If your unit is old or broken, it can cause hard water problems including white spots on dishes and buildup in your pipes.
In this blog, we’ll show you how to tell when to get a new system, its costs and how easy it is to install a new water softener.
What Is a Water Softener & Why Is It Important?
It takes out minerals from the water like calcium and magnesium.
Hard water can cause white spots on dishes and damage to pipes over time. The system makes soap and shampoo perform better and keeps your appliances working smoothly.
Minerals make water hard which can cause issues like:
- White spots on plates.
- Less leather with soap.
- Dry skin and hair.
- Buildup of scale in pipes.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Water Softener?
The price of replacing the system might change based on the size and type of system. Basic units are usually cheaper, and more efficient systems may be expensive.
The cost of installation can also change depending on how complicated the plumbing is. If only the resin within the softener is damaged, then it is easier and cheaper to replace it instead.
Here is a simple breakdown:
Cost of a New Water Softener Unit
- Basic units cost between $400 and $900.
- Units in the middle range cost between $1,000 and $1,800.
- For high-end or big systems, the price ranges from $2,000 to $3,500.
Installation Cost
- The cost of professional installation is around $300 to $1,000.
- Extra plumbing work, if needed, costs between $100 and $500.
- The cost of replacing the resin in a water softener.
Signs You Need to Replace Your Water Softener
Knowing when to replace the system will save you time and money. Even the greatest systems can break down over time and problems with hard water may come back.
You can take action early if they pay attention to these signs. This could mean fixing a little problem, or replacing the whole system to make sure your home has clean and soft water.
You should keep a check on these signs:
- Water Feels Hard Again: If you see white streaks on dishes or sinks you need a new system.
- Soap & Shampoo Don’t Lather: Hard water makes soap feel sticky and less effective which means that your system isn’t working right.
- Clothes Look Dull: The minerals in hard water can make clothes wear out faster and make laundry feel less soft.
- Low Water Pressure: If your system is blocked it might slow down the flow of water in your home.
- Age of the System: Most units last between 10 and 15 years. Older systems are more likely to break down and may need to be replaced.
How to Replace Your Water Softener the Right Way
It could seem hard to replace a water softener but knowing the basic steps makes it easier.
We turn off the main water supply first and the old unit is drained and unplugged from the pipes. Then the new system is put in place and hooked up to the pipes.
The input and outlet lines are checked to make sure they are secure. Then we add salt to the brine tank and set up the system to meet the needs of your home.
At last the water is switched back on and checked to make sure the softener is working right. These are the main steps to change the unit but it’s best to hire a professional to do the replacement.
When to Repair & Replace Your Water Softener
Before you decide whether to fix the unit or buy a new one, think about how old it is. If your system is still new and has small issues like broken resin or a small mechanical fault the best approach to save money may be to fix it.
If the system is old or breaks down often it’s recommended to replace the whole system. A modern water softener not only improves the quality of water but also makes it more efficient with less salt usage. It is a better investment for your home and health in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When do I need to replace my water softener?
If the water feels hard again, soap doesn’t lather well or the system is older than 10-15 years then you need a new one.
How much time does it take to replace a water softener?
Most replacements take between 1 and 3 hours.
Can a broken water softener damage my pipes or appliances?
Yes. Hard water can cause scales to build up in the pipes of water heaters. This can make them less efficient and cost a lot to fix.
Contact Us for Expert Water Softener Services in North New Jersey
To keep your home appliances and family safe from hard water, you need a machine that works well.
If your system is showing symptoms of damage or using too much salt, replacing it can save you time and money. At American Way Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning, we make the water softener replacement process easy and stress-free all across North New Jersey.
Contact us now to get clean water back in your home!