Top Water Softener Companies in Columbus

The cost of a water softener is between $200 and $6,000, and most homeowners spend around $1,500 for their system and labor to install it. The cost range is so wide because many factors affect pricing, including the following:

• Size of the water softener system

• Type of system 

• Accessibility of the installation site

• Extent of the plumbing work required to route your water main to the softener

• Whether or not you need electrical work completed to connect your system

It’s sometimes possible to install a water softener yourself, but it’s usually better to hire a water softener professional to get the job done. Water softeners involve plumbing and electrical work, which usually require permits and a certified expert to sign off on the work. Not only is it dangerous to work with these utility lines, but it’s also not legal in many areas. Plus, improper installation or system sizing might not fix your hard water issue and could lead to an increased risk of leaks, fires, and other property damage. 

Whether or not your water softener installation requires a permit depends on where you live; some municipalities only let certified plumbers and electricians pull the necessary permits and complete the work, others only require a professional to sign off on the work, and some don’t mandate permits at all. You can contact your local building department to find out, but you can also ask a local water softener installer or plumber to see if a permit is necessary. They will usually pull the permits for you and can help close them out after the work is complete.

Water softeners are worth the investment if you live in an area with hard water. Hard water contains minerals like calcium and magnesium that can wreak havoc on your plumbing system, fixtures, and appliances over time. Plumbing repairs for damage done by hard water can easily reach into the thousands of dollars, meaning a water softener is well worth the higher upfront price. Water softeners also tend to increase your home value in areas with hard water, making them even more valuable in the long run.

The upfront price is the most significant downside to installing a water softener, even though the cost is justifiable. Another downside is that the water from your faucets will taste different, and some homeowners don’t like the vague salinity of softened water. That could mean investing in filtration systems or resorting to bottled water for drinking and cooking. Finally, water that is too soft can corrode your plumbing pipes over time. However, having a professional install your system should help you avoid over-softening your water and causing issues.