Who Installs Water Softeners? Here’s Who to Call

If you’re tired of limescale buildup on everything water touches in your home, frequent appliance issues, and dry skin and hair, it may be time to invest in a water softener. But who installs water softeners? Water softener installation is best handled by a licensed plumber near you or a local water softener technician. They can help you select the right system for your home and avoid potentially costly mistakes. 

Benefits of Hiring a Plumber or Water Softener Technician for Water Softener Installation

Like the many benefits of water softeners themselves, hiring a pro also comes with plenty of perks. While you could install your own water softener, you run the risk of a plumbing mishap. In addition to keeping your home (and wallet) safe, your pro will:

• Perform water hardness tests and calculations to determine the optimal size and type of water softener for your home

• Determine where to install your water softener

• Make sure your installation complies with local building codes

• Uphold your unit’s warranty

Can I Hire an HVAC Technician to Install a Water Softener?

While an HVAC technician may have some overlapping skills with plumbers and water softener technicians, they aren’t the ideal pros for this project. They lack expertise in both plumbing and water treatment systems, so they likely won’t test your water or be able to help you pick the best unit for your home. 

How Do Plumbers and Technicians Install Water Softeners?

Installing a water softener is an expert-level project requiring precision and attention to detail to ensure everything works correctly. Your pro will likely:

1. Test your water hardiness (if you haven’t already) 

2. Help you select the optimal unit and deliver it to your home

3. Determine proper placement and positioning

4. Turn off the water supply

5. Drain the faucets

6. Connect the unit to the water supply line and connect all other components, including flex lines, the brine tank, mineral tank, and drain tubing

7. Turn the water supply back on

8. Start the softener

9. Run a backwash cycle

How Much Does Installing a Water Softener Cost?

The average cost to install a water softener—including the unit's price—is $1,500, but can run as low as $200 or as high as $6,000. Your total cost will depend on several factors, including the type and size of your system, the complexity of the installation, and local labor rates. We recommend getting quotes from at least three companies before making a final decision.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

While it might be tempting to consider a DIY water softener system installation, going it alone presents many obstacles, such as a lack of tools and expertise, the risk of leaks from improper installation, and potentially voiding your unit’s warranty. 

On the flip side, when you work with a pro, you’re guaranteed correct placement, warranty protection, and the peace of mind that you won’t come home to a flooded basement. Professional installation can cost as little as $150, but plan to set aside up to $1,000 for the work. If you decide to DIY, keep in mind that you may need to purchase tools or equipment that may make going it alone simply not worth it.

Unless you’re completely confident you can install a water softener successfully, you should hire a professional plumber or water softener technician.