If you’re considering buying a water softener, one of your main considerations will be the cost of installation. How much will it cost to have someone come to your home and install the softener?
Hard water is a pesky little problem that can ruin your dishes, clothes, and plumbing fixtures. Naturally, you shouldn’t let this issue persist for long. Water softeners are the obvious solution, and Lowe’s is a strong contender to get it from.
In this article, we will explore the cost of water softener installation from Lowe’s and what the service entails.
Lowe’s offers turnkey water softener installation services. The installation costs, including the water softener, range from $600 to a high of $4,600. The installation cost depends on the unit’s size, the options you select, and plumbing requirements such as repairs or additional piping and fittings.
Water softener installation is a big deal for a homeowner, and if you aren’t comfortable with a big DIY home project – you need professional help. The total installation cost will depend on the system’s size and complexity. Lowe’s offers different product options depending on your water softening needs, including complete softening systems, softening salts, and water testing kits.
Learn more about water softeners with my other articles.
Ultimate Guide to Water Softeners: Everything You Need to Know
How to Properly Size a Water Softener: The Definitive Guide
How Much Does a Water Softener Cost?
Table of Contents
What Does Lowe’s Offer in Their Installation Service?
Lowe’s is known as the installation expert with its wide array of services. Water softener installation is no different. The process is pretty simple:
- Select the water softener you want to install
- Purchase the installation from an associate
- An independent installer is assigned to your installation and does the job for you
Here are a few key highlights of the water installation service offered by Lowe’s:
1 – Flexible financing options
Lowe’s offers various credit options for home and business owners, allowing them to purchase water softener systems equipment. These options require you to purchase the Lowe’s Advantage Card and are subject to credit approval. This makes the purchase easy in your pocket and manageable if you are on a tight budget.
2 – Screened installers
Lowe’s operates in collaboration with a strong network of independent installers. These are licensed and insured professionals who are thoroughly screened by Lowe’s. These installers will remove the existing system in place and replace it with a new one.
They are well versed with the local permits and ordinances and meet their requirements too. After the installation is done, not only do they clean the area, but they also explain the necessary system operations to you.
3 – One year labor warranty
You get the product of your choice paired with a one-year warranty on labor as is standard amongst Lowe’s competitors like The Home Depot. This ensures that when you are spending your money, you can do so with peace of mind.
4 – Protection plan
In addition to the one-year warranty, you can go ahead and get the Lowe’s protection plan. This plan will ensure that your water softener system is maintained for three to four years, even after the labor warranty expires. Through this plan, you can get on-site repair service and up to 50% of the materials required for your unit’s upkeep.
Curious to see how Lowe’s installation services compare to Home Depot’s? Read my article on Home Depot water softener costs.
What Are the Kinds of Water Softeners Offered at Lowe’s?
There are three general types of water softening units out there and although all three-treat hard water. The one you choose will depend on your house and family’s needs. Each one of these kinds of units has their individual pros and cons.
| Softener Type | Pros | Cons |
| Ion-Exchange | Easy to install and slim in look | Salt needs to be refilled frequently |
| Dual Tank | Offers large capacity with 24-hour production cycle | Expensive and not very compact. |
| Salt Free | Doesn’t need salt to be refilled | Reduces the buildup of minerals but cannot get rid of hard water completely. |
1 – Ion exchange softener
The most common type of water softener is used to extract calcium and magnesium from your water. The ions in the softener work to replace the ones in calcium and magnesium with potassium and sodium ions – hence the name. This softens the water, which is then regulated back into your system.
2 – Dual-tank softener
This is the largest water softener with two or dual tanks. It works on the same principle as the ion exchange softener. It softens your water by exchanging magnesium and calcium particles with sodium and potassium. However, having two tanks and a large capacity, a dual-tank softener ensures that your house has soft water running around the clock.
3 – Salt-free softener
A salt-free softener is actually more of a water conditioner because it cannot eliminate the hardness of your water. All it does is prevent the build-up of minerals like magnesium and calcium. These are effective at preventing build-up and filtering water across your home but are pricey systems.
Lowe’s offers all three types of water softeners for purchase and installation. Make sure your house has a 110 Volt receptacle within a 10 feet range of the installation site, or it will cost you extra money to have the necessary electricals in place before installation begins.
Related article: How Much Does A Water Softener Cost? Check the Cost for 12 Different Systems
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Best Place to Install a Water Softener in a Home or Building?
The best place to install a water softener is near the entry point of the water and on a flat level surface. If you are using city water, then this will be near the water tank. If you are using well water, then this will be near your pressure tank.
Should You Install a Water Softener?
You should install a water softener if you live in an area with hard water issues. It can soften water to make sure your appliances and clothing are kept safe from mineral buildup. It can also help save your loved ones’ hair and skin from damage.
What is an Alternative for Water Softener?
The closest alternative to a water softener is a water conditioner. It doesn’t eliminate the hardness in the water but can considerably reduce it, so the damage done by it is also reduced.
Final Thoughts
Lowe’s offers flexible water softener installation services in which you can choose the equipment of your preference and have it installed through independent contractors. As compared to other installation services, Lowe’s installation services are on the lower end. We hope this article helps you make the best decision for your water softener installation needs.