Last Updated: November 30, 2023
Is the “How much does a water softener cost” question a challenge for you? Your confusion of scrolling through pages on the internet comes to an end. By conducting an in-depth analysis and contacting different brands, I have found the accurate prices and I invite you to explore my findings to clear out your doubts as well. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Quick Answer
Before you invest in anything, let me help you narrow down those options by getting to know the crucial knowledge that I found the hard way through experience and research. Always consider the factors mentioned below:
- Brand of the water softener system (For Pelican around $1700, and for Water Right around $2500);
- Type of the water softener systems (Example: Salt-free or Ion exchange unit);
- Cost of maintenance water softener systems;
- Size of your family or home.
Now that I have helped you funnel down the criteria for choosing a suitable water softener system. Continue reading and learn more about the types, pricing, brand, and more. Let me help you make a sound decision by providing factual and rich information. Let’s dive in!
Related article: How Much Do Culligan Water Softeners Cost | Price Reveal – Water Treatment
Water Softener System Cost
A residential water softener typically costs from $150 to $2000, not including installation. But, if you want to add the labor cost to this equation too, then you should pay an extra $200 – $500. You will also need to spend $10-20 dollars a month on operating costs and salt refills.
There are a number of factors that can affect the cost of a water softener, including:
- The type and size of the unit
- The features included
- Where you live
- The brand you purchase
You can expect the following costs when purchasing a water softener:
- Whole-house systems cost more than $2,000.
- Point-of-use systems are typically less expensive, starting at around $150.
Before making a purchase, it’s important to compare different brands and models to find the best water filtration system for your needs and budget.
Ion Exchange Water Softener Costs
The cost of an ion exchange water softener is related to its treatment capacity. That is, the greater the softening capacity of the resin bed in cubic feet, the more expensive the system. Resin beds are usually rated in grains per gallon (gpg).
- A typical water softener might have a resin bed that can soften up to 60,000 gpg.
- The cost for such a system might be around $500 but could be sold for as much as $2,000.
Salt-free Water Softeners Cost To Install
Salt-free water conditioners do not use salt but work in one of two ways – a physical process called chelation and water conditioning through Template Assisted Crystallization (TAC).
- The cost of such a system might be around $500 but could sell for as much as $4,000.
- Installation costs will be about the same as those for a conventional water softener.
Read my detailed article on salt-free water conditioners.
Dual Tank System Costs
A nice feature to have in your water softener is dual tanks. This configuration has two resin vessels instead of one:
- One tank is in service, treating your water;
- The other tank is being regenerated.
This setup ensures your system can meet peak demand and deliver soft water. The cost for this type of system will be higher than for a single-tank water softener, but it’s worth the investment.
- You can expect to pay an additional $800 on average for a dual-tank system.
Installation costs will also be higher since the tanks and control valves must be placed in a specific sequence for the system to work properly.
Point-of-Use Reverse Osmosis
A point-of-use osmosis system is ideal for the kitchen or places requiring water for consumption. I got my water softener installed in the kitchen which is perfect for providing water for cooking, drinking, and cleaning the dishes.
The installation process did not cause much hassle as I had a separate faucet which was the perfect fixture for this system.
- The Point-of-Use RO costs around $150 to $1300;
- The setup typically costs around $100 to $500.
Related article: Lowe’s Water Softener Installation Cost: A Comprehensive Guide – Water Treatment
Whole-House Reverse Osmosis
Something interesting that came across my research was “whole-house reverse osmosis” systems. No magnets and no salt are involved in this type of setup instead there are semi-permeable membranes to filter out the contaminants.
The water passes through a layer of membrane filters that catches any unwanted particles softening the water. This type of water softener system sounds attractive but I would only recommend this if you have the budget for it as the filters need to be replaced and they are very pricey.
- I found that this type of water-softening system has a price tag of $1,000 to $4,200 or even more.
Magnetic Water Softener Systems
After thorough research, I found out that hard water is the cause of alteration of the taste and quality of water. To battle this problem, magnetic water softeners are the best solution. These high-end systems make use of electromagnetic coils to attract certain particles (hard minerals) such as calcium and magnesium.
- There is no need for refill (salt) in these water softeners which I found as a plus point.
- The only downside was that they could only remove minerals that reach near the coils of the system.
To verify my findings, I ventured to the closest Walmart and explored that:
- The different options range from $200 to $600.
Water Distiller
Have you ever performed a distillation experiment in your school? I did! Upon close inspection, I found out that a water distiller works on the same concept. To filter out the contaminants, the system turns water into vapor by heating it and then condenses it to form water again.
This method of filtering water is effective as it can get rid of the drinking water:
- Bacteria;
- Heavy metals;
- Impurities.
I have experienced using this system and found out that it always offers highly purified water. Compared to the “whole house system”, this is a better investment in my opinion as:
Water softeners must be regenerated periodically. You can opt for a basic mechanical timer that will regenerate the system at preset intervals, or you can choose a digital timer. You can also get a unit that initiates the regeneration cycle based on the volume of water treated. This ensures your system is always working at its best. If you want the convenience of digital controls, be prepared to pay a little extra. The treatment capacity of water softeners is measured in grains per gallon (gpg). The higher the capacity, the more expensive the system. Water Softener Size Capacity Cost Range 24,000 grains 0 – 3,500 gpg $300 – $600 32,000 grains 3,501 – 4,500 gpg $400 – $1,000 48,000 grains 4,501 – 6,850 gpg $500 – $1,200 64,000 grains 6,851 – 9,150 gpg $1,000 – $1,500 80,000 grains 9,151 – 11,500 gpg $1,200 – $1,800 Not all water softener brands are created equal. Generally speaking, brands that are known for high quality tend to be more expensive than those that are not. If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line system, expect to pay a premium. However, it’s important to do your research to make sure you’re getting a quality product. The following table lists the water softener purchase cost for 12 of the most popular brands. It includes the cost for a low-end and high-end unit as well as the average cost. Brand Low-Range Average High Range Culligan $400 $2,700 $ Kinetico $500 $2,750 $5,000 Pelican $800 $1,700 $2,600 Westinghouse $900 $2,700 $4,500 Alamo $1,000 $2,500 $4,000 Harvey $1,050 $1,713 $2,375 Sterling $1,200 $1,450 $1,700 Avantapure $1,600 $4,300 $7,000 Water Right $2,000 $2,500 $3,000 Rainsoft $2,750 $4,375 $6,000 Dupure $600 $800 $1,000 Hellenbrand $1,200 $1,850 $2,500 Read my article on the cost of a Culligan water softener for a detailed discussion of this brand. When it comes to installation, there are a few things to consider: Hiring a professional to install a water softener was an extremely wise decision that I made. Doing so ensured proper installation and helped in avoiding potential mishaps. By performing extensive market research, I came across different costs of labor (charges varied as per the installer’s demand and the complexity of the installation). The prices ranged from $200 – $500 for labor. I also found that additional costs included plumbing modifications that can cost $500 to $2,000. Here are some critical tips for hiring a local plumber to install the water softener systems at your home: Read my step-by-step guide on how to install a water softener. Do you want to know how much it costs to have the Home Depot install your water softener? So did I. I went down to my local Home Depot and asked. Unfortunately, they don’t provide quotes in the store. You have to make an appointment for one of their contractors to inspect your home. Since I was considering a purchase, I made the appointment and a professional estimator came to my house a week later. The quote for Home Depot to install my water softener was $2,800. This included: I checked with other people who have had Home Depot install water softeners. The range of prices for Home Depot to install a water softener is between $1,100 and $3,600. Read my article Is Home Depot Water Softener Installation Worth the Cost to learn a lot more. Lowe’s provides water softener installation services. The cost to have Lowe’s install your water softener will vary depending on a few factors, but the average cost is $1,450. Variables that can affect the installation cost include: Lowe’s provides a one-year warranty with installation. Lowes offers financing to help you afford the purchase and installation of your water softener. They also offer deals with your Lowe’s credit card such as discounts and no interest charges for up to 6 months. Related article: Is Home Depot Water Softener Installation Worth the Cost – Water Treatment Some municipalities don’t require permits at all, while others charge a significant fee. If you live in a municipality that requires permits for water softener installation, the cost of those permits will be added to the overall installation cost. If you’re comfortable doing the installation yourself, you can save a significant amount of money. In addition to the equipment and installation costs, you’ll also need to factor in the cost to operate your water softener and keep it in good working condition. Some of these ongoing costs can be higher than the cost of the softener, so you need to consider them in your purchasing decision. Over the life of your system, the water softener installation costs aren’t the most significant. The long-term costs can be 10 times what you pay for the softener. The following table summarizes the major costs associated with water softener maintenance and repair. Expense Cost Unit Repairs and Maintenance $150 – $900 year Potassium Salt $120 – $500 year Professional service $5 – $10 40-lb bag Salt $50 – $70 40-lb bag Ion Exchange Resin $90 – $130 bag Cleaner $8 – $20 container Rust/scale remover $5 – $10 container Like all appliances, a home water softener requires regular maintenance to keep it running efficiently. Most systems need to be cleaned and flushed annually to remove any built-up sediment or deposits. They also require disinfection to ensure harmful bacteria aren’t growing in the resin vessel or brine tank. This process is relatively simple, but it can be time-consuming and may require the help of a professional. The cost of this service will vary depending on where you live and the company you use. You can also save money by cleaning and sanitizing the system yourself, but it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Salt is used to regenerate the resin beads in the water softener, so it’s an essential part of the system. The price of salt can vary depending on where you live and the type of salt you purchase. Most water softeners require between 40 and 80 pounds of salt per month, so the cost can add up over time. You may be able to save money by buying in bulk or by switching to a less expensive brand of salt. All ion exchange water softeners waste some amount of water because they have to regenerate the spent resin. The amount of water wasted will vary depending on the size and type of softener, but it’s typically between two and six gallons per regeneration. If you pay for public water and sewer, this is an added cost. Fortunately, it’s not significant, but you should be aware of this aspect of water conditioners. It is important to monitor your water softener to ensure it’s working properly and reducing your water’s hardness. An important way to check how well the softener is working is to test the water hardness. The cost of testing will depend on the method you choose and the company you use. Having your system inspected and serviced on a regular basis is an important way to keep it running efficiently and prolong its life. Most water softener companies offer a service contract that includes regular inspections and maintenance. The cost of this service will vary depending on the company you use, but it’s typically less expensive than paying for repairs or replacement parts if something goes wrong with the system. My friend Liam chose a rented water softener. When I had a discussion with him about this system, he told me that it’s one of the suitable options available. This price ranges between $25 and $50 every month. Hence, he finds it as an ideal option to suit budget restrictions. And, I can’t disagree with his findings. Renting out provides an opportunity for one to sample the system without commitment. This also helps in reducing the risks of buying when you have doubts about the right choice to make. This is a personal choice that depends upon the requirement and ease of use. Having a water softener in your home can be a great way to improve the quality of your water and save money on energy costs. It’s important to note, however, that not all softeners are created equal. The cost of a water softener varies depending on the type of softener you buy, the size of your home, and the hardness of your water. An important factor in the overall cost of your water softener is the system’s capacity. This is determined by the hardness of your water and how much water you use on a daily basis. A larger system will be more expensive than a smaller one, and it’s important to choose one that can handle all of your needs. The good news is that most homeowners only need a standard residential water softener. This type of water softener system typically has a capacity of between 15,000 and 30,000 grains of hardness removal. Hard water contains significant amounts of mineral buildup such as calcium and magnesium. I have personally experienced a thin coating around my sink and noticed spots on dishes. Furthermore, a friend of mine, Sara told me that it causes the formation of sludge in appliance pipes, water heaters, and dishwashers. Hard water may be beneficial since it contains calcium and magnesium but it damages equipment and clothing. The water hardness is described as either soft, moderately hard, hard, or very hard. Scale buildup occurs as a result of hard water which differs across the U.S. Here is a table that shows the hardness level of water: Hardness Level Milligrams per Liter Parts per Million Parts per Million Soft 0–60 0–60 0–3.5 Moderately hard | 61–120 61–120 3.5–7 Hard 121–180 121–180 7–10.5 Very hard 180+ 180+ 10.5+ The size of your house will also affect the overall cost of your water softener. A larger home will require a larger water softening system to produce sufficient water for your needs. As you would expect, a larger water softener is more expensive. It’s important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. You may need a larger or smaller system depending on your specific needs. The cost of a water softener will vary depending on whether you treat all of the water that comes into your house or just some of it. A whole-house water softener is more expensive than a point-of-use system, but it’s also more efficient. A whole-house water softener treats all of the water that comes into your home before it enters the plumbing system. This means you won’t have to install a separate unit for different zones or individual appliances in your house. Water softeners come with a variety of options and features. These can affect the overall cost of the system. If you don’t need these extra features, you can save money by choosing a system without them. In general, the more features and options your water softener has, the more expensive it will be. It’s important to select the system that best meets your needs and budget. The cost of installing a water softener may vary depending on where you live. Labor costs can vary significantly depending on the area, so it’s important to get quotes from several different installers. Some areas have more stringent plumbing regulations than others, which can drive up the cost of installation. You may also need to factor in the cost of permits and inspections if they are required in your city or town. There are dozens of water softener brands on the market, and they all have different prices. In general, the more expensive brands are also the most reliable. A low-cost water softener may end up costing you more, especially if it can’t keep up with your home’s water-softening needs. It’s important to do your research and compare different brands before making a purchase. Keep an open mind while you’re doing your research. This will help you find the best system for your needs and budget. If you’re considering buying a water softener, there are a few ways to save money on the cost. Here are a few strategies to get started: Water softeners cost money to buy and install. They also save you money in the long run. Here are some cost savings you can expect from your water softener. Let’s look at a couple of examples of the installation cost for a water softener. In this example, the home has a water softener installed that is sized for a family of three. Their water is very hard – 14 grains per gallon. They use 240 gallons of water per day. Parameter Cost Equipment purchase $1,600 Professional installation $450 Salt for one year $120 Maintenance contract $200 Other costs $50 Total costs $2,420 In this scenario, the homeowners install the softener themselves. They purchase a unit with a flow-based, digital controller and dual tanks. They use 400 gallons per day, and their water has a hardness of 9 gpg. Parameter Cost Equipment purchase $2,860 DIY installation $175 Potassium chloride salt for one year $480 Maintenance contract $310 Other costs $340 Total costs $4,165 A typical cost for installing a water softener in a 5-bedroom house is $1,000 to $3,500. Costs will vary depending on the water hardness, water usage, and options the homeowner chooses. Your softener installation cost can be affected by where you live. The typical water softener uses about 60 pounds of salt each month and about 720 pounds each year. The cost for salt for a water softener is between $144 and $504 per year. The average water softener costs between $200 and $800 per year to maintain. This includes salt, maintenance, and miscellaneous costs. An under-the-counter system for your kitchen and bathroom costs between $200 to $500 or more. How much does it cost to fill a water softener? Summing up how much does a water softener cost depends on various factors like brand, type, and maintenance. On average, a simple water softener can cost you around $600 – $2000. But, if you opt for other systems, the cost can take a turn. A salt-free system can have a price tag ranging from $500 – $4000 whereas, the Magnetic one will only fall between $200 – $600. Nonetheless, whatever system you install, will help you get rid of problems like dry skin, stains on clothes, clogged pipes, etc. You can either install the softener yourself or seek the help of a professional. I would recommend you hire a plumber for a swift installation and to avoid potential mishaps.
Digital versus Mechanical Controls
Water Softener Capacity and Cost
Home New Water Softener Cost By Brand
What is the Water Softener Installation Costs?
Finding a Skilled Professional for an Affordable Water Softener System Installation
Home Depot Water Softener Installation Costs
Lowe’s Water Softener Installation Cost
Permit Costs for Water Softener Installation
DIY Costs for Water Softener Installation
Long-Term Costs of Water Softeners
1. System Maintenance
2. Salt
3. Water Waste
4. Water Testing
5. Routine Inspections and Service Contract
6. Water Softener Rental
What Affects Water Softener System Costs
1. Water Softener System Capacity
2. Water Hardness
3. Your Home’s Size
4. Whole-House versus Point-of-Use Water Softener System
5. Options and Features of Water Softener Systems
6. Where You Live
7. The Brand You Purchase
Strategies to Save Money on Your Water Softener
Cost Savings from Having a Water Softener
Example Costs to Install a Water Softener
Scenario #1: 2-bedroom home with very hard water
Scenario #2: 5-bedroom home with hard water and public water and sewer
FAQs
How much does it cost to install a water softener in a 5-bedroom house?
How much does salt cost for a water softener each year?
How much does a water softener cost to maintain each year?
How much will an under-the-counter system cost to install in my kitchen and bathroom?
How much does it cost to fill a water softener?
Conclusion