Best water softener pros near Vance, AL

Q: What is the difference between a water softener and a water filter, and which one do I need?

• <div><p>The primary difference between a water softener and a water filter lies in what they remove from the water. A water softener is designed to remove hard minerals like calcium and magnesium. In contrast, a water filter has a broader effect, removing various contaminants above a certain size, which can include bacteria and other impurities.</p><p>To decide which you need, consider your goal. If you want to eliminate hard minerals, choose a softener. If you want to remove a wide range of contaminants, a filter is the better option. Filters are also generally less expensive to install. Depending on your water supply, you may need to install both for comprehensive treatment.</p></div>

Q: Which areas of the U.S. have hard water?

• <div><p>Most of the U.S. has hard water, especially across portions of the West and Midwest. The areas with the hardest water include parts of Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, Wyoming, Illinois, North and South Dakota, Ohio, and New York. You&rsquo;ll find soft water in parts of New England, the Southeast, the Pacific Northwest, and Hawaii.</p></div>

Q: How can I make my house water softer?

• <div><p>A water softener removes minerals from your drinking water and can make your house water softer. These softeners are designed to extend the lifetime of your plumbing system while also making water safer and more palatable for drinking. Hard water, which is water with a heavy amount of suspended particles, can also cause hair damage, skin irritation, and buildup in your pipes. </p></div>

Q: Do you need a permit or license to install a water softener?

• <div><p>Whether you need a permit or license for a water softener installation depends on your location, as requirements vary significantly. Some municipalities require the installer to hold a plumbing license, some mandate a permit and an inspection, and others require both. In some areas, no special permit or license is needed at all.</p><p>To determine the rules in your area, you can contact your local building department or consult a local water softener installer or plumber. Often, only certified professionals are authorized to pull the necessary permits, and they will typically handle the entire permitting process for you. Regardless of local laws, it is always recommended to hire a licensed professional to ensure the system is sized and installed correctly. You can use Angi&rsquo;s state licensing tool to check an installer&rsquo;s license status.</p></div>

Q: Do you need a license or permit to install a water softener?

• <div><p>Whether you need a license or permit for water softener installation depends on your location. Some municipalities require the installer to hold a plumbing license, while others may only require a permit and an inspection. In some cases, both a permit and a licensed installer are necessary, and some areas have no requirements at all. Often, only certified plumbers and electricians are allowed to pull the necessary permits. To find out the specific regulations in your area, you can contact your local building department. Alternatively, a local water softener installer or plumber will be familiar with the requirements and can typically pull the permits for you. Regardless of local laws, it is always recommended to hire a licensed professional to ensure the system is sized and installed correctly. You can use tools like Angi&rsquo;s state licensing tool to verify an installer's license status.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Water Softener Service pros in Vance, AL

*The Angi rating for Water Softener Service companies in Vance, AL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Water Softener Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Water Softener Service companies in Vance, AL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Water Softener Service needs.

Last update on May 06, 2025

Reviewed in May 2025
Do not use this company! In April 2025, a serviceman came out to repair my refrigerator ice-maker, the part needed ordered so I paid and awaited them to contact me. Several days later, there was standing water in the kitchen floor, under the cabinets and in the exterior wall. I took photos and...
Christie's Appliance
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Reviewed in August 2023
In all fairness, I did not allow them to do the work, so I cannot rate them fairly. The plumber wanted to rebuild a brand new toilet, which was not necessary. I was pleased that he checked the water heater, and he checked the pressure, and explained my options. He wanted to install a new water...
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Birmingham
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Reviewed in February 2021
My tankless water heater suddenly developed a leak in the area of the heat exchanger. Unfortunately, that meant my entire family and I were without hot water. Very tough situation with two young kids. I called a different company out first and was dissatisfied with their pricing and service. I...
Coleson Plumbing & Gas
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Reviewed in August 2016
Very well. They showed up on time and made what could have been a major project a simple 'fix.' But it was a good fix. Although my house is only 9 years old, the main water supply is galvanized pipe. the pipe had developed a pin hole and was leaking up through the ground above. The plumber...
Spanky's Pumping Service
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Reviewed in May 2016
We had a retaining wall and driveway with serious, complicated water drainage problems. Jeremy had plans for eliminating the water issue and stated he would get it corrected and that he did! Jeremy King of JK Construction just completed the job at the agreed on price and on schedule. He...
JK Construction, LLC
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Reviewed in December 2015
Guys came out after 6pm, pulled pump out. Power cord had become disconnected from pump and they reattached it. Husband supplied end connectors. Found problem-soon-to-happen with holes wearing on another valve and replaced it. Had water by 9:30pm. Nice guys seemed to know their stuff. Just...
Keith The Plumber, LLC
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Reviewed in October 2015
My 15 year old water heater was leaking water in the basement. I called them and asked that they install a new water heater. They were friendly and professional. They said they would call me back with a price and time they would be there. I requested they call me on my cell phone and gave...
Sentry Heating, Air, Plumbing & Generators
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Reviewed in September 2015
We were experiencing minor plumbing issues like sinks not draining well and dripping faucets. We also ave a water heater which makes very strange noises when hot water is needed. It sounds similiar to a thunderstorm. He recommended to buy a new heater. <br />
Cahaba Plumbing
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Reviewed in November 2014
Jason was very responsive to our service call. He is a professional in all ways. He gave us a great price with a senior's discount and even informed us of our local gas company's rebate for replacement units ($350.00). <br /> We had already turned off the gas and water and even drained the...
Chapman Plumbing
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Reviewed in September 2014
Put new faucet in bathroom, new shower sprayer .checked water pressure.
Wilbur's Air Conditioning Heating & Plumbing
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Top-Rated Water softener pros in Vance - Updated Nov 2026

Aqua Systems of Birmingham

4.5(

)

Water Treatment & Purification System - Install or ReplaceWater Treatment & Purification System - Repair or Service

Serving Vance, AL and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1999

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Chris, from Aqua Systems thoroughly explained how their water softener worked and would enhance the quality of our water (very hard water in a limestone quarry area). We purchased their SmartChoice Gen II model. Installation was delayed three days due to a large project, but they notified us well in advance. Jarred and Robby completed a clean, quick, and efficient installation. They thoroughly explained the system operation and left their cell numbers in case we needed help. The control module also displays an Aqua Systems contact number for help. Within 24 hours, both the hot and cold water felt different and the water taste was improved. Our system has been in 7 days, the water feels silky. My wife's makeup washes off completely with soap and water. Our towels feel softer. Our dishes, especially the glasses, look cleaner. Aqua Systems can analyze you water and recommend a product that will help you - we're very happy with their product and installation."

+100

Response time8 hrs

Response rate89%

40 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Brasher Plumbing Solutions LLC

4.9(

)

Water Treatment & Purification System - Install or ReplaceWater Treatment & Purification System - Repair or ServiceWell Pump - Repair or Service

Serving Vance, AL and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2022

Warranties offered

Small jobs welcome

"Very professional and clean, came in at 1/2 the price of another local plumbing company."

+27

Response time4 hrs

5 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by5%of homeowners

Request Quote

Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Birmingham

4.4(

239

)

Water Treatment & Purification System - Install or ReplaceWater Treatment & Purification System - Repair or Service

Serving Vance, AL and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2009

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Broken water pipe in wall ."

Response time10 mins

318 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by86%of homeowners

Water Treatment & Purification System - Install or ReplaceWater Treatment & Purification System - Repair or Service

Serving Vance, AL and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2008

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Randy was very professional. Aon Water Technology is a good company to work with"

Response time10 hrs

Response rate87%

60 neighbors recently requested a quote

Well Pump - Repair or Service

Serving Vance, AL and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2000

Emergency services offered

Warranties offered

"Very good knowledgeable local guys that did a great job. Honest and trustworthy and I would use them again if well or water needs arise."

Commercial Filtration for multiple houses

Response time10 hrs

9 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Aqua Systems of Alabama

4.7(

)

Water Treatment & Purification System - Install or ReplaceWater Treatment & Purification System - Repair or Service

Serving Vance, AL and surrounding areas

In business since 1959

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"It took a little while to figure out what they needed to do, but they finally gave us a new resin for our water softener which has helped it to work much better. They also assisted us in getting the grains set properly on the water softener. They took a water sample for an iron test but did not call us back on the results. Their pricing was better than others."

+161

Response time7 hrs

Response rate100%

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Meeks Environmental Services

4.8(

)

Well Pump - Repair or Service

Serving Vance, AL and surrounding areas

In business since 1957

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

"They did a wonderful job. Main pipe behind kitchen sick was cracked and they repaired it and water had leaked down to the downstairs. They also repaired a downstairs pipe.
"

Recommended by98%of homeowners

Request Quote

Benjamin Franklin Plumbing

4.0(

)

Water Treatment & Purification System - Install or ReplaceWater Treatment & Purification System - Repair or Service

Serving Vance, AL and surrounding areas

Emergency services offered

Warranties offered

Credit card accepted

"It was expensive but I think it was about $200. But you know who your repair, when it's coming, they're in uniform and you don't have any but cracks.

I've actually used them since, I've had them here 99 and I've used that company since then when I've needed plumbing repairs.
I've never been disappointed, they come promptly. There's never an after hour service charge, there's lots of things that have drawn me back plus they do the work correctly and clean up after themselves."

Recommended by78%of homeowners

Well Pump - Repair or Service

Serving Vance, AL and surrounding areas

In business since 1998

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Free Estimates within 20 miles radius from Fosters, AL.

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Water Treatment & Purification System - Install or ReplaceWater Treatment & Purification System - Repair or ServiceWell Pump - Repair or Service

Serving Vance, AL and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

"He was able to quickly diagnose that the water leak from the water heater was a result of a ruptured tank, resulting in the need to replace the entire water heater."

Recommended by81%of homeowners

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Showing 1-10 of 33

Water Softeners FAQs, answered by experts

The primary difference between a water softener and a water filter lies in what they remove from the water. A water softener is designed to remove hard minerals like calcium and magnesium. In contrast, a water filter has a broader effect, removing various contaminants above a certain size, which can include bacteria and other impurities.

To decide which you need, consider your goal. If you want to eliminate hard minerals, choose a softener. If you want to remove a wide range of contaminants, a filter is the better option. Filters are also generally less expensive to install. Depending on your water supply, you may need to install both for comprehensive treatment.

Most of the U.S. has hard water, especially across portions of the West and Midwest. The areas with the hardest water include parts of Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, Wyoming, Illinois, North and South Dakota, Ohio, and New York. You’ll find soft water in parts of New England, the Southeast, the Pacific Northwest, and Hawaii.

A water softener removes minerals from your drinking water and can make your house water softer. These softeners are designed to extend the lifetime of your plumbing system while also making water safer and more palatable for drinking. Hard water, which is water with a heavy amount of suspended particles, can also cause hair damage, skin irritation, and buildup in your pipes.

Whether you need a permit or license for a water softener installation depends on your location, as requirements vary significantly. Some municipalities require the installer to hold a plumbing license, some mandate a permit and an inspection, and others require both. In some areas, no special permit or license is needed at all.

To determine the rules in your area, you can contact your local building department or consult a local water softener installer or plumber. Often, only certified professionals are authorized to pull the necessary permits, and they will typically handle the entire permitting process for you. Regardless of local laws, it is always recommended to hire a licensed professional to ensure the system is sized and installed correctly. You can use Angi’s state licensing tool to check an installer’s license status.

Whether you need a license or permit for water softener installation depends on your location. Some municipalities require the installer to hold a plumbing license, while others may only require a permit and an inspection. In some cases, both a permit and a licensed installer are necessary, and some areas have no requirements at all. Often, only certified plumbers and electricians are allowed to pull the necessary permits. To find out the specific regulations in your area, you can contact your local building department. Alternatively, a local water softener installer or plumber will be familiar with the requirements and can typically pull the permits for you. Regardless of local laws, it is always recommended to hire a licensed professional to ensure the system is sized and installed correctly. You can use tools like Angi’s state licensing tool to verify an installer's license status.

The Vance, AL homeowners’ guide to water softener services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Paige Bennett
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
What Is a Water Softener and Is It Right for Your Home?
Water softeners remove minerals from hard water in your home and make your water more pleasant to use. Learn more about how they work here.
Allie Ogletree
•
Jul 15, 2026Jul 15, 2026
How a Water Softener Works: Comprehensive Guide
Water softeners work to remove unwanted minerals from hard water through a filtration and recharge cycle. Keep reading to learn how a water softener works.
Taylor Sansano
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
4 Water Softener Alternatives That Ditch the Salt
There are four common softener alternatives available on the market today. We compare and contrast each one to help you find your best-fit solution in this blog.
Becca Stokes
•
Jul 8, 2026Jul 8, 2026
Water Softener Regeneration: A Brilliantly Discreet Method for Removing Hard Water
Water softeners rid your home of hard minerals and, well, soften your water. Even better, the regeneration process is an automatic cycle that works when you’re least likely to use it.
Dan Simms
•
Aug 1, 2026Aug 1, 2026
How to Inspect Your Water Softener in 9 Simple Steps
Your water softener works overtime to keep your water safe. Use this guide on how to check your water heater for damage or poor performance.
Allie Ogletree
•
Aug 4, 2026Aug 4, 2026
Give Your Water a Gentle Touch With These Efficient Water Softeners
Water softeners remove hard minerals from your tap water, improving plumbing systems and water-using appliances. Here are the most efficient water softeners out there.