Puretec SOL30-E3 Water Softener System
The Puretec SOL30-E3 is a WaterMark approved domestic water softener designed to reduce hardness minerals and the scale and spotting associated with hard water.
Puretec combines a 30 L/min service flow rate with its Volumetric E3-matic valve, which monitors water use and manages regeneration according to the programmed water conditions and system demand.
The SOL30-E3 is a genuine regenerating water softener rather than a salt-free scale-control cartridge. It uses softening media, water-softener salt, electrical power and a drain connection as part of normal operation.
Puretec SOL30-E3 Key Details
*Puretec bases the 12,000 litre capacity figure on incoming hardness of 100 ppm. Practical capacity between regeneration cycles changes with actual hardness and system settings.
Reduce Hardness Minerals & Scale
Hard water contains dissolved minerals, particularly calcium and magnesium, which can contribute to scale deposits and spotting around water-using fixtures and equipment.
The SOL30-E3 uses ion-exchange softening media to reduce these hardness minerals before the treated water continues through the property.
Hardness Reduction
Puretec specifies the SOL30-E3 for reducing calcium, magnesium and minerals associated with hard water.
Scale Reduction
Reducing hardness can reduce scale formation within compatible downstream plumbing and water-using equipment.
Spotting Reduction
Puretec lists reduced scaling and spotting among the functions of its Softrol™ water-softening systems.
Different From a Salt-Free AntiScale System
The SOL30-E3 is designed to reduce water hardness using ion-exchange media.
When the softening media reaches its programmed treatment capacity, the system regenerates using brine made from water-softener salt. The regeneration process restores the media so it can continue reducing hardness.
This is different from cartridge-based scale-control media, which can help manage scale formation without removing hardness minerals through ion exchange.
Volumetric Regeneration Based on Water Use
Puretec's E3-matic valve monitors water consumption and uses the programmed water conditions to determine when regeneration is needed.
Puretec states that if water is not being used, the E3 system does not simply backwash unnecessarily. When regeneration is required, the control system calculates the cycle around water volume used and the programmed water quality information.
- Volumetric electronic control valve
- Monitors water consumption
- Programmed using incoming water conditions
- Automatic regeneration
- Designed to regenerate according to treatment demand
- Electronic control panel for system setup
12,000 Litres at 100 ppm Hardness
Puretec currently lists the SOL30-E3 with a nominal capacity of 12,000 litres based on water hardness of 100 ppm.
That does not mean every installation will treat exactly 12,000 litres between regeneration cycles. Harder incoming water consumes the resin's working capacity more quickly.
Check the Water Before Installing the Softener
Puretec's current SOL-E3 installation guide includes an installation record for incoming water conditions including:
- Hardness
- Iron
- Manganese
- pH
- Total dissolved salts
- Conductivity
- Chloride
- Sodium
Puretec notes that its softeners are designed to reduce hardness and can handle reasonable amounts of soluble iron where the iron content is considered during model selection and regeneration setup.
The SOL30-E3 Uses Water-Softener Salt
The SOL30-E3 is not a salt-free treatment system.
Water-softener salt is used during regeneration to restore the ion-exchange media after hardness minerals have been captured.
Maximum Salt Storage
Puretec's current SOL-E3 guide lists a maximum salt storage capacity of approximately 50 kg.
Ongoing Maintenance
The salt level needs to be checked and replenished as required. Consumption varies with hardness, water use and regeneration frequency.
Puretec Recommends Carbon Pre-Filtration
Puretec lists a free-chlorine tolerance of 1 ppm for the softening resin.
The manufacturer warns that high chlorine levels can permanently damage the resin and recommends a carbon pre-filter when chlorine exceeds this level.
Puretec also recommends carbon pre-filtration more generally to help protect the softener against chlorine spikes and prolong resin service life.
Install the Softener Before the Water Heater
Puretec specifies that the water softener should be installed in the water supply line before the water heater.
The system should also be positioned as close as practical to a suitable drain while retaining enough access for servicing, control-valve access and salt replenishment.
- Install before the water heater
- Position near suitable drainage
- Provide a firm and level supporting surface
- Provide a non-switched electrical supply
- Protect from freezing
- Provide service access around the unit
Puretec SOL30-E3 Technical Details
| Specification | Puretec SOL30-E3 |
|---|---|
| Model | SOL30-E3 |
| Product Type | Softrol™ volumetric domestic water softener |
| Valve | Volumetric E3-matic |
| Service Flow Rate | 30 L/min |
| Nominal Capacity | 12,000 litres based on 100 ppm hardness |
| Operating Pressure | 138–862 kPa |
| Pressure Limiting | Approved pressure limiting device required where line pressure exceeds 500 kPa |
| Operating Temperature | 0–48°C; protect from freezing |
| Electrical Connection | 240V / 50 Hz |
| Inlet / Outlet Connection | 25 mm |
| Drain Connection | 5/8" |
| Overflow Connection | 5/8" |
| Width | 350 mm |
| Height | 1125 mm |
| Depth | 490 mm |
| Dry Weight | 29 kg |
| Maximum Salt Storage | 50 kg |
| WaterMark | WaterMark approved |
| Replacement Media Kit | RMK-SOL30 |
Allow Space for the Full-Size Softener Cabinet
The SOL30-E3 is not an under-sink drinking-water filter. It is a full-size point-of-entry softener requiring dedicated installation space.
Allow additional room for plumbing, electrical connection, drain and overflow lines, control-valve access and salt replenishment.
138–862 kPa Operating Pressure
Puretec lists an operating pressure range of 138–862 kPa for the SOL-E3 series.
Where line pressure exceeds 500 kPa, the manufacturer requires an approved pressure limiting device to comply with applicable Australian and New Zealand plumbing requirements.
Electronic Control Requires Electricity
Puretec's current SOL-E3 user guide lists an electrical connection of 240V / 50 Hz.
The installation instructions specify a non-switched power source for the control valve so the E3-matic system can monitor water use and operate its regeneration cycles.
Regeneration Requires Drain & Overflow Connections
The SOL30-E3 regenerates its treatment media and therefore requires permanent drainage.
Puretec's current SOL-E3 guide lists a 5/8" drain connection and a separate 5/8" overflow connection.
Point-of-Entry Installation Requirements Matter
Puretec's current guide states that installation should be completed by qualified tradespeople and that plumbing must comply with applicable local requirements.
For point-of-entry installations, Puretec also specifies an approved backflow prevention device.
- Qualified installation
- 25 mm water connections
- Suitable drainage
- Overflow provision
- Suitable pressure control where required
- Approved backflow prevention for point-of-entry use
A Water Softener Is Not a Complete Filtration System
The SOL30-E3 is designed primarily for hardness reduction.
- It is not a sediment cartridge filter
- It is not a carbon filter for chlorine, taste or odour
- It is not a UV treatment system
- It is not a reverse-osmosis system
- It does not replace suitable upstream filtration where required
- It should not be described as universal contaminant treatment
When the SOL30-E3 May Be Suitable
- Your incoming water has measurable hardness
- You want genuine hardness reduction
- A 30 L/min service flow rate suits the property
- You prefer volumetric regeneration based on water usage
- You can provide drainage and overflow connections
- A suitable electrical supply is available
- You have room for the full-size cabinet
- You are prepared to maintain the salt supply
Choose the E3 Model Around Flow & Capacity
| Feature | SOL30-E3 | SOL40-E3 |
|---|---|---|
| Valve | Volumetric E3-matic | Volumetric E3-matic |
| Service Flow | 30 L/min | 40 L/min |
| Nominal Capacity | 12,000 L at 100 ppm hardness | 18,000 L at 100 ppm hardness |
| Inlet / Outlet | 25 mm | 25 mm |
| Dry Weight | 29 kg | 37 kg |
| Cabinet Dimensions | 1125 × 350 × 490 mm | 1125 × 350 × 490 mm |
Both models use volumetric E3-matic control. Choose between them using actual peak flow, incoming hardness and treatment demand rather than household labels alone.
Salt, Resin & System Condition Need Ongoing Attention
Salt Level
Check the brine compartment and replenish suitable water-softener salt as required.
Softening Media
Puretec lists the RMK-SOL30 replacement media kit for SOL30 systems.
Pre-Filtration
Where a whole-house pre-filter is installed, service its cartridges according to the applicable Puretec instructions.
Leaks
Regularly inspect accessible connections and the system for leakage or deterioration.
Hardness
Hardness testing can assist with initial programming and checking ongoing softener performance.
E3 Settings
Keep the control settings appropriate for the actual incoming hardness and installation conditions.
Accessories Listed for the SOL30-E3
WTV5000 Bypass Assembly
Optional bypass assembly for system testing and maintenance.
WTV5050 Blending Valve
Optional blending valve where partial hardness reduction is required.
PTE30 Hardness Test Kit
Puretec total-hardness titration kit for testing incoming or treated water.
WTV5090 Microswitch
Optional microswitch assembly for compatible external equipment automation.
SS5000 SoftenerSafe
Puretec SoftenerSafe media accessory for compatible maintenance applications.
RMK-SOL30
Puretec replacement media kit specifically listed for SOL30 systems.
Puretec SOL30-E3 Warranty
Puretec currently lists the SOL30-E3 with a 6-year warranty, structured as 1 year parts and labour plus 5 years parts only, excluding consumables and subject to Puretec's warranty conditions.
Puretec currently identifies qualifying pre-filter models including WH2-55, WH2-60, FilterWall F3, F4, F5 and F6.
Plan the SOL30-E3 Installation Before Ordering
- Test incoming water hardness and relevant water conditions
- Confirm 30 L/min service flow suits the property
- Provide suitable 25 mm water connections
- Provide a suitable drain
- Provide a suitable overflow connection
- Provide non-switched electrical power
- Allow approximately 1125 × 350 × 490 mm plus service clearance
- Provide space for salt replenishment
- Install pressure limiting where required
- Consider suitable carbon pre-filtration
Choose How You Want to Order
Supply Only
Order the Puretec SOL30-E3 for delivery to supported Australian locations where you already have an appropriately qualified installer.
Add Pre-Filtration
Consider an appropriate Puretec whole-house sediment and carbon system where the incoming water requires filtration before the softener.
Supply & Installation
Professional installation may be available in eligible Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas, subject to plumbing, drainage, power, water conditions and site access.
Questions About the Puretec SOL30-E3
What Does the SOL30-E3 Do?
It is designed to reduce hardness minerals such as calcium and magnesium and reduce scale and spotting associated with hard water.
What Is the Service Flow Rate?
Puretec lists the SOL30-E3 at 30 litres per minute.
What Is the Capacity?
Puretec currently lists a nominal 12,000 litre capacity based on 100 ppm hardness. Actual capacity between regeneration cycles depends on incoming hardness.
What Does E3 Mean?
The E3 model uses Puretec's volumetric E3-matic control valve, which monitors water use and manages regeneration according to system demand and programmed water conditions.
Does It Regenerate Every Few Days?
There is no universal fixed number of days. Regeneration frequency depends on hardness, water consumption, system capacity and the programmed settings.
Does It Need Salt?
Yes. The SOL30-E3 is an ion-exchange softener and uses water-softener salt during regeneration.
How Much Salt Can It Hold?
Puretec's current SOL-E3 guide lists a maximum salt storage capacity of 50 kg.
Does It Need Electricity?
Yes. The current SOL-E3 user guide lists a 240V / 50 Hz electrical connection.
Does It Need a Drain?
Yes. Puretec lists a 5/8" drain connection and a separate 5/8" overflow connection.
Is It WaterMark Approved?
Yes. Puretec identifies the SOL30-E3 as a WaterMark approved water softener.
What Is the Operating Pressure?
Puretec lists an operating range of 138–862 kPa. An approved pressure limiting device is required where incoming line pressure exceeds 500 kPa.
What Are the Dimensions?
The current Puretec SOL-E3 guide lists approximately 1125 mm high × 350 mm wide × 490 mm deep.
How Much Does It Weigh?
Puretec lists the SOL30-E3 at approximately 29 kg dry weight.
Does It Remove Chlorine?
The SOL30-E3 is primarily a hardness-reduction system rather than a carbon chlorine filter. Puretec recommends suitable carbon pre-filtration to protect the resin from chlorine.
What Is the Chlorine Tolerance?
Puretec lists a free-chlorine tolerance of 1 ppm and warns that higher chlorine levels can permanently damage the softening resin.
What Replacement Media Does It Use?
Puretec lists the RMK-SOL30 replacement media kit for SOL30 water softeners.
Supply the Genuine Puretec System, Add Installation Where Required
Supply Only Available
Purchase the Puretec SOL30-E3 without installation where you already have an appropriately qualified installer.
Manufacturer-Based Specifications
Flow, capacity, dimensions, pressure, salt, drainage and pre-filtration requirements are matched to current Puretec product information.
Installation Capability
Installed Today can also support eligible local installations where water conditions, plumbing, drainage, power and site access are suitable.
Is the Puretec SOL30-E3 Right for Your Property?
The Puretec SOL30-E3 Softrol™ Water Softener is designed for properties requiring genuine hardness reduction with a service flow rate of up to 30 L/min.
It uses Puretec's Volumetric E3-matic valve, has a nominal 12,000 litre capacity at 100 ppm hardness, requires salt, power, drainage and overflow provision, and measures approximately 1125 × 350 × 490 mm. Puretec lists the dry weight at 29 kg and maximum salt storage at 50 kg.
Before ordering, test the incoming hardness and other relevant water conditions, confirm 30 L/min is appropriate for the property's demand, provide suitable 25 mm plumbing, drainage and electrical supply, and consider Puretec carbon pre-filtration to protect the softening resin. Where greater service flow and softening capacity are required, the SOL40-E3 provides the corresponding 40 L/min volumetric option.
Buying a new hot water system, water filter, pump or plumbing product should be simple. Installed Today helps you compare the product, the supply-only price and the available installation options in one place, so you can choose what suits your home, budget and timing without the back and forth.
Whether you already know exactly what you need or you are still comparing options, we make it easier to order with confidence.
Why Customers Choose Installed Today
Supply Only or Installed Options
Choose the product on its own, or add installation where available. This gives you the flexibility to buy the way that suits you best.
Clear Pricing Before Checkout
See your product price upfront, then add the installation options or common extras you need before placing your order. No confusing quote forms just to understand your starting price.
Product Details That Actually Help
Key specs, sizing details, warranty information, product features and suitability notes are shown clearly, so you can compare products properly before you buy.
Installation Add-Ons Available
Where relevant, you can add common installation extras such as valve kits, bases, electrical options, removal, access-related items or other site-specific upgrades before checkout.
Built Around Brisbane and Gold Coast Homes
Our product and installation options are selected with common local homes, water quality, plumbing layouts, access issues and replacement requirements in mind.
One Simple Order
Add the product and selected extras to cart in one order, instead of trying to organise separate suppliers, installers and parts.
Practical Help Before You Buy
Not sure which product, size or installation option is right? Installed Today gives you a clearer path to choosing the right system before you order.
Designed To Make Your Decision Easier
Installed Today is built for customers who want a faster, clearer and more convenient way to buy.
Instead of guessing what is included, waiting for basic pricing or trying to work out which extras are needed, you can review the product, compare your options and move forward with confidence.
Choose supply only if you just need the product.
Choose supplied and installed if you want the product installed where available.
Add common extras before checkout if your job needs additional parts or site-specific options.
It is a simpler way to organise the product and the parts of the job that matter most.
Important Note
Installation availability, inclusions and add-ons vary by product type, site access, existing services, selected options and your property requirements. Some installations may require additional work, upgrades or checks before the job can proceed.
Fast & Reliable Delivery – What to Expect
Same Day Delivery: Available in Brisbane and Gold Coast on select units ordered before 8:00am
Express Delivery: 1–4 business days
Standard Delivery: 2–8 business days
Same Day Delivery
Same day delivery is available for selected hot water systems in Brisbane and Gold Coast metro areas when ordered before 8:00am, subject to stock availability, delivery capacity and suitable transport conditions.
Fast Metro Delivery
Most hot water orders in metro areas are delivered quickly, with around 90% arriving within 1 business day.
Weather Delays
Hot water systems cannot always be transported safely by courier during rain. Delivery timeframes may be affected when wet weather impacts safe handling, loading, unloading or transport conditions.
Express Delivery Guarantee
If your express delivery order takes longer than 1–4 business days, we will adjust the delivery timeframe to our standard 2–8 business days and refund your express shipping charge automatically.
Order Tracking
We will send your delivery details as soon as your order has been dispatched.
Need help with your delivery? Contact our team and we’ll be happy to assist.
Poor water pressure? why not pair with a new pump
View allWater Filter Guides & Advice
Helpful Installed Today guides covering whole home water filtration, drinking water filters, under-sink systems, reverse osmosis, Puretec filters and water quality.
Water Tap Filters: How to Choose the Right Filter for Cleaner Drinking Water