What is a good hardness level for drinking water?

• <div><p>A good hardness level for drinking water can vary based on personal preferences, but an ideal level is 3.5 to 7 GPG. This means your water isn’t soft or hard. However, some people prefer the “fresh” taste from the minerals in hard water, while others like the smoother, “slippery” texture of soft water.</p></div>

Can I soften hard water?

• <div><p>Yes. To get soft water, you can install a water softening system, which will replace the calcium and magnesium ions in the water with sodium or potassium ions. <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-water-softener-installation-cost.htm">Water softeners cost</a> anywhere from $200 to $6,000, depending on the size and complexity of the system. You can either install a water softener for the whole house or just at your shower heads. If you’re sensitive to sodium or potassium, you can install a salt-free water conditioner.</p></div>

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Q: What shortens the life of a water softener?

• <div><p>There are several things that can shorten the life of a water softener. Homes with very hard water may have to replace the unit sooner because the water softener works harder to filter out the hard minerals. High water usage and infrequent maintenance can also put more strain on a water softener.</p></div>

Q: How does a water softener impact household appliances and fixtures?

• <div><p>Softened water prevents scale deposits, reducing appliance wear, leading to energy savings and longer-lasting household fixtures.</p></div>

Q: How do I install a water softener system?

• <div><p>You can install a water softener system by turning off the water supply, draining the water, and then connecting your device to the waterline. Next, you&rsquo;ll fill your tank with the recommended amount of salt or brine (whichever your unit calls for; be sure to read the instructions). Turn the water supply on and check for leaks. You can opt to let your water run for a few minutes, then test it using strips. </p><p>The process of <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-inspect-your-water-softener.htm">inspecting your water softener system</a> is similar.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Water Softener Service pros in Madison, MN

*The Angi rating for Water Softener Service companies in Madison, 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 Madison, 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 26, 2025

Reviewed in August 2025
Sadly been a nightmare. Saying on the way 10 minutes away and never showed and wouldn't answer the phone or texts. More than a dozen times. Work still isn't done. Told the sub contractors he hired ( promised he would be here the entire time. Seen him 2 times at the most in 3...
Xtreme Xteriors, LLC
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Reviewed in November 2023
Time will tell for us!
LeafGuard
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Reviewed in November 2023
The packing material they used was high-quality and eco-friendly, which gave me peace of mind knowing that my move had a minimal impact on the environment. Every box was meticulously labeled, and the clear, concise handwriting made it effortless to identify each item's contents.
BQ Transport, LLC
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Reviewed in August 2021
It was excellent. They were prompt in coming out to give me an estimate. They kept a good communication. The work itself was done very quickly. They cleaned up after themselves. They kept the yard in good shape. They finished it in only 6 hours.
Noble Roofing and Exteriors Inc
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Reviewed in March 2020
Work was done very professionally & timely by a person who loves his job & follows through with integrity and pride in a job well done.
Force and Partners, LLC
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Reviewed in August 2018
He was timely and kept me informed during the project.
Carpets N' More, Inc.
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Reviewed in June 2018
Quickly remove tree from my greenhouse so I could start repairs.
Nick's Tree Service
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Reviewed in August 2017
Excellent cleanup after work had completed. Also very easy to talk with and communicate what I wanted.
Weaver's Tree Service, LLC
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Reviewed in July 2013
I have never met anybody that was so professional and knowledgable. He took the time to explain everything to us. He said he wouldn't charge anything for the temporary fix on two building and to look at the roof that would last through winter and that he would fix it right. He showed up when...
A-1 HANDYMAN SVC
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Reviewed in July 2013
They called us soon after the referral....but never showed up!!!!!!!
Francis Animal & Pest Control
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American Home Shield – Home Warranty

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Well Pump - Repair or Service

Serving Madison, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 1971

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"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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Water Softeners questions, answered by experts

A good hardness level for drinking water can vary based on personal preferences, but an ideal level is 3.5 to 7 GPG. This means your water isn’t soft or hard. However, some people prefer the “fresh” taste from the minerals in hard water, while others like the smoother, “slippery” texture of soft water.

There are several things that can shorten the life of a water softener. Homes with very hard water may have to replace the unit sooner because the water softener works harder to filter out the hard minerals. High water usage and infrequent maintenance can also put more strain on a water softener.

Softened water prevents scale deposits, reducing appliance wear, leading to energy savings and longer-lasting household fixtures.

Yes. To get soft water, you can install a water softening system, which will replace the calcium and magnesium ions in the water with sodium or potassium ions. Water softeners cost anywhere from $200 to $6,000, depending on the size and complexity of the system. You can either install a water softener for the whole house or just at your shower heads. If you’re sensitive to sodium or potassium, you can install a salt-free water conditioner.

You can install a water softener system by turning off the water supply, draining the water, and then connecting your device to the waterline. Next, you’ll fill your tank with the recommended amount of salt or brine (whichever your unit calls for; be sure to read the instructions). Turn the water supply on and check for leaks. You can opt to let your water run for a few minutes, then test it using strips.

The process of inspecting your water softener system is similar.

The Madison, MN homeowners’ guide to water softener services

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

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