Get matched with top water softener pros in Republic, MO

Q: 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>

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: Should I hire a professional or replace a water softener myself?

• <div><p>If your water softener repair is fairly straightforward, like a simple filter replacement, then you can probably do it yourself with little risk. However, anything beyond a simple fix should be addressed by someone with extensive plumbing expertise to avoid costly water softener problems, like leaks. </p><p>That said, even simple problems can be complicated to diagnose, particularly if your water softener is attached to a whole-house treatment system. So, unless you feel absolutely certain that the problem is an easy fix that you can take on yourself, it's probably best to hire a plumber to diagnose and fix the problem.</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: How many hours does it take to install a water softener?

• <div><p>While it depends on how complicated the unit and installation is, it takes two to four hours to install a water softener unit, on average. It might take longer if pipes need to be replaced. You should make sure the installation area is clear of any objects that might get in the way before you begin.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Water Softener Service pros in Republic, MO

*The Angi rating for Water Softener Service companies in Republic, MO 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 Republic, MO 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 May 28, 2024

Reviewed in May 2024
We used J&J for installation of a new hot water heater, new air conditioner and some electric work and it was so nice to have so many services in one place for a great price! Everything is up and running without any issues and they were friendly and easy to communicate to through the install...
J&J Heating And Cooling
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Reviewed in May 2024
Ed was very thorough with the inspection. Ed was also very good at explaining the process and answering all questions. Would definitely recommend to anyone with basement water issues.
Foundation Recovery Systems
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Reviewed in February 2024
Dyllan did a great job! He came to the house early. He actually woke me up! I was given a quote to replace the angle stop valves on two toilets and a sink. While Dyllan was working on the project, he found out that the main water shut off valve didn't work. He explained what needed to be done to...
Cardinal Plumbing
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Reviewed in January 2024
Josh the owner is very knowledgeable. I had a serious water issue flooding my basement. Josh came out and regraded my lawn and put bubblers in to redirect the water. Iâ m very satisfied with the work and the result.
J & L Construction & Excavation
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Reviewed in July 2023
Brandon contacted me very quickly after I started a search for a water softener company on Angie's List. He gave me two water softener options and quotes and explained the differences between the two. That made it very easy for me to decide on the quote I wanted to accept. Brandon is both...
Rose Plumbing LLC
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Reviewed in July 2023
Michael Kern came to our home upon our request to take a look at our carpets in the rv and water damage on the ceiling of our rv in the bedroom. He was a miracle worker! The carpets look amazing and the water stains are gone! Hs coming back soon to do our house carpets! He professional,...
Mr. Steam Carpet Cleaning LLC
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Reviewed in August 2022
Tyler was the best. Great equipment set up to prevent low water pressure, so the job always gets done. Great work ethic. He focused on details and got it right the first time. He works with you on price and provides future discounts for referrals. Winner! Winner!
Cantrell Powerwashing
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Reviewed in May 2022
Super friendly and knowledgeable. They helped me find the best solution for my needs when it would have been a lot easier to just sell me what I asked for. They saved me money and steered me away from an unnecessary replacement of my water softener. I highly recommend them and will happily use...
Aquasani, LLC
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Reviewed in May 2022
He was able to get me in quick and removed the water. He installed a sump pump to prevent future issues and added moisture barrier. Great job!
Guardian Foundation Repair
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Reviewed in February 2021
I ve been very impressed with this company, so far. The project is still underway. I m having my main water service line repaired coming from the water meter at the street to inside the house. The cost is $2400.
Roto-Rooter
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Find Water softener pros in Republic

Aquasani, LLC

4.6(

)

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

Serving Republic, MO and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2014

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Will need to complete later the water softener has not been installed yet it is scheduled to be put in on the 21st so far I would rate this company is very good thank you"

+40

Response time12 hrs

7 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by93%of homeowners

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The Plumbers Plumber LLC

5.0(

)

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

Serving Republic, MO and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"They did an excellent job for an affordable price. I was very happy with their service from start to finih."

Response time6 hrs

74 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Reed's Plumbing, Excavating, Septic, Heating & Air

4.6(

)

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

Serving Republic, MO and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1972

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Done fast and affordable price"

+11

66 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by75%of homeowners

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White Plumbing, Heating & Air

5.0(

)

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

Serving Republic, MO and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1989

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

"Colton Nettles was absolutely wonderful to work with. I will definitely ask for him if I need anything else done from this company."

Response time2 hrs

37 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by75%of homeowners

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Bryson Grabher Pump Service

5.0(

)

Well Pump - Repair or Service

Serving Republic, MO and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1975

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Reasonable prices, customer service oriented, professional, friendly, knowledgeable."

Response time1 day

Response rate87%

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Springfield

4.2(

)

Water Treatment & Purification System - Install or Replace

Serving Republic, MO and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1992

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Springfield, we respect you, we respect your time, and, most importantly, we respect the trust that you put in us to keep your home's Plumbing running smoothly. It’s why we back all of our work with a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee for two years, and it’s why we’re always on time—guaranteed. Whether you need yearly maintenance, replacement, or emergency service give us a call or book online 24/7. We service Springfield, Nixa, Ozark, Republic, Rogersville, Willard, Walnut Grove, Fair Grove, Ash Grove, Billings, Clever, Sparta, Highlandville, Strafford, Battlefield, Turners, and Brookline

1 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Air & Water Solutions Of The Ozarks

3.7(

)

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

Serving Republic, MO and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1993

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We are experts in our trade and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business! Call us today.

Response time9 hrs

Response rate98%

31 neighbors recently requested a quote

Well Pump - Repair or Service

Serving Republic, MO and surrounding areas

In business since 2025

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Jimmy was punctual, looked professional, was very polite. The new tap was installed in 30 min or less. He also repaired a malfunctioning wall switch that operates our garage door. The charge for both jobs was fair. I recommend him."

Response time50 mins

Recommended by93%of homeowners

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

Serving Republic, MO and surrounding areas

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Very professional and knowledgeable. Extremely pleased with their work and ability to answer all our questions. Loving our water!! Would highly recommend The Water Guys!"

Response time8 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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

Serving Republic, MO and surrounding areas

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"The job was done very well, it was done in a timely and professional manner. Would easily recommend to anyone looking for a plumber!"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Showing 1-10 of 32

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.

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.

If your water softener repair is fairly straightforward, like a simple filter replacement, then you can probably do it yourself with little risk. However, anything beyond a simple fix should be addressed by someone with extensive plumbing expertise to avoid costly water softener problems, like leaks.

That said, even simple problems can be complicated to diagnose, particularly if your water softener is attached to a whole-house treatment system. So, unless you feel absolutely certain that the problem is an easy fix that you can take on yourself, it's probably best to hire a plumber to diagnose and fix the problem.

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.

While it depends on how complicated the unit and installation is, it takes two to four hours to install a water softener unit, on average. It might take longer if pipes need to be replaced. You should make sure the installation area is clear of any objects that might get in the way before you begin.

The Republic, MO 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

Haley Nothstein
•
Mar 18, 2026Mar 18, 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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•
Apr 10, 2026Apr 10, 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
•
May 5, 2026May 5, 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.
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•
Apr 10, 2026Apr 10, 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
•
May 2, 2026May 2, 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.