Get matched with top water softener pros in Ashton, MD

A single shower consumes an average of over 17 gallons, while brushing your teeth with the water running uses up to four unnecessary gallons. Watering the lawn spreads hundreds of gallons of water across the yard each time. Limiting water usage in these areas can significantly cut down your water bill.

The main difference between a water softener and a water filter is what they remove from the water. A water softener is specifically designed to remove hard minerals, while a filter removes a wider range of contaminants above a certain size, such as bacteria and other impurities. If your primary goal is to remove minerals, a softener is the best choice. If you want to remove various contaminants for safety or taste, a filter is more suitable. Filters are also typically less expensive to install. Depending on your water supply's specific issues, you may need to install both systems for comprehensive treatment.

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.

Yes. Hard water is what causes scale buildup, and a whole-house filter provides numerous benefits beyond water softening. Any water that enters your home will go through the filter, which cleans up all water that you will use for cooking, bathing, and drinking. A whole-house water filter also blocks harmful particles like heavy metals.