Log in
Glossary

Water Softener

Water Softener

This appliance removes hard minerals like calcium and magnesium from your household water. It uses special resin beads to catch the minerals before they reach your pipes. This prevents scale buildup in your plumbing so you won't have to scrub as much soap scum.

Reviewed by Jill AshUpdated June 16, 20263 min read

Origin

The concept of softening water dates back to the early 1900s when chemists discovered how certain minerals swap ions. The first residential softeners appeared in US homes during the 1950s.

How you'll see it used

  • The home inspector noted that the water softener was bypassed and recommended having a plumber test the resin tank.
  • Your monthly utility bill might spike slightly because the water softener uses extra water during its nightly regeneration cycle.
  • The plumber's quote included 800 dollars for a new 40,000 grain water softener and 300 dollars for the labor to install it.

What a Water Softener Is

A water softener is a special appliance that removes hard minerals from your household water. It targets calcium and magnesium. These minerals make water hard. The concept of softening water dates back to the early 1900s. Chemists discovered how certain minerals swap ions. The first residential softeners appeared in US homes during the 1950s. Today, these systems sit near where water enters your house. They use a tank filled with tiny resin beads. As water flows through the tank, the beads catch the hard minerals. The system replaces them with a tiny amount of sodium or potassium. This process is called ion exchange. It leaves your water soft before it travels to your sinks and showers.

Why Soft Water Matters

Hard water causes a lot of hidden damage. The minerals build up inside your Plumbing over time. This buildup is called scale. Scale clogs pipes and lowers water pressure. It also forces your water heater to work much harder. A water softener stops this scale from forming.

You will also notice a big difference in your daily chores. Hard water reacts poorly with soap. It creates a sticky soap scum on your glass shower doors and tubs. Soft water lathers easily. You will use less soap and shampoo. Your clothes will come out of the wash feeling softer. Your dishes will not have cloudy water spots. Most importantly, soft water protects your major Appliances. Washing machines and dishwashers last much longer when they do not have to fight hard mineral deposits.

What to Watch For

A water softener is not a set it and forget it machine. You have to maintain it. The system has a second tank called a brine tank. You must keep this tank full of special softener salt. The machine uses this salty water to clean the resin beads on a regular schedule. This cleaning process is called regeneration.

Here are a few things to keep in mind if you own one:

  • Check the salt level once a month. Add more salt bags when the tank is half empty.
  • Look for salt bridges. Sometimes the salt forms a hard crust at the top while the bottom is empty. Break it up with a broom handle.
  • The resin beads wear out over time. You usually need to replace them every 10 to 15 years.
  • Some cities restrict salt based water softeners. Check your local rules before you buy one.
Do not drink water from a standard salt softener if your doctor tells you to eat a strict low sodium diet. The softening process adds a very small amount of salt to your tap water. You might want to install a reverse osmosis filter at your kitchen sink for drinking.

Typical Costs to Install

Buying and installing a new water softener is a common home project. Prices depend on the size of your house and the hardness of your water. Keep in mind that ranges vary based on where you live.

A standard ion exchange water softener unit costs 500 to 1500 dollars at a hardware store. You will also need to pay a plumber to install it. Professional installation usually adds 300 to 800 dollars to the total bill. If your home is not pre plumbed for a softener, the plumber will have to cut into your main water line. This extra pipe work can push the installation cost over 1000 dollars. You can read more about setting a budget in our guide on Hiring Contractors & What Things Cost.

You also have ongoing costs. A 40 pound bag of softener salt costs 6 to 10 dollars. An average family uses one or two bags every month. You will spend about 100 to 200 dollars a year just on salt.

Frequently asked

How often do I need to add salt to my water softener?

You should check the brine tank once a month. Most families need to add one or two 40 pound bags of salt every four to six weeks. Keep the tank at least half full so the system can clean the resin beads properly.

Can I turn off my water softener when I go on vacation?

Yes, you can unplug the unit or put it in bypass mode while you are away. This stops the system from running unnecessary cleaning cycles and wasting water. Just remember to plug it back in and turn off the bypass valve when you get home.

Does a water softener purify my drinking water?

No, a water softener only removes hard minerals like calcium and magnesium to protect your pipes. It does not filter out harmful bacteria, lead, or other dangerous chemicals. You will need a separate water filtration system if you want to purify your drinking water.

More glossary terms

Stud Finder

Stud Finder

This is a small hand tool that locates the hidden wooden framing boards behind your finished walls. It beeps or lights up when you slide it over a board.

 Pop Up Drain

Pop Up Drain

You'll find this stopper assembly inside most bathroom sink basins. You push down on the cap to seal the bowl or pull a small rod behind the faucet to lift it up and let water drain.

 Crisper Drawer

Crisper Drawer

A clear plastic bin at the bottom of your refrigerator designed to store fresh fruits and vegetables. It has a tiny sliding vent that lets you control how much moisture stays inside.
Share this term
Link copied