How Much Does a Water Softener Repair Cost? [2025 Data]

Water softeners work by removing "hard" minerals from drinking water, like calcium and magnesium, to make it "softer.” It typically costs between {{nationalAvgRangeMinCost}} and {{nationalAvgRangeMaxCost}} to repair a water softener, but the cost can reach as high as {{nationalMaxCost}} or more. While hard water isn't a health hazard, it can create issues like unsightly mineral build-up around your faucets, slow-draining fixtures, stiff and faded laundry, and dry and itchy skin after showering. If you notice any of these issues, then you might have a water softener problem.

How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Water Softener?

The average cost to repair a water softener starts at $553 but can climb as high as $2,500 or more depending on the water system's size and the complexity of the problem. For instance, if you have a small water softener system installed under the sink, it will generally cost less to repair than if the water softener is part of a whole-house water treatment system.

Most homeowners pay somewhere between $162 and $978 for water softener repair.

How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Water Softener by Type?

There are several types of water softeners, many of which are part of larger water treatment systems. The cost to repair them varies by the type you have and the size of the water softener.

Reverse Osmosis System

Reverse osmosis systems work by filtering water through a membrane to remove calcium, magnesium, and other impurities. A plumber can typically repair a reverse osmosis system in one to three hours, and they usually charge $45 to $150 per hour. Therefore, you can expect to pay around $45 to $450, on average, for this repair. 

Undersink Filter

Undersink filters are a relatively inexpensive type of water filters that you install under a single fixture, like a sink. They're typically simple systems that filter water before sending it to a dedicated filtered water faucet, which usually sits next to a standard faucet. It generally costs $150 to $300 to repair these filters, but since these systems typically cost $50 to $500 to replace, it often makes more sense financially to replace the whole system rather than repair it. 

Whole-House Water System

If your water softener is part of a whole-house water system, then it can be more complicated (and expensive) to fix than if you have a basic undersink filter or reverse osmosis system. Because these systems are complex, the cost to repair them can fall anywhere between $50 to $800 depending on the specific problem. For instance, if there's a leak, then you'll likely pay around $150 to $300 to repair it, but if you only need to replace a hose or other small part, then you might only need to pay $5 to $50.

How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Water Softener by Component?

Several components make up water softeners. Often, repairing a water softener involves replacing one or more of these components.

Brine Tank Replacement

Many water softeners have brine tanks that contain a concentrated salt or potassium solution to help filter water for drinking. If you have a broken brine tank, you're looking at about $125 to $700 to replace it. 

Resin Bead Replacement

Some water softeners feature tanks filled with polystyrene resin beads that filter the water as it flows through them. The beads have a negative charge that attracts positively charged particles, like calcium and magnesium, thereby pulling them out of the water and softening it for drinking. Over time, these beads become oversaturated with the minerals they're filtering and need to be replaced. It typically costs around $200 to $400 to replace resin beads. 

Filter Replacement

Multistage filters are composed of multiple filter materials, usually stacked in layers, that filter water in various stages. Generally, it costs about $25 to $500 to replace these filters. 

Whole System Replacement

Water softeners typically last for between 10 to 15 years, so if you've had your system for 10 or more years and it's giving you trouble, then you might want to replace rather than repair it. The cost to replace the whole system typically ranges from $1,000 to $6,000. It’s more expensive than a standalone repair, but it might save you money in the long run rather than paying for water softener maintenance multiple times.

What Factors Influence the Cost to Repair a Water Softener?

When you’re budgeting for water softener repair, factors like the type of softener, components needed, and labor will impact the final project price. 

Water Softener Type

There are several types of water softeners, and the type you have can greatly affect the cost of repairing it. For example, standalone water softeners, like under-sink filters, generally cost less to fix than water softeners that are part of a whole-house water treatment system since whole-house systems are usually quite complex and take more time to fix. 

Component Type

Ever wondered how a water softener works? They are made up of several components depending on the type of water softener you have. The cost to repair or replace these components can vary quite a bit. For example, if you simply need to replace a hose, then it'll likely only cost you about $5 to $50, but if you need a brand new brine tank, then you're looking at $125 to $700 to replace it. 

Labor Costs

If you decide to hire a pro to repair your water softener, then you'll need to pay labor costs in addition to the costs of any materials needed to fix the problem. Plumbers generally charge $45 to $150 per hour, and it typically takes one to three hours to repair a water softener depending on the complexity of the problem.

Why You Should Hire a Water Softener Repair Pro

Repairing your water softener yourself can save you money by avoiding labor costs, which range from $45 to $150 per hour. The only costs you'll be responsible for are those associated with the tools and materials needed to fix the problem, such as a new hose, which you can often find for $5 to $50.

That said, water softener repairs can be complex, especially if your softener is connected to a whole-house water treatment system. Unless you have plumbing expertise, it’s best to hire a local water softener repair specialist. 

Here’s why it’s ideal to hire a water softener repair pro

Repairing a water softener isn’t a simple DIY job. Here’s why it’s best to hire an experienced pro for the job:

• DIY repairs can lead to water damage, system failure, and costly problems.

• Experienced pros have the specialized tools and expertise to repair water softeners without causing further damage.

• Professionals know how to safely work with water lines, valves, and electrical components.

• Reputable pros offer service guarantees for added peace of mind.

• Experts can complete repairs quickly, protecting your plumbing and extending your system's lifespan.

If you want to DIY a water softener repair

If you want to assist with the repair process, focus on smaller tasks such as:

• Removing furniture, rugs, and decor from the area around your water softener

• Cleaning the surrounding area and clearing obstacles so your pro has easy access

• Checking and refilling the salt tank under your pro’s guidance

• Handing your pro tools as needed while they work

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We’ve surveyed thousands of real Angi customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

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