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>

Is hard water bad for you?

• <div><p>Hard water isn’t necessarily bad for you. In some ways, it’s good for you. If you’re deficient in magnesium or calcium, hard water can give you a mineral boost that you wouldn’t get with soft water. However, this is where the benefits of hard water pretty much stop. Hard water can cause many minor inconveniences and lead to costly, premature replacements of your water-using appliances.</p></div>

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Q: How do you get rid of heavy hard water deposits?

• <div><p>It depends on the type of surface. For instance, if you&rsquo;re trying to <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-remove-hard-water-stains.htm">get rid of hard water deposits</a> on glass, you can spray vinegar onto the surface and wipe it off with a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge. However, if the deposits are on granite or natural stone, it&rsquo;s better to use baking soda and water rather than vinegar or other acidic cleaners.</p></div>

Q: How can I cut down my water bill?

• <div><p>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. </p></div>

Q: Is hard water bad for you?

• <div><p>Hard water isn&rsquo;t necessarily bad for you. In some ways, it&rsquo;s good for you. If you&rsquo;re deficient in magnesium or calcium, hard water can give you a mineral boost that you wouldn&rsquo;t get with soft water. However, this is where the benefits of hard water pretty much stop. Hard water can cause many minor inconveniences and lead to costly, premature replacements of your water-using appliances.</p></div>

Q: Will a water descaler descale pipes?

• <div><p>No, a water descaler won't descale pipes. The charged water running through the pipes may very slowly dissolve mineral deposits and hold them inside the water, but it's a very gradual process. If your pipes do need descaling, it's much better to get a local plumber to descale your pipes. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Water Softener Service pros in Canton, MN

*The Angi rating for Water Softener Service companies in Canton, MN 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 Canton, MN 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 February 12, 2025

Reviewed in February 2025
Wow! I feel like a new person because my house was saved by Innovative Basement Authority who fixed the flooding problem caused by rain getting into my basement. From the first contact, I felt cared about. When all is said and done, the terrible daunting problem of rain flooding my basement is...
Groundworks
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Reviewed in June 2024
Very considerate & careful when power washing around flowers & lawn ornaments. I have had many compliments on how sparkling clean my house looks now after the power washing!
Dry Creek Soft and Power washing LLC
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Reviewed in May 2024
They replaced all the windows in my home, did not damage any of the original wood work. Kitchen refacing looks amazing
Mad City Windows & Baths
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Reviewed in September 2023
The crew we had working on our house was amazing!! We didn’t know what we would uncover when we decided to replace our siding, soffit and gutters. This team took care of all of it and left us knowing that everything was done correctly. We would highly recommend All Craft for any of your home...
All Craft Exteriors
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Reviewed in March 2023
Goldsmithâ s work on our bathroom project exceeded our expectations! He was professional and friendly. He helped us pick out the best materials and completed the work in just two days! He left our house clean and was respectful of our family as we were at home while he worked. We couldnâ t...
Goldsmith Remodel And Design LLC
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Reviewed in October 2022
Schmidt Roofing responded quickly after the insurance adjustor had assessed the damage. They worked well with our insurance provider to get us the best benefit. They provided us options of which shingles were available. The crew did an amazing job. The job was challenging because of the height...
Schmidt Roofing
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Reviewed in February 2022
As a member of the Smart Club, I appreciate the regular furnace/air conditioning check up. Chee did it this time. I often watch what home repair technicians do during their procedures because I receive a review or learn something new each time. He explained the status of the "health"...
Standard Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc.
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Reviewed in September 2021
Excellent. He was very professional, and carefully explained everything to us. We feel he did a thorough job of inspecting our home .
American Waterworks
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Reviewed in June 2021
We were looking to have some ceiling tiles in our home tested for asbestos prior to some remodeling. After doing some research on home advisor, I found JMAX and John was able to come out the next day. He was friendly, informative and answered all my questions honestly. The results came back a...
JMAX Specialty Contracting, Inc.
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Reviewed in May 2021
We had her to do new house construction clean up before moving in. They did an excellent job.
Ready Maid, LLC
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Find Water softener pros in Canton

K&A Plumbing, LLC

4.9(

)

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

Serving Canton, MN and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2018

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

"Derrick and Eric, did a terrific job, they replaced our water heater the same day that I Called. Derrick even replace a water shut off control that had been bothering us They are a couple of guys that really do a great job for their customers. They are really service oriented. They are my first and only call for my plumbing needs. A +++"

23 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by50%of homeowners

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Water Quality Options

5.0(

)

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

Serving Canton, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Free estimates

"Showed up on time, very courteous and professional........
We bought a water softener ourselves, and Dave basically installed it for us......he provided all the material necessary to do the installation.
Would recommend him to anyone.......
Thanks Dave!
"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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American Home Shield – Home Warranty

3.5(

5,688

)

Well Pump - Repair or Service

Serving Canton, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 1971

Credit card accepted

"He was very nice to talk with and repaired our washing machine. He even helped sweep the water out."

Recommended by65%of homeowners

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Newgaard Plumbing & Heating

5.0(

)

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

Serving Canton, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 1998

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

If it involves plumbing and heating, Newgaard Plumbing & Heating will get the job done! Family owned and operated, Newgaard Plumbing & Heating has been helping families in Southern Minnesota, and the surrounding area, stay comfortable and happy. Call the best, not the rest. We offer same day service, so call today and let us know how we can make you smile!

Response time50 mins

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Water Softeners questions, 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.

It depends on the type of surface. For instance, if you’re trying to get rid of hard water deposits on glass, you can spray vinegar onto the surface and wipe it off with a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge. However, if the deposits are on granite or natural stone, it’s better to use baking soda and water rather than vinegar or other acidic cleaners.

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.

Hard water isn’t necessarily bad for you. In some ways, it’s good for you. If you’re deficient in magnesium or calcium, hard water can give you a mineral boost that you wouldn’t get with soft water. However, this is where the benefits of hard water pretty much stop. Hard water can cause many minor inconveniences and lead to costly, premature replacements of your water-using appliances.

No, a water descaler won't descale pipes. The charged water running through the pipes may very slowly dissolve mineral deposits and hold them inside the water, but it's a very gradual process. If your pipes do need descaling, it's much better to get a local plumber to descale your pipes.

The Canton, MN 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

C.E. Larusso
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Mar 17, 2026Mar 17, 2026
How Much Does Water Softener Installation Cost? [2026 Data]
How much a water softener costs depends on your home’s size, and the system’s type and capacity. Our expert guide explores all the price factors.
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Aug 3, 2026Aug 3, 2026
How Much Does a Water Softener Repair Cost? [2026 Data]
Water softener repair costs can add up, but they’re almost always worthwhile. Use this guide to see what your project is going to cost before you get started.
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•
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.
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.
Kyle Schurman
•
Jul 8, 2026Jul 8, 2026
Who Repairs Water Softeners? Here’s Who to Call
Who repairs water softeners? You should be able to hire water softener repair and installation companies or plumbers to fix issues with these appliances.
Paige Bennett
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
What’s the Average Life Span of a Water Softener?
Water softeners last up to 25 years, but maintenance, usage, and other factors can affect the life span. Learn more about how long water softeners last.