There are three types of automatic regenerating systems in most watersofteners. A electric timer, computer control, or mechanical water meter is used to measure water and initiate flushing and recharging of the system.

An electric timer, which is the most basic type, flushes and regenerates the system on a regular schedule. Soft Water is not available during recharging with this system.

A computer control monitors the amount of water used and when enough water travels through the mineral tank and resin to have depleted the sodium beads, the computer turns on the regeneration. With this system some soft water will be available during recharging.

The final control is a mechanical water meter used to measure water usage and initiate recharging. The mineral tank in this system is only recharged when necessary and has no electrical components. If this system is equipped with two mineral tanks, even when recharging, soft water is always available.