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>

How much does it cost to install a water softener?

• <div><p>The average cost to install a water softener, including the system and labor, is approximately $1,500. However, the total price can range widely from $600 to $6,000. For some complete systems, the cost may be between $800 and $2,500. Labor for the installation typically costs between $150 and $1,000.</p><p>The final price is influenced by several factors, including:</p><ul><li><p>System type, capacity, and complexity</p></li><li><p>Home size and household water demands</p></li><li><p>Water hardness levels</p></li><li><p>Accessibility of the installation site and the extent of plumbing work required</p></li><li><p>Whether new electrical work is needed</p></li><li><p>The professional hired and any local permit costs</p></li></ul></div>

Best water softener pros near Good Thunder, MN

Q: Can hard water cause hair loss?

• <div><p>It&rsquo;s unlikely that hard water on its own could cause substantial hair loss or damage, though it&rsquo;s true that bathing in hard water can cause your scalp to feel itchy or flaky and might dull your hair&rsquo;s natural shine. Using high-quality shampoo and conditioner or buying a whole-home water softener can decrease these issues.</p></div>

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

• <div><p>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.</p></div>

Q: What are the side effects of drinking hard water?

• <div><p>Drinking hard water is not known to have any negative health impacts. Using hard water can lead to dry skin and hair, and the minerals in hard water can build up in pipes, faucets, and appliances. Hard water is more of a threat to your plumbing than it is to your health.</p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your water softener service project in Good Thunder, MN?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Water Softener Service pros in Good Thunder, MN

*The Angi rating for Water Softener Service companies in Good Thunder, 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 Good Thunder, 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 August 19, 2022

Reviewed in August 2022
They were willing to point me in the direction of what water heater I needed to get and they installed the one I bought which saved me money! They picked up the water heater from the store even. THEY CAME THE VERY SAME DAY I SPOKE TO THEM AND REPLACED IT FOR ME. I Would recommend to anyone!!!...
J & M Plumbing, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2021
Brady did an excellent job with this pour. The grade of slope was as asked, sheds water where desired and with no low spots. It looks great as well. Probably the most impressive thing was that he estimated when they could do the job which was about 3 weeks out and that was bang on. He also...
Brady's Concrete & Construction
Request a quote
Reviewed in May 2021
Reported a claim and was told a service tech would contact me within 24 hours. Never heard from one. I was told that I could hire my own, but that he would have to submit a diagnosis and price first, and then wait for approval before proceeding with repairs. All this time I'm without hot water.
Choice Home Warranty
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2021
Ben is a young, motivated and upcoming landscaper with many ideas, from sod/seeding, landscaping rock, flowers. Also has a great vision for water features and lighting to turn your yard or business into a picture perfect dream come true
Eagle Hardscape LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2019
BEWARE, CAUTION! STAY AWAY FROM ATLANTIS POOLS!!! Now that I’ve been informed the pool is no longer under warranty it’s time to leave a review... Some of the problems in no particular order include: - flooding of the pool equipment and backyard due to improper grading during pool excavation (i...
ATLANTIS POOLS
Request a quote
Reviewed in December 2016
Originally we had no reason to complain about Heyn's response. They came immediately to replace loose shingles on the ridge lines. Then when we called about the leak in the dormer a representative came out but originally couldn't find the problem. We kept calling and after several attempts and...
Heyn Brothers
Request a quote
Reviewed in June 2013
Very satisfied. They came the same day we called. They determined our old hot water heater was still under warranty. <br />
Jerry's Plumbing Service
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2012
iAt 3 a.m on Saturday morning, the cold water in pipe on my water heater blew. Thank goodness for the alarm I had in the sump. Anyway, I called at 8 a.m. on Saturday morning and he was here in an hour. I'd already shut off the water. We talked money and options, and I decided to buy a heater...
North Mankato Plumbing & Heating
Request a quote

Top-Rated Water softener pros in Good Thunder - Updated Nov 2026

Water Quality Options

5.0(

)

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

Serving Good Thunder, 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

Request Quote

American Home Shield – Home Warranty

3.5(

5,689

)

Well Pump - Repair or Service

Serving Good Thunder, 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

Request Quote

JSV Plumbing

New to Angi

Water Treatment & Purification System - Install or Replace

Serving Good Thunder, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

10 plus We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality, and customer service that we provide to meet the consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. Our reputation is based on service, safety, and quality, regardless of how large or small the job. \n

Response time3 days

Request Quote

Water Softeners FAQs, answered by experts

It’s unlikely that hard water on its own could cause substantial hair loss or damage, though it’s true that bathing in hard water can cause your scalp to feel itchy or flaky and might dull your hair’s natural shine. Using high-quality shampoo and conditioner or buying a whole-home water softener can decrease these issues.

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.

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.

The average cost to install a water softener, including the system and labor, is approximately $1,500. However, the total price can range widely from $600 to $6,000. For some complete systems, the cost may be between $800 and $2,500. Labor for the installation typically costs between $150 and $1,000.

The final price is influenced by several factors, including:

System type, capacity, and complexity
Home size and household water demands
Water hardness levels
Accessibility of the installation site and the extent of plumbing work required
Whether new electrical work is needed
The professional hired and any local permit costs

Drinking hard water is not known to have any negative health impacts. Using hard water can lead to dry skin and hair, and the minerals in hard water can build up in pipes, faucets, and appliances. Hard water is more of a threat to your plumbing than it is to your health.

The Good Thunder, 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

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.