The price for a new water softener can vary. It all depends on the make and model you’re interested in. It also depends on how many bells and whistles it comes with. On average, you can expect to spend between $300 and $4,000 on the entire package. This includes both the water softener and installation.
If you need a new water softener, Plumbing by Jake can help you find a make and model that fits within your budget and will do the job you need it to do. Give us a call at (928) 377-5910, and we’ll schedule a time to meet with you and discuss your possible options.
Signs You’ll Need a New Water Softener Soon
If you already own a water softener but you think it may be time to replace it soon, the first thing you should consider is the age of your softener.
Water softeners typically last between 10 and 15 years, so if yours is 10 years old or older, it’s a good idea to start shopping around. It’s better to prepare yourself for something that hasn’t yet happened than scramble to buy a new water softener without doing all your research first.
Like any other appliance, your water softener will give you a sign (or several) when its time is almost up. Here are some of the more common signs to look for that may mean you’ll need a new water softener soon.
Less Lather
You’re washing your hair in the shower when you realize you need two handfuls of soap to get a good lather going when you used to only need one. This is a sign that your water softener is starting to go. Hard water does not lather the way “soft” water does, so if you can’t seem to get a good lather in the shower or while washing your hands in the sink, your water softener may head for a breakdown soon.
Laundry Troubles
If your normally soft laundry has been coming out of the dryer scratchier and stiffer lately, this may be a sign that your water softener is breaking down. You may try to balance it out with fabric softener, but this will only work for a little while, and not as well as your water softener does.
In any event, hard water can cause more problems than it’s worth. It can cause mineral deposits to form and ultimately damage any appliances in your home that use hot water, including your washing machine. If you notice your laundry is “harder” than usual, you should schedule an appointment with a professional to take a look at your water softener.
You Notice the Water Coming Out of Your Tap Has a Different Taste
Your taste buds will tell you right away if something is off with your water softener. This is because a malfunctioning water softener allows more minerals to seep into your drinking water. Some people like the taste of “hard” water better than “soft” water, but even if you do, you should still call a professional, as this is a sign that your water softener needs repairing.
Keep Your Water Softener Running Strong
While time takes its toll no matter how well you take care of your appliances, there are still some things you can do to keep your water softener in proper working order for as long as possible.
For one thing, you can regularly change the filter. Neglecting the filter in your water softener is one of the fastest routes to a breakdown. Be sure to check your owner’s manual for instructions on how exactly to change your filter so you don’t do further damage.
You can also practice caution when you replenish the salt supply. Specifically, you can wait to replenish it until the tank is a third of the way full. When you refill it, leave about a quarter of the tank empty, or about 4 to 6 inches.
Take note of “salt bridges” when you add the salt. Salt bridges are hard, crusty deposits of salt which, when present, form a barrier between the water and salt. Then, the salt can’t get to the water to dissolve and make brine. Brine is responsible for cleaning your softener, so without brine you can expect your water softener to break down more often.
Need a New Water Softener Installed? Call Plumbing By Jake Today!
If your current water softener is on the fritz, or if you’ve never had a water softener and you need one installed, Plumbing by Jake is the company to call. With the word “plumbing” in our name, you know we are well-versed in taking care of all appliances that use water.
We know how much of an emergency a plumbing issue can be. That’s why our team is available 24/7 to handle any and all problems for you, no matter how big or small – and no problem is ever too small.
If you need help with your water softener, call us at (928) 377-5910 or send us a message online. We offer a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee, so you never have to worry about property damage or us not fixing a potential mistake. Call Plumbing by Jake today, and let’s work together to get that brand-new water softener installed!
