
The Hague HC3: Engineered for Superior Water Treatment
The Hague HC3 is more than a conventional water softener; it is an advanced, intelligent home water filtration system designed to adapt to your household’s water consumption patterns, effectively resolve complex water problems, and operate seamlessly in the background.
Most conventional “off-the-shelf” filters or basic softeners are designed to address only one or two of these issues. They might soften water or filter out some sediment, but rarely offer a holistic solution tailored to your home’s exact water chemistry. This inadequacy allows ongoing damage to your plumbing infrastructure, appliances, and overall peace of mind.
This is precisely where the Hague Hydroclean HC3 Series distinguishes itself. As a premier offering within our curated selection of water solutions, it represents a significant advancement in comprehensive home water treatment.
Understanding Your Water: A Deep Dive into Home Water Quality
Hello, Brian McCowin here. For over five decades, since 1972, McCowin Water has been dedicated to providing families across Orange County; from Irvine to Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Huntington Beach, Dana Point, Anaheim, and Tustin; with truly clean, soft, and safe water. Our extensive experience has given us unparalleled insight into local water conditions and the specific challenges homeowners face.
Many homeowners remain unaware of their water quality until visible issues arise. These common indicators are often symptoms of underlying problems:
- Persistent white spots and film on dishes and glassware.
- Unsightly rust stains in sinks, toilets, and showers.
- Unpleasant odors, such as chlorine or a “rotten egg” smell.
- Dry, itchy skin and dull hair after showering.
- Premature breakdown and reduced efficiency of water-using appliances.
However, a critical truth often goes unaddressed: By the time these visible problems manifest, significant, often costly, damage to your plumbing, appliances, and even your health may already be occurring.
Furthermore, many generic “solutions” available on the market are not engineered to address the complex water profiles found in Orange County, particularly for homes relying on groundwater or well sources. This page aims to provide comprehensive, fact-based information and guide you toward a truly effective home water filtration system designed to meet your specific needs.
The true challenge with water quality often lies in what you cannot see. Homeowners in Orange County, from Mission Viejo to Lake Forest and Irvine, frequently contend with a range of contaminants:
- Hard Minerals: Calcium and magnesium ions are prevalent, leading to limescale buildup, reduced soap efficacy, and appliance damage.
- Sediment and Iron: Especially common in well water, these can cause discoloration, staining, and affect taste.
- Sulfur Compounds: Responsible for the distinct “rotten egg” odor, indicating the presence of hydrogen sulfide gas.
- Chlorine and Chloramines: Used for disinfection in municipal water, these can impart unpleasant tastes and odors, and may contribute to skin and hair dryness.
- Acidity (Low pH): Corrosive water can leach metals from pipes, leading to plumbing damage and potential health concerns.
- Hidden Metals: Trace amounts of heavy metals can be present, posing long-term health risks.
The first step to superior water quality is understanding what’s flowing through your pipes. Schedule your complimentary, no-obligation water analysis today. Ready to uncover your water’s true story?
Call us at (949) 569-5736 or schedule your free water test today.
The McCowin Water Guarantee: If the system we install doesn’t perform the way we promised… If your water doesn’t taste, feel, or behave the way we said it would… We’ll pull the whole system out. And either replace it or refund you. No fine print. Because your trust is worth more than the sale.
CSLB: C-55 #1022717

The HC3 Advantage: Who Benefits from Advanced Water Filtration?
Key Features and Benefits
This comprehensive guide is particularly relevant for:
- Homeowners in Orange County or Southern California (e.g., Irvine, Laguna Niguel, Costa Mesa, San Clemente) experiencing water quality issues.
- Individuals observing tangible signs of hard water damage, such as mineral buildup, stains, unusual odors, or skin irritation.
- Those frustrated by water that appears clean but consistently causes problems within the home.
- Homeowners seeking a reliable and trustworthy company for the installation of a robust home water filtration system.
- Anyone ready to invest in long-term protection for their home and family, provided the solution is both effective and economically sound.
The Hydroclean HC3 system incorporates several patented technologies and robust design elements to deliver exceptional performance:
- Smart Controller (Patented Valve & Digital Dual-mode Controller): Unlike timer-based systems, the HC3’s intelligent controller monitors actual water usage, optimizing regeneration cycles. This precision minimizes salt and water waste, ensuring peak efficiency. The built-in bypass allows for high-volume water use (e.g., lawn watering) without affecting the treated water supply. It also protects settings during power outages and allows regeneration based on time or water volume.
- Optimized Brining (Special Brining): The system’s unique brining process utilizes salt and water more efficiently than standard softeners, leading to significant operational savings and enhanced performance.
- Durable Construction (Strong Build): Featuring rust-resistant tanks and high-quality components, the HC3 is built for longevity, safeguarding your investment for many years.
- Self-Cleaning Mechanism: Eliminates the need for manual filter changes, providing a truly maintenance-free experience and consistent water quality.
- Quiet Operation: Engineered for minimal noise, the system operates discreetly, ensuring it integrates seamlessly into your home environment.
- High Capacity Tank with Gravel Bed: A generous resin depth ensures extended water contact time, maximizing the removal of hardness minerals and other contaminants. The gravel bed promotes consistent water flow throughout the media tank, enhancing efficiency.
- Low Power Consumption: Designed for energy efficiency, the HC3 delivers superior water treatment without significantly impacting your electricity bill.
- 10-Year Limited Warranty: Comprehensive warranty coverage provides peace of mind, protecting against manufacturing defects and material failures.
This integrated approach results in a home water filtration system that is not only smarter and cleaner but also specifically engineered to address the multifaceted water challenges faced by homeowners.
Models Tailored to Your Specific Water Profile
Recognizing that every home’s water is unique, the HC3 series offers specialized models. Our approach is akin to an “automall” for water systems – we provide diverse options to perfectly match your needs:
- HC3105: An excellent choice for general water softening in most residential applications, effectively removing hardness minerals.
- HC321F: Specifically designed to combat iron and iron bacteria, which can cause staining and unpleasant metallic tastes.
- HC31CF: Incorporates an activated carbon filter to effectively remove chlorine, chloramines, and other organic compounds responsible for bad tastes and odors.
- HC31NF: Engineered to neutralize acidic water, protecting your plumbing from corrosion and preventing the leaching of metals.
Our process always begins with a thorough water analysis. Based on these precise findings, we recommend the HC3 system that is optimally configured for your home – ensuring a targeted, effective, and transparent solution.
Transformative Benefits: Problems Solved by the HC3 System
Upon installation of your HC3 system, you will observe a profound transformation in your home’s water quality and its impact on daily life:
- Spotless Surfaces: Enjoy impeccably clean dishes, sparkling glassware, and shiny fixtures, free from mineral spots.
- Enhanced Personal Care: Experience noticeably softer skin and silkier hair, as hard minerals and chlorine are removed.
- Extended Fabric Life: Clothes will feel softer, retain their color longer, and require less detergent due to the absence of harsh minerals.
- Elimination of Stains: Say goodbye to rust stains in toilets and sinks, and the unpleasant “rotten egg” or chlorine odors.
- Appliance Longevity and Efficiency: Water heaters, dishwashers, washing machines, and other water-using appliances will operate more efficiently, last longer, and require fewer repairs due to the prevention of scale buildup.
- Quieter Plumbing: Reduced mineral buildup can lead to fewer strange noises and improved flow within your plumbing system.
This is the hallmark of a truly effective home water filtration system – it doesn’t merely mitigate problems; it fundamentally eliminates them, enhancing your home environment and quality of life.
The Hidden Costs of Untreated Water
Without proper water filtration and softening, your household incurs significant, often unseen, expenses:
- Recurring Purchases: Hundreds of dollars annually spent on bottled water, pitcher filters, and specialized cleaning products to combat hard water effects.
- Premature Appliance Failure: Hard water scale and corrosion drastically shorten the lifespan of expensive appliances like water heaters, washing machines, and dishwashers, leading to costly replacements.
- Increased Product Consumption: More soap, shampoo, conditioner, and laundry detergent are required to achieve desired results in hard water.
- Plumbing Deterioration: Mineral buildup and corrosive water can damage pipes, leading to reduced flow, leaks, and expensive repairs.
- Persistent Frustration: The ongoing inconvenience and dissatisfaction with poor water quality take a toll on your peace of mind.
These costs accumulate year after year. A smart home water filtration system like the Hague HC3 is an investment that pays for itself by preventing these hidden expenses and delivering tangible savings over time.
Call us at (949) 569-5736 or schedule your free water test today.

Why Homeowners Consistently Choose McCowin Water
Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is reflected in the experiences of our clients across Orange County:
“McCowin Water, Inc. is the KING of whole house water softening and purified drinking water solutions. They are knowledgeable and their technicians are very pleasant and really know their craft! I highly recommend this company if your contemplating on installing one for your home or business!” — Marlo, Irvine
“We found McCowin Water through Lowes and are very pleased with both the service and the product. Brian McCowin came out to our house and essentially gave us a presentation on the available products and benefits of each. We had A LOT of questions and Brian made himself available to answer all of them.We chose our product and were able to get installation completed within a week. Our drinking water is better (for us and our two dogs), there are no more hard water stains on our dishes, sink fixtures, shower doors, etc. and showers feel amazing.We are saving money on bottled water and our appliances are more efficient. Overall, we are extremely satisfied and would recommend this company and their products. Thanks Brian!” — Kathryn, Anaheim Hills
“We had a water softener and reverse osmosis drinking filter installed by McCowin a couple years back, and we highly recommend them. They were very friendly and honest during our initial consultation, and explained all of the options available to choose from.Since then, they’ve always responded very quickly to any questions we had and with scheduling maintenance. Brian, the owner, was even able to squeeze us in on very short notice to take care of an urgent request we had. Great company, and our water tastes so much better now!” — Brian, Laguna Woods
We pride ourselves on installing home water filtration systems that generate genuine satisfaction and positive referrals. This dedication has been the cornerstone of our growth since 1972, reinforcing our commitment to never recommend a system you don’t genuinely need.
The McCowin Water Difference: Trust and Expertise Since 1972
In a crowded market of water treatment providers, McCowin Water stands apart. Our distinguishing principles, which have earned the trust of families from Aliso Viejo to Huntington Beach since 1972, include:
- Data-Driven Solutions: We initiate every engagement with a thorough water test, providing objective data rather than a pre-determined sales pitch.
- Local Expertise: As a company based in Irvine, Orange County, we possess an intimate understanding of the specific geological and municipal water characteristics of the region.
- Independent Specialists: We are not a franchise. We operate as independent water specialists, offering a diverse “automall” of leading water systems. This allows us to recommend the optimal system for *your* unique needs, not just push a single brand.
- Fact-Based Consultation: Our approach is grounded in scientific facts and transparent information, eschewing fear tactics.
- Unwavering Support: We are responsive to your inquiries and stand firmly behind every installation with the comprehensive McCowin Water Guarantee.
Our mission extends beyond merely “closing a deal.” We are dedicated to safeguarding your home, preserving your plumbing infrastructure, and ensuring your peace of mind with a home water filtration system that consistently performs.
CSLB: C-55 #1022717
Call us at (949) 569-5736 or schedule your free water test today.
The Process: Simple, Transparent, and Educational
Our commitment to clarity begins with a straightforward process:
- Complimentary Water Analysis: We conduct a thorough, free test of your home’s water.
- Data-Driven Insights: We present the scientific data, clearly explaining what contaminants are present and their potential implications.
- Tailored Solutions: Only if a solution is genuinely beneficial for your specific water profile, we will walk you through customized options.
- Empowered Decision-Making: You retain complete control to make an informed decision, free from pressure or gimmicks.
Our goal is to provide facts, clear answers, and expert assistance, empowering you to choose the best path for your home’s water quality.
Call us at (949) 569-5736 or schedule your free water test today.
Hague Hydroclean HC3 Softener: Detailed Specifications and Features
The following information is derived directly from Hague Hydroclean HC3 softener product graphics, providing a comprehensive overview of its capabilities and design.
HYDROCLEAN® SOFTENER: The HC3 Advantage Explained
Water containing hardness minerals presents a persistent challenge that, if left unaddressed, can lead to significant long-term problems. The Hague Hydroclean HC3 system offers an elegant and economical solution, delivering soft water through advanced, low-voltage technology.
Built with the same commitment to quality construction as Hague’s premium softeners, the Hydroclean HC3 is engineered for dependability and minimal maintenance. It effectively shields your hair, skin, and valuable appliances from the detrimental effects of hard water. Furthermore, for homes utilizing groundwater, which often contains hardness, iron, unpleasant tastes and odors, and various dissolved impurities, the Hydroclean HC3 provides a comprehensive treatment, ensuring clean, soft water at an economical operational cost.
Key benefits of the HC3 system include:
- Reduced Mineral Buildup: Protects hair and skin from the drying and irritating effects of hard water.
- Minimized Residue: Ensures cleaner dishes and cutlery, eliminating unsightly spots and film.
- Preserved Fabric Quality: Clothes maintain their softness and color vibrancy for longer, reducing wear and tear.
- Extended Appliance Life: Prevents scale accumulation, thereby preserving the efficiency and lifespan of water-using appliances.
The system is backed by a 10 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY, reflecting Hague Quality Water International’s commitment to excellence.
SYSTEM FEATURES: Experience the Soft Water Difference
The Hague HC3 system incorporates several innovative features designed for optimal performance and user convenience:
- PATENTED VALVE: Features a built-in bypass mechanism, allowing you to direct untreated water to specific areas (e.g., for lawn watering) without interrupting the treated supply to your home.
- CONTROLLER: A sophisticated Digital Dual-mode controller provides real-time flow rate displays, safeguards your customized settings during power outages, and offers flexibility to schedule regeneration cycles based on either time intervals or actual water consumption.
- HIGH CAPACITY TANK: Designed with maximum resin depth, this tank ensures extended contact time between water and the softening media, leading to highly efficient hardness removal and optimized salt usage.
- GRAVEL BED: A strategically placed gravel bed within the media tank ensures consistent and uniform water flow, maximizing the effectiveness of the filtration process.
- LOW-MAINTENANCE BRINE TANK: This component stores salt, which is essential for creating the brine solution used during the regeneration phase of the softening process. Its design prioritizes ease of maintenance.
The HC3 models (25, 35, 48, 64, and 105) are DESIGNED AND TESTED IN THE USA and are certified by WQA according to CSA B483.1, ensuring adherence to rigorous quality and performance standards.
SPECIFICATIONS: Hague Hydroclean HC3 Series
The following table provides detailed technical specifications for various models within the Hague Hydroclean HC3 series, illustrating their capacity and operational parameters:
Five-Button Dual Mode Controller | HC3 25 | HC3 35 | HC3 48 | HC3 64 | HC3 105 |
Max Compensated Hardness | 60 gpg (1.0 g/L) | 90 gpg (1.5 g/L) | 110 gpg (1.9 g/L) | 120 gpg (2.2 g/L) | 130 gpg (2.2 g/L) |
Iron in solution–ppm | 2 ppm | 6 ppm | 8 ppm | 10 ppm | 11 ppm |
Minimum pH rated units | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
Capacity @ 2.5 lb. (1.14 kg) salt/cu.ft. (1 Salt Setting) | 12,900 grains (589 grams) | 17,500 grains (810 grams) | 21,000 grains (1106 grams) | 22,800 grains (1477 grams) | 37,600 grains (2436 grams) |
Capacity @ 3.8 lb. (1.7 kg) salt/cu.ft. (2 Salt Setting) | 16,170 grains (721 grams) | 22,030 grains (1104 grams) | 25,410 grains (1516 grams) | 27,900 grains (2021 grams) | 39,337 grains (3337 grams) |
Capacity @ 5.0 lb. (2.3 kg) salt/cu.ft. (3 Salt Setting) | 18,150 grains (824 grams) | 25,000 grains (1134 grams) | 28,500 grains (1750 grams) | 32,000 grains (2217 grams) | 42,650 grains (3540 grams) |
Capacity @ 6.0 lb. (2.7 kg) salt/cu.ft. (4 Salt Setting) | 19,200 grains (874 grams) | 26,900 grains (1767 grams) | 32,700 grains (2287 grams) | 37,000 grains (2540 grams) | 45,000 grains (5001 grams) |
Capacity @ 15 lb. (6.8 kg) salt/cu.ft. (5 Salt Setting) | 21,700 grains (984 grams) | 29,900 grains (1937 grams) | 40,800 grains (2438 grams) | 54,000 grains (3733 grams) | 58,900 grains (7041 grams) |
Salt/media amount | 40 lb. (0.02 cu. m.) | 60 lb. (0.03 cu. m.) | 1.5 cu.ft. (0.04 cu. m.) | 2.0 cu.ft. (0.06 cu. m.) | 3.3 cu.ft. (0.09 cu. m.) |
Water Pressure | 20–120 psi (1.4–8.3 bar) | 20–120 psi (1.4–8.3 bar) | 30–120 psi (1.4–8.3 bar) | 30–120 psi (1.4–8.3 bar) | 30–120 psi (1.8–8.3 bar) |
Water Temp (4–49°C) | 40–120°F (4–49°C) | 40–120°F (4–49°C) | 40–120°F (4–49°C) | 40–120°F (4–49°C) | 40–120°F (4–49°C) |
Flow Rate (15 psi drop) | 9 gpm (34 L/min) | 10 gpm (38 L/min) | 12 gpm (45 L/min) | 16 gpm (59 L/min) | 18.5 gpm (70 L/min) |
Pipe Size | 1″ | 1″ | 1″ | 1″ | 1″ |
Height | 48″ (122 cm) | 52″ (132 cm) | 58″ (147 cm) | 65″ (165 cm) | 68″ (175 cm) |
Floor space | 18″ x 27″ (46 x 69 cm) | 18″ x 28″ (46 x 71 cm) | 18″ x 29″ (46 x 74 cm) | 23″ x 36″ (56 x 91 cm) | 30″ x 38″ (76 x 97 cm) |
Brine or solution tank size | 20″ x 33″ (46 x 84 cm) | 20″ x 33″ (46 x 84 cm) | 20″ x 35″ (51 x 89 cm) | 24″ x 50″ (61 x 127 cm) | 24″ x 50″ (61 x 127 cm) |
Brine or solution tank capacity | 200 lb. (91 kg) | 200 lb. (91 kg) | 200 lb. (91 kg) | 400 lb. (181 kg) | 640 lb. (290 kg) |
* When iron is present in the raw water supply, regeneration frequency cannot exceed 96 hours. Additionally, a minimum salt setting of 7 lb (3.2 kg) per cubic foot of resin is required. ** Do not use standard 18-inch (45.7 cm) diameter brine tank with salt grid for salt settings less than 3 lb (1.4 kg).
Frequently Asked Questions About Water Filtration and the Hague Hydroclean HC3
1. How does the Hague Hydroclean HC3 system compare to regular water softeners?
The Hague Hydroclean HC3 system offers a significant advancement over conventional water softeners. While standard softeners primarily address hardness minerals (calcium and magnesium), the HC3 is engineered to tackle a broader spectrum of water quality issues, including sediment, chlorine, and iron, depending on the specific model. Its intelligent controller dynamically adjusts regeneration cycles based on actual water usage, leading to superior efficiency in salt and water consumption. Furthermore, its robust, self-cleaning design minimizes maintenance requirements, providing a comprehensive and truly clean water solution for homes, particularly those in regions like Orange County with diverse water challenges.
2. What are the definitive signs that I need a comprehensive water filtration system?
Key indicators suggesting the need for a robust water filtration system include visible white mineral spots on dishes and fixtures, persistent dryness or irritation of skin and hair after showering, noticeable unpleasant odors (e.g., chlorine, sulfur) emanating from your tap water, or the presence of rust stains in sinks and toilets. These symptoms are often indicative of elevated mineral content, chemical disinfectants, or other undesirable contaminants in your water supply. Addressing these issues with an appropriate filtration system can dramatically improve water quality and protect your home.
3. Is professional installation recommended for the Hague Hydroclean HC3 system?
While some individuals may possess the technical skills for self-installation, professional installation of the Hague Hydroclean HC3 system is strongly recommended. Certified professionals ensure proper system sizing, correct plumbing integration, and adherence to all local codes and regulations. Crucially, they can perform a detailed water analysis to precisely configure the system for your home’s unique water chemistry, guaranteeing optimal performance and preventing potential issues that could arise from improper setup.
4.What are the typical maintenance requirements for the Hague Hydroclean HC3 system?
The Hague Hydroclean HC3 system is designed for exceptionally low maintenance due to its self-cleaning capabilities and durable construction. The primary routine maintenance involves periodically checking and replenishing the salt levels in the brine tank. The smart controller autonomously manages regeneration cycles based on your household’s water consumption, minimizing manual intervention. However, an annual professional check-up is advisable to ensure all components are functioning optimally and to maintain peak efficiency.
5. What is the extent of the warranty coverage for the Hague Hydroclean HC3 system?
The Hague Hydroclean HC3 system is protected by a 10-year limited warranty. This warranty covers defects in manufacturing and materials, providing significant assurance regarding your investment. To ensure the validity of your coverage, it is essential to retain your warranty documentation and adhere to the recommended care and operational guidelines provided by the manufacturer.
6. How does the Hague Hydroclean HC3 system specifically enhance water taste and odor?
The Hague Hydroclean HC3 system significantly improves water taste and odor through its advanced filtration capabilities. Depending on the model and configuration, it effectively removes common culprits such as chlorine, chloramines, hydrogen sulfide (responsible for the “rotten egg” smell), and various organic compounds. By eliminating these contaminants, the system delivers drinking water with a clean, refreshing taste and ensures that water used for showering and bathing is free from unpleasant chemical or sulfurous odors.
7. Is the Hague Hydroclean HC3 system suitable for homes with well water sources?
Absolutely. The Hague Hydroclean HC3 system is particularly well-suited for homes relying on well water, which often presents unique and complex challenges such as high mineral content, sediment, iron, and bacterial contamination. Following a comprehensive well water test, we can customize the HC3 system with specific media and configurations (e.g., HC321F for iron removal) to effectively address these particular issues. This tailored approach ensures robust protection for your plumbing and appliances while providing your family with consistently clean, soft, and safe water.
Steps to Schedule Your Free Water Test with McCowin Water
If you are experiencing water quality issues or simply wish to ensure your home’s water is of the highest standard, scheduling a free water test is the crucial first step. Our process is designed for ease and transparency:
- Explore Our Website: Navigate through our McCowin Water website to explore our services and access the free water test offer.
- Complete the Inquiry Form: Provide your contact information and briefly describe any specific concerns you have regarding your water quality.
- Select Your Appointment: Choose a convenient date and time for one of our expert technicians to conduct the water analysis at your home.
- Receive Professional Water Testing: Our specialist will perform a comprehensive assessment of your water, evaluating for hardness, contaminants, and other relevant parameters.
- Review Detailed Results: Following the test, we will present and explain the findings, outlining the specific characteristics of your water and proposing tailored solutions.
- Make an Informed Decision: Empowered with clear data and expert recommendations, you can confidently decide on the optimal water treatment strategy for your home.
A Final Message from Brian McCowin
- Choosing a water treatment provider is a significant decision. You are entrusting a company with something that impacts every facet of your home – your family’s health, your food preparation, the longevity of your appliances, and the comfort of your skin and hair. This is a responsibility we at McCowin Water have never taken lightly, which is why, since 1972, we have prioritized clarity and integrity above all else.
- The Hague HC3 Series represents one of the most advanced and reliable systems we offer. It is a system I confidently recommend for my own home and frequently install for my family and friends.
- If you are ready to invest in superior water quality, robust home protection, and a system that delivers consistent performance – all backed by the unwavering McCowin Water Guarantee – then I invite you to connect with us.
Brian McCowin Owner, McCowin Water
Call us at (949) 569-5736 or schedule your free water test today.

