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“I can’t believe the difference this has made to my son’s eczema. Within weeks of installing the S4, we were using fewer creams and his skin felt so much calmer.”
— Lisa, North Yorkshire
TwinTec Water Softener Review
Harvey TwinTec Review Pros & Cons
The Harvey TwinTec S4 is one of Harvey’s most popular domestic water softeners. In this review guide we do a deep dive on this model, so you can make the best decision for your home.
Why Choose a Harvey Water System?
The Harvey brand is the UK and London’s leading water softener company. After inventing the twin-cylinder machine, Harvey now sells and manufactures some of the most efficient systems on the market.
There are many reviews of Harvey online suggesting they provide some of the best after care, with machines that are built to last 10-20 years.
Previous Models
When researching Harvey water softeners, you may have come across several different models. We know this can be confusing - because many of the systems seem to be similar. But that’s why we have created a guide to help you navigate all of the different models available. Click below to view.
When it comes to different systems, all you need to know is Harvey products are sold via a series of different sales channels, including their own retail, online dealers and offline dealers.
- TwinTec - sold via dealers online and offline.
- MiniMax - sold via dealers offline.
- Crown - generally a online product.
- Harvey Arc - Harvey retail only model.
Review Breakdown
This Harvey model has one of the most up-to-date specifications. When researching online, it is a well-reviewed water softener manufactured in the UK. When reviewing and comparing this system it is important to check and compare all of the specification points below.
Who is it Designed for?
For a family homes with 2-4 bathrooms and up to 6 people.
The specification criteria to compare
- Flow rate and pressure range
- Salt and water usage per regeneration
- Warranty and aftercare route
- Water hardness capacity
- HE or HF model suitability
- Installation route and total fitted cost
- Alternative options
Flow Rate and pressure The TwinTec has a high flow rate of 56L/min and pressure range of 1-10 Bar. Meaning it is suitable for all boiler types and heating systems. Why is this important? Because low flow rates can result in water pressure drops.
Salt Usage When searching online we found this model to use the lowest amount of salt at just 300g per regen.
Regeneration time This model regenerates quickly in 11 mins; however, being a twin tank, also means you’ll have a continuous soft water supply.
Type of System The TwinTec uses Non-electric operation, meaning no wiring and no running costs, it is automatic. It also is a block salt softener, making it simple to use, clean, and cost-efficient. .
TwinTec Warranty All TwinTec systems come with a 2-year labour and 10-year parts warranty. Not only that, but being part of the Harvey TwinTec family, you’ll get great aftercare should anything go wrong.
Water Used Veyr efficient at only 17L per regeneration.
Dimensions and Design
This water softener is one of the smallest available. A water softener is generally fitted near the stop tap, often in a cupboard underneath the kitchen sink, so its size is important to consider.
TwinTec S4 dimensions: 490mm high, 205mm wide and 440mm deep.
The TwinTec Series 4 Price
This TwinTec model is known to be one of the most affordable systems on the market. The specification is one of the best from Harvey and pricing around £1174.
Installation
The installation of a water softener is a relatively simple process for any plumber. It is about as difficult as installing a washing machine. A local plumber should be able to complete the job, using an installation kit in around 2-3 hours of a plumber's time. The time depends on the space and pipework.
Your main task is then to source a reliable plumber. If you don’t have or know a local plumber, you could try searching on Google or asking neighbours, family and friends. If a full installation package is what you are looking for - you may wish to contact a local TwinTec dealer to compare prices.
Maintenance & Costs
The S4 water softener doesn’t use electricity. Therefore, you won’t need to pay for energy to have it running. The only thing you have to do is replace the block salt, which is needed for the system to work. As far as water and salt usage go – the S4 is the most efficient model you can get, so your running costs will be at a minimum.
All water softeners require salt to work and the latest designs tend to use block salt. The S4 uses standard block salt, which can be sourced online from multiple websites, including us or Harvey direct.
This system holds 2 blocks of salt at any one time. The average usage of salt in the family home is 1 block per person per month.
An Alternative to This Model
Although models such as MiniMax and Kinetico are similar in specifications to this TwinTec system, they are not as cost-effective.
As experts in the industry, we have checked, and these models would be the only alternatives we can see that really compare to the TwinTec model.
A different option and downgrade would be the Crown - the Crown is a slightly cheaper model (but not by much) and is over 19 years old - meaning it won’t deliver the same performance or efficiency. It also comes with a shorter warranty. Click the links below if you want to read a comparison of the TwinTec with MiniMax or Crown.
Water hardness and model type
There are different gearings available for this model to make sure you get the best system for your water hardness; however, the S4 is generally built to tackle very hard water. You also don’t have to worry about choosing a different model for your boiler or heating system - this model suits all systems.
Where can you buy the TwinTec & are there promo codes?
Online you can buy the Twintec from NE water Softeners and a discount is available when you sign up. Note - The TwinTec range is a premium range that is distributed only by very few retailers in the UK.
Who shouldn't buy The TwinTec
You may want to consider another model if:
- You live alone in a small apartment.
- No cupboard or outdoor space.
- You want a system that uses app technology.
- You only have temporary accommodation.
Is the TwinTec worth it?
We think the TwinTec is definitely worth the cost. It is a non-electric, twin-cylinder softener built in the UK and designed to last. In fact, coming with a 10-year manufacturer warranty is a great indicator that this system can last a life time with many customers reporting it lasting well beyond 15+ years with minimal servicing.
This system may also actually save you money in the long run by reducing costs on:
- Cleaning sprays and descalers.
- Shampoo, conditioner, soap and laundry products.
- Heating and energy bills (due to more efficient boilers).
- Replacement appliances and plumbing repairs caused by limescale.
- But it’s not just about annual savings — it’s about long-term value and everyday convenience.
TwinTec S4 Pros and Cons
The S4 has one of the most appealing specifications when compared to any domestic system on the market! You can view the full spec on our product page by clicking here.
Pros and Advantages of TwinTec S4
- Type of system: Non-electric, which is better and more efficient than an electric system.
- High flow rate: Designed for any boiler system.
- High efficiency: Uses low levels of salt and water.
- 10-year warranty: Includes a 10-year warranty.
- Automatic and no programming: Operates automatically without programming.
- Cost-effective: A cost-effective option.
Cons and Limitations of TwinTec S4
- No smart technology: No automated app or smartphone technology.
- Price can vary: Prices can vary depending on the dealer.
Real Customer Feedback & Testimonials
The below are juat some examples taken from real reviews made about the Harvey TwinTec Softener, which can be found on the product page.
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“We had awful limescale in our kettle and on our shower screens. After a month with the TwinTec S4, it’s like it never existed.”
— Mark, Durham
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“As someone with dry, itchy skin and hard water hair issues — this softener was a game-changer. My skin feels hydrated again!”
— Sophie, York
What Reddit Users Are Saying
But don't just take our customer's word for it - check out reddit and what reddit users across the UK have to say.
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“The Twintec softener was here … It developed a fault … the installer basically rebuilt it all free of charge under the 10-year warranty … Other than that it just does the job.”
Source: Reddit discussion
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“The Twintec S4 at £1174 seems like a much better deal.”
Source: Reddit discussion
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“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.”
Source: Reddit discussion
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“I would go for a non-electric twin tank and something like the Harvey TwinTec S4 … it has a good efficiency and 10 year warranty.”
Source: Reddit discussion
Still need help?
If you still need help choosing the best model for you - contact us for model advice or click chat now.