How Much Do Residential Water Softeners Cost?
When it comes to residential water softeners, the answer is “it depends.” The cost of installing a water softener can vary widely depending on your home’s size and type. The most common systems are ion exchange and salt-based, but other types include reverse osmosis systems, distillers, and magnetic descalers.
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Choosing a System
Before you shop for a residential water softener, make sure you know the current hardness of your water. You can do this with a water testing kit or by calling your local water department. You can also find out by consulting with a water treatment specialist.
A water softener will lower your overall water bills because it reduces the mineral content of your tap water. It can also save you money on cleaning supplies, which are often expensive in hard water, and it can extend the life of your appliances.
Ion exchange water softeners remove calcium and magnesium minerals from your water, leaving behind only sodium ions. They are the most popular type of residential water softener, but they also carry a higher initial price tag than other systems.
They also require more maintenance, such as replacing salt, which costs around $200 to $500 per year. Ion exchange water softeners have a lifespan of about 10 years, so it’s important to choose a high-quality unit.
If you’re deciding between a salt-based and an ion-exchange system, it’s best to consider all the pros and cons before making a final decision. Salt-based systems use resin to soften well or municipal water and salt to regenerate it. Ion-exchange systems are also known as no-salt systems because they don’t use salt to soften your water.
Whether you’re buying or selling your home, it’s a good idea to have the water tested before you make any purchases. The test will tell you how hard your water is, which is a useful way to compare different water softeners.
Then, you can decide what type of water softener will work best for your family’s needs. A professional can help you determine which system is right for your home, as well as recommend a compatible brand and capacity.
Installation
The installation of a residential water softener is a relatively straightforward project. It doesn’t usually require the oversight of a general contractor, though some installation projects can require additional plumbing or electrical work.
A typical water softener install costs between $200 and $300, but this could vary based on the system’s type and capacity and whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring a pro.
If you have the time and skills to install a softener yourself, it can be a great way to cut costs and save yourself some trouble. However, it’s important to be cautious not to damage your plumbing or create a leak that will need to be repaired later.
If you want to hire a professional for the install, be sure to get quotes from up to three experts near you. They can provide free, no-commitment project estimates to give you an idea of what your installation will cost.