Hard water spots can ruin your vehicle’s finish and create a frustrating cleaning experience. After testing the CR Spotless Water Systems DIC-20, I found this deionized water system is a great solution. It helps you get a spotless finish without the need for towel drying.
This comprehensive review includes everything you need about this innovative car washing system.
Quick Summary & Key Takeaways
The CR Spotless DIC-20 is a portable deionized water filtration system that removes minerals from your water supply. It allows vehicles to air dry without leaving water spots. Perfect for car enthusiasts, RV owners, and anyone tired of post-wash water spots.
- Eliminates the need for towel drying with its “Wash, Rinse, and Walk Away” capability
- Produces approximately 300 gallons of spot-free water (varies based on your water quality)
- Mounted on a powder-coated, rust-resistant rolling cart for excellent portability
- Includes a TDS meter to monitor water purity levels
- Priced at approximately $439, with replacement resin cartridges being the main ongoing expense
What Is the CR Spotless Water Systems DIC-20?
The CR Spotless DIC-20 (Deionized Cart 20″) is a premium water filtration system manufactured by CR Spotless. It’s a veteran-owned small business that pioneered making deionized water technology accessible to homeowners.
This portable system effectively removes dissolved minerals from regular tap water that would otherwise cause spotting when dried on vehicle surfaces.
The system is made for home use but gives professional results. It is great for car lovers, RV owners, boaters, and anyone who wants to remove water spots easily without hand drying. With prices around $439, it’s positioned as a premium solution for those serious about vehicle care.
The Science Behind Spotless Washing
The CR Spotless system utilizes deionization technology—a method commonly used in laboratories to produce purified water on demand. The ion exchange process removes positive cations and negative anions as water flows through the resin-filled cartridges. These are dissolved mineral salts in the water.
This process transforms regular tap water into mineral-free, deionized water that dries spot-free on surfaces. The benefit is significant: you can wash your vehicle even in direct sunlight and let it air dry without worrying about water spots forming.
Technical Specifications
Core Specs
- Dimensions: 15″ L x 15″ W x 38″ H.
- Weight: 50 pounds.
- Water Output Capacity: Approximately 300 gallons of deionized water (varies with input water quality).
- Flow Rate: Compatible with standard garden hose pressure.
- Filter Type: Ion exchange resin cartridges (two 20-inch deionization housings).
- Mounting: Powder-coated, rust-resistant rolling cart.
Included Components
- A portable 20″ deionized water system.
- A TDS meter.
- A stainless steel inlet hose.
- A filter wrench.
- A spray nozzle.
- Two pre-filled filter cartridges.
- An instruction manual.
Water Quality Monitoring
The system includes a Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) meter that measures the mineral content in the water. For optimal results, the CR Spotless system should produce water with 0 ppm (parts per million) TDS. However, most users report no spotting issues, even with 1-20 ppm readings.
What Makes It Unique? Features & Innovations
Deionization Technology for Everyday Use
CR Spotless was the first to offer deionization technology to homeowners. This technology was mainly used by detailers, car washes, and solar/window cleaners. They made it affordable, compact, and portable. The technology eliminates the need for towel drying, saving time and preventing swirl marks and scratches from the drying process.
Versatility and Multi-Purpose Design
The system works effectively on a wide range of surfaces and vehicles:
- Cars and daily drivers
- RVs and motorhomes
- Motorcycles and bikes
- Boats and yachts
- Aircraft
- Solar panels
- Windows
This versatility makes it an excellent investment for households with multiple vehicles or watercraft.
Portable Design with Thoughtful Engineering
The entire unit is mounted on a powder-coated, rust-resistant rolling cart that makes it convenient to move into position and store away when finished1. The upright cart design requires a minimal garage or detailing trailer floor space.
Real-World Performance: Does It Deliver?
Testing Methodology
To test the CR Spotless DIC-20, I used it on different vehicles. These vehicles had various paint colors and finishes. I included dark-colored vehicles because they often show water spots more clearly. Tests were conducted in different conditions, including direct sunlight, which normally accelerates water spotting.
Observations & Results
Effectiveness in Preventing Water Spots
The system consistently delivered on its primary promise: spot-free results. No water spots were visible when using the deionized water for the final rinse, allowing vehicles to air dry. I personally check that even on dark-colored vehicles in direct sunlight. Customer reviews confirm this performance, with many reporting “absolutely no spots” after use.
Water Quality Output
The TDS meter shows real-time readings of water purity. Fresh resin typically produces 0 ppm readings, gradually increasing as the resin becomes depleted. Most users report that the system works effectively even when readings climb to 10-20 ppm.
Resin Longevity
The 300-gallon capacity is approximate and heavily dependent on your input water quality. Those with particularly hard water may see shorter resin life. In contrast, those with softer water will get more gallons before requiring resin replacement.
User Experience & Practical Day-to-Day Use
Setup and Operation
The DIC-20 requires minimal assembly out of the box. Users report that “assembly was a snap, with little to put together, and very clear instructions”. Operation is straightforward—simply connect to your water source, turn on the water, and begin rinsing your vehicle.
Time Savings
The elimination of the drying process is where users see the greatest benefit. What might have been a 90-minute wash and dry process can be reduced significantly when there’s no need to hand-dry the vehicle. One customer noted it “makes car washing a breeze and cuts down my detailing time almost in half”.
Design & Build Quality
The CR Spotless DIC-20 features robust construction with high-quality components. The powder-coated frame resists rust and corrosion. The blue filter housings are made from strong materials that can handle water pressure. Customer feedback on build quality is mostly positive. One user said, “The product is very sturdy and well-built.” However, some reviews raise concerns about long-term durability.
How Does It Compare? Alternatives & Competitors
Comparison with Other Popular Systems
| Feature | CR Spotless DIC-20 | Waterdrop Spotless | iSpring WGB22BD-BP | Adam’s Basic Portable |
| Price Range | $439 | $339.99 | $482.99 | $249.99 |
| Filter Capacity | ~300 gallons | Not specified | ~1,200 gallons | ~560 gallons (@100ppm) |
| Portability | Rolling cart | Yes | Movable stand | Yes |
| Bypass Feature | Available | Not specified | Yes | No |
| Warranty | 30-day return | 30-day return + 1 year warranty | 1-year warranty | Not specified |
| Recycling Program | Yes | No | No | No |
CR Spotless vs. Waterdrop Spotless Car Wash System
The Waterdrop system is a newer competitor, typically priced lower than the CR Spotless DIC-20. While it works on the same deionization principle, it may not offer the same capacity or build quality as the CR Spotless system.
CR Spotless vs. ISPRING Spotless Car Wash System
The ISPRING WGB22BD-BP system includes a bypass valve that allows users to switch between filtered and unfiltered water without disconnecting. This feature can help extend resin life by using deionized water only for the final rinse. It’s priced around $482.99, slightly higher than the CR Spotless DIC-20.
CR Spotless vs. Adam’s Basic Portable Spotless Water Deionizer
Adam’s offering is priced at $249.99 and claims to filter up to 560 gallons. Also, at 100 ppm TDS, it potentially offers more capacity than the CR Spotless system. However, it doesn’t include the bypass feature in other models.
Where It Excels or Falls Short:
Advantages Over Competitors
- Pioneer in the Industry: CR Spotless has been in the market longer than most competitors and has established a reputation for quality and reliability.
- Customer Service: Many reviews highlight excellent customer support from CR Spotless, a veteran-owned business.
- Recycling Program: CR Spotless offers a unique recycling program for used resin cartridges, making it more environmentally friendly than some alternatives.
Areas for Improvement
- Initial Cost: At $439, the CR Spotless DIC-20 represents a significant investment compared to some competitors.
- Resin Replacement Cost: The ongoing expense of replacement resin is a concern in multiple reviews.
- No Bypass Valve: Unlike the ISPRING system, the standard DIC-20 doesn’t include a bypass valve, though newer CR Spotless models now offer this feature.
Who Should Buy the CR Spotless DIC-20?
The CR Spotless DIC-20 is ideal for:
- Car Enthusiasts who want showroom-quality finishes without the risk of water spots or towel-induced swirl marks.
- RV Owners who struggle with the tedious task of drying large vehicles
- Boat owners are looking to maintain the appearance of their watercraft without hours of drying time.
- Motorcycle Enthusiasts who want to easily clean hard-to-dry surfaces with many crevices
- Homeowners with Hard Water who currently deal with persistent water-spotting issues
- Mobile Detailers seeking a portable solution for spot-free rinsing.
This system may not be necessary for those with extremely soft water, as spotting is less of an issue in these areas.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Eliminates water spots completely when used correctly
- Saves significant time by removing the need to hand-dry vehicles
- Portable design with rolling cart for easy storage and movement
- It can be used in direct sunlight without worrying about spots
- Works on multiple surfaces and vehicle types
- Includes a TDS meter to monitor water quality
- Backed by a company with a good customer service reputation
- Offers a recycling program for used resin
Cons:
- Relatively high initial investment at $439
- Ongoing costs for resin replacement
- Performance depends on input water quality
- The standard model lacks a bypass valve (though available in newer versions)
- Bulky design requires storage space
- Some users report concerns about long-term durability
Value for Money
At $439, the CR Spotless DIC-20 represents a significant initial investment. However, many users find it worthwhile when considering the time savings and potential benefits to your vehicle’s finish. Eliminating water spots can help maintain your vehicle’s appearance and potentially reduce the need for paint correction due to water spot etching.
The main ongoing expense is resin replacement. CR Spotless offers recyclable cartridges, and users report that “they even ship it for free and provide a return label for the old one, all for a very reasonable [price]”. However, with hard water, these replacements may be required more frequently, increasing the lifetime cost of ownership.
For professional detailers or those with multiple vehicles, the time savings alone often justifies the investment. One professional user noted, “I can wash 2-3 cars at once and don’t have to dry them because there is no fear of spotting”.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does the resin last before replacement is needed?
The resin typically lasts approximately 300 gallons of water, which varies significantly based on your water hardness. Users with hard water may get fewer gallons, while those with softer water will see extended resin life1.
Will this system remove wax from my car?
No, the deionized water will not remove wax from your vehicle. In fact, many users appreciate that they “do not have to worry about tiny scratches caused by drying with a towel,” which can gradually degrade wax coatings.
Can I use this with a pressure washer?
Yes, the CR Spotless system can be used with a pressure washer as long as the flow rate of the pressure washer is within the optimal operating range (0.5-2.0 GPM) of the deionization unit.
Does soft water extend the life of the resin?
According to CR Spotless, “Softened water (potassium or sodium-based) will not extend the life of the resin. The TDS count of the water coming out of the water softener will be (more or less) the same as the water going into your softener”.
Final Verdict & Recommendation
The CR Spotless DIC-20 keeps its main promise. It gives you spot-free washing results, so you don’t need to towel dry. This system makes washing much easier for car lovers, RV owners, and anyone who cares about their vehicle’s look.
The initial investment and ongoing resin costs are important. However, the time savings and better results make this a good purchase for many users. Customer testimonials often highlight how this system has changed their car washing experience. One user said it “cut my wash time down a lot.” I have horribly hard water and could not wash at home without it”.
Recommended for: Car lovers, RV owners, and anyone with hard water who wants a clean finish without long drying times.
Rating: 4.3/5 – Excellent performance and convenience that justifies the premium price for the right users.
The CR Spotless DIC-20 is the top choice in the spotless water system market. It is made by a veteran-owned company known for quality and good customer service. If water spots have been a problem, this system provides a reliable and effective solution. It will change how you wash your car.
Price: $439.00 | Buy it on Amazon
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Hi, I’m Engineer Hm Jamal, founder of Green Mark Engineering. With 13 years in the home improvement industry, I’m passionate about creating sustainable, high-quality solutions for homes. My focus is on making your home improvement experience smooth and successful. Whether it’s a renovation or a new project, I’m here to ensure it’s done right.
