How Much Does It Cost to Install a Water Softener?
Hard water makes it difficult to get your dishes and laundry clean and creates buildup in your appliances and pipes. If you have hard water, the most effective way of dealing with it is to install a water softening system in your home. Water softeners either remove or render harmless the minerals that cause hard water. For homes where hard water is an issue, installing a water softener could be a great investment not only to improve water quality but to prevent unnecessary buildup and wear on your pipes and appliances.
The average cost to install a water softener in the U.S. ranges from $1,100 to $3,000. Most people spend about $2,500 on the installation of a dual tank ion exchange system with all parts and labor included. On the low end, you could spend as little as $600 for the installation of a small, basic descaler system. At the high end of the range, you could easily spend $7,000 for the installation of a multi-tank whole home water softening and filtration system for a home housing three or four people.
Water Softener System Cost
| Water Softener Installation Cost | |
|---|---|
| National average cost | $2,500 |
| Average range | $1,100-$3,000 |
| Minimum cost | $600 |
| Maximum cost | $7,000 |
In this guide
Home Water Softening System Cost by Type
New Water Softener Cost by Brand
Water Softener Price Comparison by Capacity
Labor Cost to Install Water Softener
Water Softener System Installation Cost by Company
Cost to Replace Water Softener
Water Softener Rental Costs
Water Softener Cost Per Month
Water Softener Maintenance Cost
Signs You Need a Water Softener
Water Softener Sizing Chart
Salt-Based Water Softener vs Salt-Free
Water Softener vs Water Treatment
Water Softener vs Water Conditioner
Enhancement and Improvement Costs
Additional Considerations
FAQs
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Water Softener Installation Cost by Project Range
How Does a Water Softener Work?
A water softener is a filtration system that uses salt or a salt-free chemical additive to remove high concentrations of magnesium and calcium that can cause hard water. The water in the home flows through a softener first, which filters out the excess minerals. Then, the water continues to flow through the plumbing to the various appliances and fixtures throughout the house. Different types of water softening systems have their own precise methods of application. However, they all reduce the hardness or mineral buildup in the water supply and provide better quality water to homes.
Home Water Softening System Cost by Type
The average home water softening system cost by type ranges from $200 to $4,000. Some systems cost more than others to install. Others offer a higher quality filtration system, so they come with a premium cost for the unit. It doesn’t necessarily mean that cheaper systems aren’t good enough to do the job. In fact, all of the systems on this list will provide good results. Each one has its pros and cons to consider. In the table and subsections below, you’ll see the average cost of each type of system and what to know about them so that you can compare the different options.
| Water Softener Type | Average Cost (Materials Only) |
|---|---|
| Magnetic | $200 - $400 |
| Electronic | $200 - $600 |
| Descaler | $200 - $2,000 |
| Ion Exchange | $500 - $1,500 |
| Well Water Softener | $500 - $1,500 |
| Dual Tank | $1,000 - $1,500 |
| Water Distiller | $1,200 - $4,000 |
| Reverse Osmosis | $1,500 - $1,800 |
| Whole House | $2,000 - $4,000 |
Magnetic Water Softener
The average cost to install a magnetic water softener is $200 to $400, depending on the exact size and type of unit installed. Magnetic water softeners use magnets around the pipes to neutralize the minerals. This prevents buildup, but after the water has been away from the magnets long enough, the minerals can once again leave a stain. So, leaving things to soak in water from this system can still result in residue. You may need several magnets depending on the size of your home. They are not usually recommended if you have very hard water.
Electronic Water Softener
Electronic water softeners are a type of descaler and range in price from $200 to $600. These systems don’t actually remove minerals but instead serve to de-ionize the water, make it less metallic or “hard,” and provide slightly better quality. They work differently than full filtration and softener systems. They are more affordable because they don’t offer as much softening ability or as many features as the other systems. Still, for those with minor issues, it could be an effective solution to alleviate mineral deposits or make water in the home better for everyday use.
Descaler Water Softener
You can expect to spend between $200 and $2,000 on a descaler water softener 2. Magnetic systems are considered one type of descaler. However, there are several other types. This includes electronic systems, salt-free chemicals for certain ion exchange 4& systems, and others. It is not usually recommended for those who have very hard water 3 but provides results for those with less significant hard water 3 issues in their home. The style and capacity that you choose impact the final cost.
Ion Exchange Water Softener Price
The most common system available, the ion exchange water softener, costs between $500 and $1,500. They may cost significantly more if you need two or three tanks instead of one. These systems take up a lot of space and use a lot of water, requiring constant replenishment of the salt or additives used to keep the water treated. These systems are fairly affordable to install. Also, they’re easy to come by, making them a popular choice for many homeowners.
Well Water Softener System Cost
If you choose to invest in a system for your well, you can expect to pay about $500 to $1,500 for the typical well water softener system. These systems are slightly different from standard systems because they work with wells and pumped-in water rather than municipal systems. They may also remove additional impurities and minerals from the water, making them more costly because of all the filtration features needed. For people with well water who want good quality water in their homes, this is a worthwhile investment.
Dual Tank Water Softener
If you install a dual tank water softener, you can expect to spend $1,000 to $1,500 depending on the size of the tanks and the overall system. These systems are set to a timer to flush, or they can be flushed manually. However, unlike ion exchange systems, these have two tanks so that there is no interruption to the water supply during the flushing process. This is why the system has a premium cost compared to the common ion exchange, but it also offers better features and performance.
Water Distiller Price
The average water distiller price is $1,200 to $4,000. The cost you pay depends on the type of distiller that you choose and the system that you have installed in your home. This treatment method converts water into vapor, removes the contaminants through filtration, and then returns it to a liquid state. This system yields highly purified water and some of the cleanest water available. This water is often worth the investment for those who worry about what might be in their tap water. It offers an alternative to a standard water softener that removes far more impurities.
Reverse Osmosis Water Softener
It will cost $1,500 to $1,800 to install a reverse osmosis water softener system in your home. This type of system is effective at removing up to 96% of the minerals from your water. This system takes up less space as it pushes the water through a membrane using extreme pressure. It removes everything from the water, so it is a good choice for people with wells with concerns about other minerals or buildup they want to remove from their drinking water and the other water used in their day-to-day lives.
Cost of Whole House Water Softener
The cost of a whole house water softener ranges from $2,000 to $4,000, depending on the size of your home and the system that is installed. Larger homes with more hard water issues will need to consider this option because the systems are bigger and capable of handling more water throughput. Most of the systems on this list can be considered “whole house” systems. You may find some as cheap as $200, but it’s rare that most homes actually find anything effective in that price range, especially after factoring in labor and installation costs.
New Water Softener Cost by Brand
Several different brands of water softeners are on the market, with an average price range of $300 to $5,000. The price you pay varies, depending on the brand and its quality. This section reviews the top brands of water softening systems and their average costs for the unit only. This helps you better understand your options for different brands in terms of quality, style, price, and other factors. Labor costs are not included here because those are not dependent on the brand and should be similar regardless of which brand you choose. In the table and subsections below, you will see the top brands and their costs, features, pros and cons, and other important details.
| Water Softener Brand | Average Cost (Materials Only) |
|---|---|
| Rayne | $300 - $4,000 |
| Culligan | $500 - $5,000 |
| Kinetico | $500 - $5,000 |
| Dupure | $600 - $1,000 |
| Puronics | $600 - $2,000 |
| Nugen | $600 - $2,500 |
| Pelican | $900 - $2,600 |
| Hellenbrand | $1,200 - $2,500 |
| Sterling | $1,500 - $1,800 |
Rayne Water Softener Prices
The average Rayne water softener prices range between $300 and $4,000 for the unit only, with no installation costs included. The price range is wide because the brand offers a huge range of softener types and capacities to meet just about every need. These systems feature premium eco-friendly filtration methods to provide pure, clean drinking water and water for everyday use at a cost that’s affordable for just about everyone. They have some models that might not be as high-quality in terms of filtration at the lower end of the price range. However, they’re still affordable options for those who need something basic.
Culligan Water Softener Cost
People like brands like Culligan because it’s a name they’re familiar with, which is why the average person is willing to spend $500 to $5,000 on just a water softener unit alone. Culligan offers its own installation services. Third-party dealers and vendors sell softeners from this brand and are licensed and certified to install Culligan systems. There is a lot of variation because this company makes a wide range of products to fill as many needs as possible. The quality is unmatched, and their reputation certainly speaks for itself.
Kinetico Water Softener Cost
The average Kinetico water softener cost is between $500 and $5,000. Again, this is such a wide range because Kinetico makes all kinds of water softening systems and purification solutions, including portable and other unique styles of systems. The brand even rents water softening systems so that you don’t have to buy the unit outright. Instead, you pay a monthly rate to rent it and have it taken care of by a dealer. A premium whole-house water softening system from this brand incurs a premium cost, and that’s without labor factored in.
Dupure Water Softener System Prices
Dupure water systems typically range in price from $600 to $1,000 for a mid-range system. Some units have a higher price point. In terms of quality, Dupure doesn’t get the best ratings compared to others on the list. However, it offers a water softening solution at an affordable price for those who choose it. These systems are usually simpler to install, reducing labor costs that add to your total. Be sure to compare models to choose one that has the best features for the money.
Puronics Water Softener Cost
Puronics water softeners offer a higher mid-range option, with average costs ranging from $600 to $2,000 per unit. The cost of installation will be in addition to this price. Puronics systems are installed by professionals and come in all sizes, although they are typically made to be used as reverse osmosis systems. Several types are available to choose from, with each one having its pros and cons to consider. In terms of consumer ratings and quality, this brand ranks fairly high on the list.
Nugen Water Softener Price
Most homeowners spend about $600 to $2,500 on a Nugen water softener. These systems have basic models and premium systems from which to choose. They offer eco-friendly features, upgraded filtration, and more. You can choose from several styles, and most include an impressive warranty, along with simple installation, so there’s not a lot of excessive renovations or retrofitting required. Nugen water softening systemsare available in reverse osmosis, as well as several other styles and product lines.
Pelican Water Systems Cost
Pelican water systems cost $900 to $2,600, based on the size and type of system you choose. The installation cost will be separate, as with most of the options on this brand list. Pelican systems feature smaller profile tanks, as well as eco-friendly features and other premium upgrades. They come in several varieties to fit just about every need and budget. When you work with a licensed dealer for the brand, you can guarantee that you will get the perfect system with an in-home consultation.
Hellenbrand Water Softener Prices
The average Hellenbrand water softener prices range from $1,200 to $2,500, with the actual cost depending on the size of the unit and the features that it offers. Hellenbrand makes some of the leading water softening systems on the market today that feature premium filtration upgrades and impressively sleek designs. These water softening systems are mostly made of reverse osmosis systems, but different models are available to suit just about any need that you may have.
Sterling Water Softener Prices
Sterling water softener prices are reasonable and range from $1,500 to $1,800 without installation cost included. These water softening systemsstart at a higher price point but have a more limited price range than most. They offer premium quality without breaking the bank. Sterling makes water softening systems in several types and sizes, offering something for all kinds of homes. The brand may offer special discounts or incentives for those who purchase through partner dealers.
Water Softener Price Comparison by Capacity
The average cost of a water softenerranges from $300 to $2,500 for the unit only depending on its capacity. Larger units that process more water will obviously have a higher price than smaller units. Other factors, such as the brand and any extra features, play a role in determining the final cost. This explains why there is such a variation in the price ranges listed in the table below. The capacity of a water softening system is measured in grains per gallon (GPG), which is determined by how many people are in your home and the hardness of your water, multiplied by the average gallons per day used by a person. The sizing chart shown in the section later on in the guide provides a comparison of the average people in the home and the size of the system that you need.
| Water Softener Capacity | Cost (Materials Only) |
|---|---|
| 32,000 | $300 - $1,000 |
| 40,000 | $400 - $1,200 |
| 48,000 | $500 - $1,500 |
| 64,000 | $1,000 - $1,500 |
| 80,000 | $1,500 - $1,800 |
| 96,000 | $1,700 - $2,500 |
Labor Cost to Install Water Softener
Of the $1,100 to $3,000 average cost to install a water softener, approximately $600 to $800 of that cost goes to the installation labor costs. The rest covers the cost of the water softener itself. However, plumbers charge from $100 to $1,000 for installation depending on the type of system and difficulty of installation. If more pipes need to be cut or the system is further from where the water comes in, additional installation costs are involved.
It will be important to get at least a few estimates of the plumber’s cost to install a water softening system and compare what some stores or retailers might charge for the same installation. Some brands, as you’ll see in the next section, provide installation services along with the purchase of a system from their store. The cost to have a water softening system installed shouldn’t be a huge expense unless there are extensive renovations or plumbing rerouting required.
The process of installing a water softening system is not that complex. It starts by shutting off the water and any nearby power supplies and mapping out the connections necessary. The plumber then makes the proper connections and installs any necessary bypasses. At this point, the brine tank will be filled halfway with salt. Then, they close the bypass and turn on the water to check for leaks. If there are no leaks, the setup and startup procedures will be completed, and the installation is finished.
Water Softener System Installation Cost by Company
The average water softener system installation cost ranges from $1,000 to $6,000, depending on the company you buy the water softener from. Different companies offer water softening system installation services when you buy a water softening system from them. In this section, we will explore the most popular stores and companies offering this service and how much they charge for installation in addition to the cost of the unit. The table and subsections below list each company and its cost for installing a water softening systems with purchase, the details of each, and any pros and cons you should know.
| Company | Average Cost (Installed) |
|---|---|
| Lowe’s | $1,000 - $2,800 |
| Home Depot | $2,500 - $6,000 |
| Costco | $4,000 - $6,000 |
Lowe’s Water Softener Installation Cost
Lowe’s water softener installation costs $1,000 to $2,800, depending on the unit you choose and what the installation process entails. Lowe’s sells a range of water softening systems in various sizes and types. They often run installation specials for new customers and those purchasing on a store credit card or account. For some people, having this done provides an alternative to hiring a private contractor or acquiring a water softening system and then finding someone to install it because it’s all done with one company.
Water Softener Installation Cost Home Depot
The average water softener installation cost for the Home Depot ranges from $2,500 to $6,000, which is at the higher end of the price range for this type of service. However, several of the brands and models available here are of higher quality. The installation costs may be slightly higher than they are at other stores. The Home Depot offers affordable solutions for people looking for one-stop shopping. It gives you another option if you are using a store credit card.
Costco Water Softener Installation Cost
Costco members can purchase the Ecowater system through the store and have it installed for an average cost of $4,000 to $6,000, depending on the exact system that they purchase. Different systems are available to choose from in this product line, including basic softeners and combination filtration systems, and plenty of options in between. Although Costco offers the highest cost of all retailers, they have a premium system that is usually better-rated than most found at local DIY home improvement stores.
Cost to Replace Water Softener
The average cost to replace a water softener is $600 to $700, which is generally cheaper when compared to installing a brand new unit. Several factors impact what you pay to replace water softening units, including if you buy one comparable to the unit that has failed or is just in need of replacement. While a new installation may involve additional plumbing work and other considerations, a replacement likely has these things in place with minimal modification needed, making it more affordable in most cases.
Water Softener Rental Costs
Some people elect to rent a water softener unit, which costs an average of $25 to $50 per month. Water softening systems rental is different from buying a unit outright. Renting allows you to lease a unit that includes salt and inspections so that you don’t have to worry about maintenance or upkeep or the purchase of a full system. You will pay an additional cost for any repairs or added components, such as if you choose to add a whole-home filter or if something needs to be fixed because it failed during your rental.
Water Softener Cost Per Month
The average cost of a water softener per month is $5 to $30, covering the cost of the salt or salt-free chemicals used to run the system. These systems require no electricity or fuel to run. In most cases, they won’t incur any additional costs. Be sure that you talk to your plumber or installation professional to determine the costs that you can expect to pay as a result of using a water softening system in your home. It’s usually a nominal cost, making these such a popular choice for many homeowners.
Water Softener Maintenance Cost
You’ll spend an average of $100 to $300 on your water softener maintenance, which varies depending on the type of softener you have and what kind of maintenance it requires. Ion exchange and reverse osmosis systems require routine inspections every two or three years to ensure they are running up to par and working as they should. Your installer can advise as to the best maintenance schedule based on the unit that you have installed. Beyond that, you will only have to ensure that the self-flush schedule is maintained and that the chemicals or salt you use are added properly. Some companies offer yearly contracts, while others will offer one-time services for chemical or salt delivery and more.
Signs You Need a Water Softener
Hard water can be caused by a few different minerals, including calcium and magnesium. You may see a film on your sink, tub, or dishes or a stain or buildup on things like your showerhead or coffee pot. Also, soap may not lather properly in the presence of hard water. Suppose your laundry is not getting clean, items stain when coming in contact with water, or evaporating water leaves a film or stain. If these things happen, you probably have hard water. A softener alleviates the issue and gives you better water quality throughout your home.
Water Softener Sizing Chart
Water softeners are only effective if they are properly sized for your home. If they are too small, they won’t be able to deal with the hard water and remove the minerals properly. Capacity is measured in grains per gallon (GPG). The grains refer to the number of minerals in your water. You find this information by having your water tested. To determine the total capacity needed for your home, you need to find out how much water you use a day. Look at your water bill to find the amount.
If you have a well, take the number of people living in your home and multiply it by 75 gallons to get the approximate number of gallons you use per day. Multiply this by the number of grains per gallon of water hardness you have, and then multiply this number by 10. The result is the size of the unit your home requires. For example, a three-person household with a water hardness level of 15 requires a unit that can handle roughly 35,000 GPG. The chart below provides a basic idea of the capacity your home needs based on how many people are in your home and how much water you use each day.
| Water Hardness Level | Number of People in Your Home | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 - 2 | 3 - 4 | |
| 5 - 10 | 32,000 | 32,000 |
| 11 - 20 | 32,000 | 32,000 |
| 21 - 30 | 32,000 | 40,000 |
| 31 - 40 | 40,000 | 64,000 |
| 41 - 50 | 64,000 | 80,000 |
| 51 - 75 | 64,000 | 80,000 |
| 76 - 100 | 80,000 | 96,000 |
Salt-Based Water Softener vs Salt-Free
The most common type of water softening system is called an ion exchange system. This system typically uses salt to exchange ions in the calcium and magnesium, making the water less hard. Salt-based systems are very effective and are made up of several parts. The brine tank contains the salt, and the resin tank exchanges the ions. Periodically, the brine tank is flushed through the resin tank to replenish the system.
This system has a few drawbacks, however. Salt is expensive and must be added regularly. It raises the sodium content of your water. The water-flushing wastes water and puts salt into the environment near your home. It is possible to use this system with a salt-free additive, usually potassium chloride. It is not as effective as salt because it will not reduce the amount of minerals. However, while salt costs around $5 to $10 a bag, potassium chloride costs between $20 to $30 a bag, making it a more expensive choice. However, it eliminates the issue of having sodium in your water.
| Water Softener Additive | Cost per Bag (Materials Only) |
|---|---|
| Salt | $5 - $10 |
| Potassium Chloride | $20 - $30 |
Water Softener vs Water Treatment
While the average cost to install a water softener is $1,100 to $3,000, the average cost of a full water treatment system will be closer to $500 to $2,500. A water softening systems is different from a water treatment system, also known as a water purification system. The latter is designed to add filtration for sediments and other bacteria and chemicals and calcium and magnesium that causes hard water buildup. While softeners focus on removing minerals, water treatment systems usually include a softener and a filter to ensure that the water in your home is of premium quality for drinking, cooking, and all of your other needs. In the table below, you’ll see a comparison of the costs of the two systems.
| System Type | Average Cost (Installed) |
|---|---|
| Water Treatment System | $500 - $2,500 |
| Water Softener | $1,100 - $3,000 |
Water Softener vs Water Conditioner
A water softener and a water conditioner are essentially the same thing. Water conditioners may use salt-free chemicals and have additional filtration features. In several cases, it’s just a matter of the name used because the systems actually provide the same type of solution required to deal with hard water. The cost range is comparable for these units, except for water conditioners that offer premium filtration features and may have a higher cost as a result. Be sure to talk to your restoration expert about the best course of action and which type of system is right for you, regardless of the semantics.
Enhancement and Improvement Costs
Water Softener Loop Cost
You can expect to spend about $600 to $2,000 to have a water softener loop installation in addition to a softener unit when an existing loop is not present. If this is the first time that you’re having a water softening system installed in existing plumbing, you may need a water softener loop installed. This U-shaped set of copper or PVC pipes bypasses the original plumbing to allow the water to run through the softener before returning to the pipes and being distributed into the various appliances, sinks, and other plumbing fixtures in the house. A loop keeps the water flowing and improves quality. While it is not required, it is often recommended to avoid stagnation of the water sitting in the pipes that can lead to further mineral buildup.
Water Well Inspector
It costs an average of $300 to $500 to hire a water well inspector. To determine the hardness level of your water, you need an inspection. You need to know the hardness of your water to purchase a softener of the appropriate capacity that can remove enough of the mineral deposits to provide you with better quality water. A water well inspector will come and take care of this for you, test the water for hardness and mineral content, and provide you with a report after the assessment and tests are complete. It is important to hire a professional for this test so that you get an accurate result.
Whole House Water Filter and Softener System
The cost of installing a water softener and filter system ranges from $1,500 to $10,000. If you want to upgrade your entire home water system, you could choose to have a whole house water filter and softener system installed instead of just a softener. This allows you to filter and remove minerals that create hard water at the same time. However, it is a much bigger job since it involves installing two units and modifying the plumbing and electrical to get the systems in place. However, it guarantees that your family will always have clean, fresh, treated water to drink right at home, making the water softening and filtration system cost worth it for most people.
Tankless Water Softener
The average cost of a tankless water softener ranges from $1,000 to $3,500, with installation included. A tankless water softening system is a system that is specifically built for tankless water heaters and designed to be installed alongside them or as a part of the main unit to provide water softening. These tankless systems work differently from standard tank water heaters, so there are different softener systems available. You may want to ask your installer which type of system would be best or if you need to choose a tankless unit specifically.
Additional Considerations and Costs
- Sodium. Some water softening systems add sodium to your water. If you are on a low-sodium diet, you may need to avoid drinking this water entirely. Otherwise, it will be safe for anyone to drink.
- Modifications. Suppose there are any modifications that you need in addition to the softener installation, including framing, electrical, plumbing, or HVAC work. Those are not included in the estimated installation costs and will incur an additional charge.
- Permits. Some areas may require permits for the installation of water softeners. Always check with your municipality or town hall before proceeding with the installation.
- Repair vs replacement. If your system is less than five years old and breaks down, consider a repair instead of a full replacement because it might still be under warranty.
- Certification. Look for softeners certified by NSF International, an independent testing organization, or the Water Quality Association.
- Portable distillers. If you need to soften small amounts of water for equipment use, portable distilling units are available that can make a difference. They are not effective at helping a home’s water supply, however.
FAQs
- Where do you install a water softener?
A water softener is typically installed in the basement or garage, further away from the living space. Some will be installed near the water heater, but the idea is to keep it away from the main spaces.
- How much does a plumber charge to install a water softener?
A plumber will typically charge between $100 and $1,000 to install a water softener, depending on the required installation labor.
- Can I install a water softener myself?
Although some units offer DIY installation, this is a major plumbing job that should always be left to trained professionals.
- Does Home Depot install water softeners?
Yes, the Home Depot installs water softeners at the cost of $2,500 to $6,000, depending on the size of the unit and the installation work required.
- How much does it cost to have a water softener installed?
The average cost to install an ion exchange system is around $1,100 to $3,000, with most people spending around $2,500 on this project.
- Does a water softener need a drain?
Most water softener systems require either a drain or sump pump to get rid of the backwash.
- Can water softeners be installed outside?
These systems are designed for interior use only.
- How long should a water softener last?
Water softeners last roughly between 10 to 15 years.
- Do water softeners need to be serviced?
Some systems should be serviced every two to three years. Check with your installer for more information.
- How do I size a water softener for my house?
Have your water tested to find the hardness level, then check your water bill for your water usage. Multiply the number of gallons you use a day by the hardness level, and then multiply by 10 to find your GPG (grains per gallon) rate for your house.
How much does it cost to install a water softener in my city?
Cost to install a water softener varies greatly by region (and even by zip code). To get free estimates from local contractors, please indicate yours.
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