Does water softener installation require a license?

<div><p>The license requirements for water softener installation depend on your location. Some municipalities require that the installer hold a plumbing license, some require a permit and an inspection, but no license for the installer, and some require a permit and a license for the installer. Regardless of the local laws in your area, it’s always a good idea to hire a licensed plumber or installer. These pros will install your system properly and have the experience to size the system appropriately. Use Angi’s <a href="https://www.angi.com/angi-license-check.htm">state licensing tool</a> to check your installer’s license status.</p></div>

How big of a water softener do I need?

<div><p>Your water softener size is based on your total household water consumption. In most cases, you can assume the average household member will use around <b>75 gallons per day</b>. Multiply that by the number of people in your home, then multiply by 10 (for the typical grains per gallon). You’ll get a number in grains that should help roughly size your water softener. However, it’s best to hire a professional to install your system and use more exact numbers, like your exact average water consumption per day and starting water hardness.</p></div>

Top 10 Best Water softener pros in Saint Cloud, MN

Q: Can I install a water softener myself?

<div><p>It&rsquo;s possible to install a water softener yourself, but we don&rsquo;t recommend it. Water softeners require working with copper pipes and electrical wiring, neither are suitable tasks for most DIYers. Plus, working with water and electricity together is dangerous and could pose a risk to your safety. Water softeners also need to be calibrated so that they don&rsquo;t make your water too soft, as soft water poses just as many risks as hard water. Overall, it&rsquo;s well worth hiring a local water softener installer to place your water softener system.</p></div>

Q: What is the average cost to install a water softener?

<div><p>The <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-water-softener-installation-cost.htm">cost to install a water softener system</a> is <b>$1,500 </b>on average, ranging between <b>$200 and $6,000</b>. The labor for water softener work typically costs between <b>$150 and $1,000</b>, so you can add that to your equipment costs to get an accurate total. Your price will depend on many factors, including the following:</p><ul><li><p>System capacity </p></li><li><p>Home size</p></li><li><p>Water hardness levels</p></li><li><p>Type of water softener</p></li><li><p>Presence of electricity in the installation area</p></li><li><p>Local permit costs</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Water Treatment & Purification System Installation and Replacement

Verified Reviews for Water Softener Service pros in Saint Cloud, MN

*The Angi rating for Water Softener Service companies in Saint Cloud, 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 Saint Cloud, 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 10, 2025

Reviewed in May 2025
Nick was waiting for me when I came back from an errand. He was very good at explaining what he was going to do, then did it, then explained what he found. Very professional! Aquarius should tweak their scheduling plan to incorporate windows of when the tech will arrive. The current method of...
Aquarius Home Services
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Reviewed in January 2025
Aquarius has a great organization. Everyone I have met or spoken with has been helpful and courteous. Their technicians are first rate and take the time to listen while I explain any concerns. They also take the time to explain what is wrong, if anything, how the system works and what I should...
Aquarius Home Services
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Reviewed in January 2025
There isn’t a customer service rep I haven’t liked! Professional, informative, and personable each one of them. Would recommend this company to anyone!
Aquarius Home Services
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Reviewed in December 2024
Andrew and team did fantastic work. Knowledgeable, professional, and even ran to the store to get an additional part. Highly recommend
Affordable Plumbing Solutions
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Reviewed in December 2024
It went great, they were on time and came in and did the job(s) in a nice timely manner, very appreciative with the work they do. They are very nice and easy to talk to about anything that is going on. I would hire them back in a heart beat.
Clean Drain LLC
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Reviewed in August 2024
Excellent. Justin was knowledgeable. Ran through the system and explained everything to my satisfaction. Pleasant. Professional.
Aquarius Home Services
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Reviewed in January 2013
The plumber arrived on time, completed the job efficiently, and was did not leave a mess behind him. I was very satisfied with his work and our water softener is functioning quite well. I would call on them again for my plumbing needs.
Huber Plumbing Company
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Reviewed in September 2013
He knew that we needed a small softener as we have a condo and not much room. Culligan tried to sell us one twice as big and for $700 more. I asked him about my outdoor faucet. He could not replace it, but he did install a new shut off to make it easier for the person who would do the...
Huber Plumbing Company
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Reviewed in March 2015
Prompt with bid. Always pleasant and helpful. Helpful in ordering fixtures we selected. Accommodated our schedule. Returned as needed when aspects of remodel were not completed on schedule to finish all work. Very responsive to questions, special requests, and fixing problems. This company did...
Huber Plumbing Company
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Reviewed in March 2024
We had an issue with our water conditioning system for Aquarius. They attempted to remedy the problem and determined they needed to replace the system. With the system being over 5 years old, I was uncertain what it would cost me, however, the only thing better than the equipment they provide...
Aquarius Home Services
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Water softener pros in Saint Cloud

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

19 local quotes requested

We specialize in drain cleaning for clogged drains and sewer back ups. We offer video camera inspection, hydro jetting, line locating, and more! We strive to exceed expectations by delivering exceptional service, great quality work, and professionalism on every job. Read more below on all the services we offer and contact us with any questions or to schedule a free estimate today!

"It went great. He took the time to explain what he was found and how he was fixing it. The drain works great now. Thank you"

Jodee C on April 2025

"It went great. He took the time to explain what he was found and how he was fixing it. The drain works great now. Thank you"

Jodee C on April 2025

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

102 local quotes requested

A happy, healthy family thrives with pure, chemical-free water and safely functioning plumbing and climate control systems at home and at work. Finken is made up of two sister companies Finken Water Solutions & Finken Plumbing, Heating & Cooling working side by side to bring you whole-home and office climate comfort and clean water solutions. Finken Water Solutions is your premium source for water treatment and bottled water for your family and co-workers — we even deliver coffee and water softener salt to your door! For problem water as simple as hard water to as complex as arsenic and nitrate tainting, Finken has chemical-free filtration solutions to purify even the nastiest water. We even offer financing and rental options so everyone has access to the purest water possible, straight out of their tap, for better drinking, cleaner laundry and squeaky clean skin and hair. When it comes to bottled beverages, Finken has you covered from our five kinds of bottled water to our 100+ varieties of brewed beverages. Finken Plumbing, Heating and Cooling is ready to tackle your home or commercial construction or remodeling projects and repairs. We work with the best builders in the business to create safe comfortable homes and working environments. From new construction to remodeling, cozy homes to comfortable apartments and office complexes, Finken is the go-to choice for plumbing, heating and cooling contracting. Got a serious plumbing or HVAC predicament? Finken is on call for you 24-hours a day. When your furnace, air conditioner or toilet is clinkin’ better think Finken!

"Finkens is amazing! They are easy to get a hold of, appointments are easy to schedule. Great softeners and maintenance! We've used Finkens for years and highly recommend their company!"

Nancy H on May 2020

"Finkens is amazing! They are easy to get a hold of, appointments are easy to schedule. Great softeners and maintenance! We've used Finkens for years and highly recommend their company!"

Nancy H on May 2020

American Eagle Plumbing Inc

American Eagle Plumbing Inc

Customers say: Super punctual

58 local quotes requested

16 years of experience

Since 2009, American Eagle Plumbing. has been servicing Round Rock, TX, and its surrounding areas in all of its plumbing needs. We are committed to high-quality work, long-term relationships and clear communication. Our team is thoroughly background checked and our business maintains a sterling reputation with the Better Business Bureau. Contact our team today!

"Very professional."

Julie C on February 2022

"Very professional."

Julie C on February 2022

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 91% of Angi customers

19 local quotes requested

Twin Cities #1 Plumbers!! Family owned & operated since 1973. Our father and son plumbing company has everything you need. We produce quality work and always do the job right the first time. We are also honest with all of our customers and offer reasonable prices to meet your needs. Whether you are a homeowner or a small business owner, our licensed, bonded, and insured plumbing company is here to serve you. Additional phone number - (866) 557-8639. Additional DBA - Gary E. Lindman Plumbing Co.

"Gary and Caleb were very polite. They complete a time-consuming job with minimum workspace in a timely manner. The two were very professional in their work. They cleaned the work area upon completion. I was pleased with the work and the price. I would hire Lindman Plumbing again if necessary."

Gaither R on May 2024

Randy's Electric

8557 Wyoming Ave N Ste 6

8557 Wyoming Ave N Ste 6

Customers say: Super punctual

585 local quotes requested

23 years of experience

You deserve a safe and reliable home. Get the job done right the first time with outstanding customer service from the Twin Cities top rated electrician. Outlets, fans, lighting, smoke detectors, switches, and service panels. Your full service electrician.

"Fantastic. I have already used them again."

Heath A on May 2025

"Fantastic. I have already used them again."

Heath A on May 2025

Mike's Custom Mechanical

Mike's Custom Mechanical

Customers say: Terrific value

95 local quotes requested

22 years of experience

Specializing in all phases of residential heating, plumbing, and cooling services and repairs. We serve the Twin Cities Metro area residentially and we also do commercial business under the name Priority Air Mechanical. We guarantee your satisfaction and we won’t leave until the job is done right. We pride ourselves on the quality work we provide, while delivering great customer service! Check out our services offered and call or click to schedule a free estimate today!

"Charged $1,000 for less than an hour of work with no material. I will NOT hire again."

Tim K on October 2024

"Charged $1,000 for less than an hour of work with no material. I will NOT hire again."

Tim K on October 2024

Aquarius Home Services

Aquarius Home Services

Customers say: Super punctual

Recommended by 91% of Angi customers

450 local quotes requested

Aquarius Home Services is the top home service provider in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Offering expert service in HVAC, Water Softeners, Plumbing and Electrical . Our work is backed by a 100% performance guarantee.

"Mike was friendly and helpful."

Dave S on July 2025

"Mike was friendly and helpful."

Dave S on July 2025

Drew's Plumbing Services

No reviews

Drew's Plumbing Services

No reviews

Drew's Plumbing Services provides customers with the best value by a combination of honest/competitive pricing, plumbers who take pride in the work they perform, and customer satisfaction. Call us today so we can help with your plumbing needs!

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

We specialize in all phases of plumbing services-- repairs, installs, maintenance, water heaters, water softeners, leaking pipes, and much more! We guarantee your satisfaction and we won’t leave until the job is done right. We pride ourselves on the quality work we provide, while delivering great customer service! Check out all of the services we offer below and call -- or-- click to schedule a free estimate today!

"Abousolutly amazing from start to finish, very professional....I recently bought an older house with many plumbing issues. My technician Ben from BMZ was very knowledgable and did great work. I highly recommend these guys."

Nick G on April 2021

Limitless Construction LLC

No reviews

Limitless Construction LLC

No reviews

8 years of experience

Residential and Commercial Building and Remodeling

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FAQs for water softener service projects in Saint Cloud, MN

The license requirements for water softener installation depend on your location. Some municipalities require that the installer hold a plumbing license, some require a permit and an inspection, but no license for the installer, and some require a permit and a license for the installer. Regardless of the local laws in your area, it’s always a good idea to hire a licensed plumber or installer. These pros will install your system properly and have the experience to size the system appropriately. Use Angi’s state licensing tool to check your installer’s license status.

Water softeners are worth the money if you live in an area with hard water. Hard water is safe to drink, but it poses serious threats to your plumbing system. The minerals in hard water will gradually build up on the inside walls of your pipes, reducing water flow to your fixtures. The minerals can also gradually corrode your plumbing system, reduce its lifespan, and increase the risk of leaks. Hard water also makes soap and detergent less effective. Water softener systems can solve all these issues, making them a great investment.

It’s possible to install a water softener yourself, but we don’t recommend it. Water softeners require working with copper pipes and electrical wiring, neither are suitable tasks for most DIYers. Plus, working with water and electricity together is dangerous and could pose a risk to your safety. Water softeners also need to be calibrated so that they don’t make your water too soft, as soft water poses just as many risks as hard water. Overall, it’s well worth hiring a local water softener installer to place your water softener system.

The cost to install a water softener system is $1,500 on average, ranging between $200 and $6,000. The labor for water softener work typically costs between $150 and $1,000, so you can add that to your equipment costs to get an accurate total. Your price will depend on many factors, including the following:

System capacity
Home size
Water hardness levels
Type of water softener
Presence of electricity in the installation area
Local permit costs

Your water softener size is based on your total household water consumption. In most cases, you can assume the average household member will use around 75 gallons per day. Multiply that by the number of people in your home, then multiply by 10 (for the typical grains per gallon). You’ll get a number in grains that should help roughly size your water softener. However, it’s best to hire a professional to install your system and use more exact numbers, like your exact average water consumption per day and starting water hardness.