minimax Water Softener Review
The MiniMax Water Softener Review
We know that every retailer claims to have the better brand of softener - so it’s no surprise it can leave you feeling confused.
If you’re considering purchasing a MiniMax system - read our expert MiniMax water softener review. We outline everything you need to know, as well as alternatives.
Quick Summary
You may have been under the impression that MiniMax systems are superior when compared to other models on the market. The truth is that the Minimax, Gemini and TwinTec ranges are all manufcatured by Harvey Water Softeners and all have identical specifications. As experts in the industry we can confirm - the quality of the Minimax range is one of the best, but you are likely to get a better deal with TwinTec, so it is important to shop around before making your decision. With all systems in both ranges - you'll get Harvey Water Softener quality and ten year warranties and the same technical spec.
If you’re specifically looking for the S4, click the button to compare the difference between the Twintec S4 and MiniMax M3.
What is the MiniMax Brand?
Choosing the right model of water softener is a a common area of confusion - especially when it comes to the Harvey brand - why? because there is such a varied product range. From TwinTec to Minimax and Harvey’s own retail brand - all of these softeners are manufactured by Harvey in the same warehouse.
So what is the Minimax brand and why is it different?
We hate to break it to you, but the truth is it is not different; it is essentially the same as the other branded products. And most of the time, you’ll find the same technical specifications - with a different cabinet.
Model Comparison
When we said these water softener ranges have similar specifications, we weren’t joking. For example, when looking at the TwinTec & MiniMax 4th generation, you’ll find:
- 1. Type of System: both are a non-electric, block salt and twin tank system.
- 2. Both come with a 10-year warranty for parts and 2 years for labour.
- 3. Flow rate of 56 litres per minute.
- 4. Water Usage: both use just 17 litres of water per regeneration.
- 5. Salt Usage: 300g per regeneration.
- 6. A regeneration time of 11 minutes.
- 7. The same dimensions: 490mm high and 205mm wide, with a depth of 440mm.
What are the different systems in the MiniMax Range?
The MiniMax M2
The MiniMax M2 Water Softener is the older generation and is equivalent to the Harvey TwinTec Series 3 and the Harvey HV3 water softener. They are older systems and no longer manufactured. Replaced by the MiniMax M3.
The MiniMax M3
The M3 Water Softener is identical to the TwinTec S4 and HV4. These softeners are some of the latest Harvey models.
The MiniMax Major
The MiniMax Major is comparable to the TwinTec XL1 and XL2. They are larger water softeners and are suitable for homes with 4–5+ bathrooms. (Note: the TwinTec XL1 uses block salt).
A Quick Timeline:
1 The Minimax M2:
Released over a decade ago, a twin tank block salt softener designed for smaller households. While effective, it lacked some of the efficiency and flow-rate improvements.
2 The Minimax M3:
The M3 features updated internals and better flow capacity (up to 56L/min), making it suitable for homes with 1–3 bathrooms. Same design but better efficiency.
3 The Minimax M3:
The M3 features updated internals and better flow capacity (up to 56L/min), making it suitable for homes with 1–3 bathrooms. Same design but better efficiency.
4Minimax Inova
The latest model produced in 2020. This model has almost the same technical speification as the M3, with added smart phone technology and curved salt features.
What Are The Different Systems in the TwinTec Range?
The TwinTec S3
The TwinTec S3 is identical to the MiniMax M2 and the Harvey HV3 water softener. They are older systems that are no longer manufactured.
The TwinTec S4
The TwinTec Series 4 Water Softener is identical to the M3 and HV4. These softeners have some of the latest technology.
The Harvey TwinTec XL1 & 2
The TwinTec XL1 and XL2 are identical to the MiniMax Major. They are large water softeners designed for larger homes with up to 5+ bathrooms.
A Quick Timeline:
1Launch of the TwinTec S2
A compact twin-cylinder water softener designed to be sold via plumbing merchants and directly to consumers, avoiding dealer contracts.
22016 - Release of the TwinTec S3
Improvements include quieter operation and enhanced resin regeneration. No longer available to purchase.
32020 — Launch of the TwinTec S4
More updates and an upgraded specification. The spec was so good - even the newer S5, kept the same flow rate and efficiency.
4Cobalt and S5
The latest model produced in 2020 is the Cobalt. This model has almost the same spec as the previous model, with added smart phone technology and curved salt features.
MiniMax Technical Specifications
| Specification | MiniMax M3 | MiniMax Innova |
|---|---|---|
| System type | Non-electric, twin cylinder | Non-electric, twin cylinder |
| Salt type | Block salt | Mini Curve salt blocks |
| Maximum peak flow rate | 56 litres/min | 56 litres/min |
| Water per regeneration | 17 litres | 17 litres |
| Salt per regeneration | 300g | 300g |
| Regeneration time | 11 minutes | 11 minutes |
| Dimensions (H × W × D) | 490 × 206 × 445mm | 495 × 206 × 435mm |
| Water pressure | 1–10 bar | 1–10 bar |
| Softened water capacity | 3,000 litres/day at 300ppm hardness | 3,000 litres/day at 300ppm hardness |
| Parts guarantee | 10 years | 10 years |
What is the Price of a MiniMax Water Softener?
Because the Minimax is usually solf offline as part of a dealer network - prices online can be hard to find.
These models are usually included within an installation package - and the price of this can really vary.
For online only we found Sterling Sofeners selling the MiniMax M3 for £1,600.00 (over £400 more than TwinTec) Aquasoft marketing the Innova at £2,270.00 online. Sandy's Salt has the system at £1,782.00 (over £100 ore than the TwinTec equivalent).
Pros & Cons of Choosing a MiniMax-Branded Water Softener
Pros of the MiniMax M3
- 10-Year Warranty Often provided through the authorised MiniMax dealer network.
- Harvey Resin Technology Uses Harvey's dual-cylinder water-softening technology.
- Quiet, Efficient Operation Requires no electricity and is designed for UK plumbing systems.
- Compact Design Designed to fit under kitchen sinks, making it suitable for many homes with one to three bathrooms.
Cons of the MiniMax M3
- Higher Price Costs more than the comparable TwinTec S4 when purchased online.
- Limited Online Availability Dealer-led sales can make it harder to compare prices and purchase directly online.
- Installation Bundles Packages include installation in the overall price, which may not suit customers who do not need it.
-
Less Transparent Pricing You may need to request a quote to establish the final price.
Real Forum Feedback on Harvey, MiniMax and TwinTec
What are real customers saying about the similarities between these water softeners, their pricing and their warranties?
“The Harveys HV3, MiniMax M3, and TwinTec S4 are all the same, as previously mentioned... I am going MiniMax for the 10 year guarantee...”
“I wouldn’t bother going with Harvey’s. Better to go and get the Twintec version which is essentially the exact same machine rebranded. I saved around £400 doing that.”
“Harvey are definitely worth it but you can get cheaper models like the Harvey TwinTec S4. Basically most of the softeners have the same interior and specification...”
“The Harveys HV3, MiniMax M3, and TwinTec S4 are all the same...”
Forum comments reflect individual users’ opinions and experiences.
Summary
The MiniMax M3 is identical to the Twintec S4 – so we suggest comparing the prices of each system to get the best value for money.
Both models have the same high-quality specifications with the most efficient low salt and water usage.
If you are looking for the best Harvey Water Softener and most effective option – the TwinTec water softener model is the better choice because it is a lot more cost-effective – don’t pay more than you have to.
Need help choosing still?
Contact us for advice on the right Harvey-built softener for your home.
