Do you have hard water in your home or office? Do you want a reliable & affordable solution to combat this issue? If so, you must invest in a water softener system!
A good quality water softener can not only deliver an efficient & sustainable source of softened water & reduce the cost of running multiple appliances. They reduce the amount of sodium & minerals in your water supply & can also help protect pipes & appliances from corrosion-related damage.
Before taking on such an investment, you’ll likely want to know how much installation costs & luckily, we have all the answers for you! This blog post will cover what factors influence the cost of installing a water softener system & provide helpful tips on how to get started with its maintenance once it’s up & running.
If you’re interested in learning more about what goes into this project’s total cost for labor & supplies, read on!
Factors Involved In Calculating Water Softener System Cost
System Type
Seven highly effective water softeners are available: ion exchangers (using salt & brine), water distillers, salt-free systems, reverse osmosis units, dual-tank models, well water softeners & magnetic systems. Prices range from $200* to $600* for the most affordable magnetic system, up to $5,000* for a high-quality dual-tank model.
Note – The type & capacity of the system greatly influence the price, as higher power yields more treated water & consequently higher costs.
System Capacity
| Capacity in Grains | Cost* |
| 32000 | 1,599.00 |
| 48000 | 1,699.00 |
| 64000 | 1,899.00 |
The capacity of a water softener system is typically measured in grains per gallon (GPG). This metric indicates the system’s ability to filter hard water. The required capacity for a home depends on the water hardness & the number of residents. Systems with lower GPG capacity are generally more cost-effective than those with higher capacity.
Home Size
A bigger house with multiple bathrooms needs more plumbing compared to an apartment. The system’s capacity must be estimated based on grains per gallon to ensure sufficient water treatment for daily use. Grain capacity refers to the amount of mineral content that can be removed. Homeowners can follow these steps to determine the system size:
- Calculate the total water usage by multiplying the number of people in the home by 90 (average gallons used per person daily).
- Further calculate by multiplying the above result by the hardness of the water specified by the local municipality (typically around 10 grains per day, but can vary from 0 to 17 grains).
- Lastly, multiply the previous result by 10.
For instance, if you have 3 people, multiplying 90 by 3 gives you 270. Multiply that by 10 & you get 2,700 grains per day. Multiply by 10 once more & you have 27,000 grains. So, the water softener needs a capacity of at least 27,000 grains. On average, a 32,000-grain water softener can serve a household of up to five people.
Whole-Home Vs. Under-Counter Water Softener
If a complete water softener system seems overwhelming, consider installing a compact under-the-counter reverse-osmosis unit for specific rooms. This is a common choice for kitchens or bathrooms.
Labor
For conventional whole-house systems, labor rates usually range from $150* to $1,000* for water softener installation. The cost may increase if the intricate structure requires additional piping to accommodate the new system.
Geographic Location
Location impacts the total cost of water softener installation projects. Urban areas have higher labor & material rates due to the higher cost of living & greater demand than rural areas.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, water hardness is also affected by the specific region. Many parts of the western & southwestern United States have higher mineral content than other regions.
You should choose a system that suits the mineral content in your region. You can contact Lone Star Water Services for a free consultation to understand local prices.
We offer competitively priced ‘water softener installation near me’ & can help you make the best decision for your home.
Additional Costs & Considerations
In addition to the initial system cost & labor fees, several other factors can impact the overall cost of water softener systems. As a homeowner, you must arrange for water testing & be prepared for ongoing maintenance expenses once the unit is installed. Furthermore, the installer may need to incorporate electrical or plumbing modifications to ensure optimal functionality.
Permits & Inspections
For water softener installation, obtaining a permit or undergoing an inspection by the local authorities may be necessary. In some cases, the involvement of a licensed plumber may also be mandated. You are advised to consult with the installers or their local municipality to determine if the installation necessitates a permit.
Service & Maintenance
Water softener systems are intricate units that employ multiple components to ensure the proper & safe functioning of the system. Regular maintenance is necessary to provide the correct treatment of water. If the system operates on saltwater, inspecting the brine tank every 3 to 4 months to prevent salt buildup is crucial. A water softener technician will also replenish the salt or potassium as required.
Water Tests
Understanding the present condition of a household’s water content is crucial in determining the most suitable water softener system. Local municipalities may offer water testing services, or a water treatment specialist can conduct an on-site assessment.
Those following a sound strategy should consider obtaining a comprehensive test that measures pH, hardness & iron content.
Framing Or Electrical Modifications
To ensure efficient installation of a whole-house water softener system, it is crucial to position it near the water main. If this area is not easily accessible or a new plumbing line must be trenched, the installation costs may escalate.
Moreover, the system necessitates an electrical connection for its functionality. If there isn’t a proximate power source, hiring an electrician to create and divert power connections to the unit may lead to extra expenses.
Salt Replacement
Many water softeners utilize salt for treating hard water. The salt in a water softener needs periodic replacement, typically every few months. The choice of salt used can significantly impact the performance of a water softener. Thus, you should consider the optimal options for water softener salt.
At Lone Star Water Services, we generally offer a complimentary bag of salt pellets. Such bags typically range from $25* to $100*. Salt-free units, on the other hand, use potassium as an alternative, and the cost of potassium replacements lies between $250* and $750*.
Energy Efficiency
Various softener systems operate differently & exhibit variations in energy efficiency. For instance, systems that heat the water consume considerably more electricity than those that do not. Consequently, this leads to higher operational expenses in the long run. It would help if you considered these factors in addition to the initial system cost.
Additional Features
Certain softeners offer multiple features, including a self-cleaning option that efficiently removes sediment buildup. While this feature may incur an additional cost ranging from $300* to $1,500*. It can significantly reduce long-term maintenance expenses.
Water Softener Rental
For homeowners who prefer to avoid committing to purchasing a water softener, renting a unit is possible. Rental costs typically range from $100* to $500* per month. This can be a suitable choice for vacation homes that are not occupied year-round or for those who want to try out a system before purchasing.
However, it’s important to note that the long-term rental cost is higher than buying a unit outright.
How Water Softener Installation Works At Lone Star Water Services?
Step 1: Select The Product That Fits Your Needs
When selecting a water softener for your home, you’ll be spoiled for choice with a range of exceptional products available. Explore various websites & their collection of top-notch water softeners, each designed to cater to the unique needs of your household. You can also contact our experts & utilize their expertise & find the ideal water softener that meets your requirements, providing ultimate comfort & peace of mind.
Step 2: See An Associate To Purchase The Installation
Once you’ve chosen the water softener that suits your needs & preferences, approach a water softener sales associate to finalize your purchase & schedule a professional installation. This way, you can ensure the water softener is correctly & efficiently installed, guaranteeing optimal performance & long-lasting benefits for your home’s water quality.
Step 3: Schedule Your Installation
Once you have purchased your product in-store, you can schedule an installation by contacting us at 512-805-1220. Our team will go the extra mile to ensure your satisfaction. We will connect you with a trusted installer who will expertly complete the structure of your new water softener, providing you with peace of mind & a seamless experience.
Your Installer Will:
*Please note that water softener installation necessitates a 110-volt receptacle within 7-10 feet of the water softener. |
Top 5 Benefits Of Installing A Water Softener System
Reduced Energy Bills:
A water softener system can help reduce energy bills by up to 15%. The reduced buildup of the heating elements eliminates energy usage & helps maintain a consistent temperature in your home.
Increased Water Pressure:
Hard water often results in low water pressure due to the buildup of mineral deposits that accumulate in pipes & fixtures over time. Installing a water softener can reduce or eliminate this buildup, resulting in improved water pressure & flow.
Improved Cleanliness:
Softened water prevents the buildup of soap scum on surfaces, making it easier to keep your house clean & detergent free. It also boosts the effectiveness of laundry detergents & cleaning products, leading to brighter clothes & sparkling dishes.
Protected Appliances:
Hard water deposits damage appliances & fixtures over time, resulting in expensive replacement costs. Water softeners reduce or eliminate the buildup of calcium & magnesium deposits that can corrode these items, saving you money in the long run.
Healthier Skin:
Softened water improves the quality of bathwater dramatically. Reducing mineral deposits helps maintain the natural pH balance & oils in your skin while preventing dryness & irritation. It also helps to prevent dandruff & other scalp conditions.
When To Call A Pro From Lone Star Water Services?
There are two primary challenges associated with the installation of a water softener.
- The first one involves the cutting of the main water supply pipe. Though this task is generally straightforward, it can be daunting for specific individuals.
- The second challenge lies in identifying a suitable drain location. If there are no drains nearby, it will be necessary to install one & connect it to the existing plumbing system in your home.
If you feel uncomfortable undertaking these steps on your own, it is advisable to engage the services of a professional plumber. Most professionals do not undertake partial jobs, so you will likely need to enlist their expertise for the installation.
Contact Lone Star Water Services today! Our team of experienced plumbers & electricians is equipped with the skills & knowledge to help you make an informed decision & find the ideal system for your household. We strive to provide superior customer service & ensure the best quality of product & installation, providing optimal performance that lasts for years to come.
Let us help you create a healthier home environment today!
(* Please note that the provided prices are approximations & may fluctuate based on various factors. Please contact us at your convenience for the most current & accurate pricing inquiries.)
