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>

Get matched with top water softener pros in San Rafael, NM

Q: Do you need a license or permit to install a water softener?

• <div><p>Whether you need a license or permit for water softener installation depends on your location. Some municipalities require the installer to hold a plumbing license, while others may only require a permit and an inspection. In some cases, both a permit and a licensed installer are necessary, and some areas have no requirements at all. Often, only certified plumbers and electricians are allowed to pull the necessary permits. To find out the specific regulations in your area, you can contact your local building department. Alternatively, a local water softener installer or plumber will be familiar with the requirements and can typically pull the permits for you. Regardless of local laws, it is always recommended to hire a licensed professional to ensure the system is sized and installed correctly. You can use tools like Angi&rsquo;s state licensing tool to verify an installer's license status.</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>

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: How do I choose the right water softener for my home?

• <div><p>Choosing involves understanding water hardness levels, household size, desired features, and consulting professionals experienced in suitable system types.</p></div>

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Need a pro for your water softener service project in San Rafael, NM?

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Verified Reviews for Water Softener Service pros in San Rafael, NM

*The Angi rating for Water Softener Service companies in San Rafael, NM 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 San Rafael, NM 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 November 21, 2025

Reviewed in November 2025
Cody is helping us determine if we have a water leak in the foundation piping. Were getting moisture under our laminate flooring that is causing it to buckle. Cody was honest in recommending a technical diagnosis from another plumbing company before beginning work. He wanted to make sure a leak...
2CB Technical Services, LLC
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Reviewed in May 2023
Warden Bros. Installed a couple of Mimi split systems in my home. They were very professional and efficient with a minimal wait time.
JRE Heating & Cooling
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Reviewed in November 2022
They were very kind and helpful with my Deck. They kept me laughing anytime I checked on them. The project was finished in a very timely manner and it looks wonderful! Thank you! Y'all will be the first to be called if I need anything else.
Enhanced Handyman Service, LLC
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Reviewed in March 2022
I hired Mark for several different projects, i.e. trash hauling, landscape cleaning, and downed tree removal. Very responsible, on time and thorough. I recommend him highly. He'll do a good job for you.
Mark's Handyman Hauling
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Reviewed in August 2021
Very professional and responsive and courtesy customer service. The two employees were friendly and attentive. They did an amazing job on the kitchen. You may need to remind them of a few things in the bathrooms. Wonderful on removing dust and mopping. Will use them again!
Germinator USA
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Reviewed in April 2021
Excelltel team of family owned business. They are great and amazing, took extra care and did not cut corners. They went up and beyond to make sure everything was perfect. I am more than amazed and I am already having a second project my for my home for M&R to do the job. I would recommend for...
M & R Marble and Granite
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Reviewed in September 2020
The installer we very professional and courteous. Cleaned up after completing each window and door. Very helpful in showing us how to operate the windows and doors.
Dreamstyle Remodeling of New Mexico
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Reviewed in July 2017
It went well We love the water treatment system We have very hard water and this is awesome. We have 2 Water Heaters and had it installed on both. The service was great . He has came back to check it and he calls often
R & L Ent of GMX Magnetic Hardwater Treatment
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Reviewed in February 2016
Had no idea my pipes were frozen, had water to the other fixtures, just not cold water to the shower. He showed me where the problem was and why I had a problem. Very professional, left the area very clean. He was even able to fix a problem I knew I had the same day. I would highly recommend Lee...
Lee's Plumbing and Drain Service
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Reviewed in January 2014
I had multiple issues with Deer Vally Plumbing. Water Heater problems which lasted for months because of improper venting. They also left a sewer pipe uncapped which leaked under the house and caused a terrible situation. Hands-down the worst customer experience I've had.
Deer Valley Plumbing Contractors Inc
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Find Water softener pros in San Rafael

Pacific Coast Purification

4.6(

)

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

Serving San Rafael, NM and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"I am pleased with the water softener. The owner explained the system and answered my questions. A miscommunication in scheduling installation was quickly changed to accommodate my schedule. Installation was speedy and they explained the best way to position the softener. A few questions that I had after installation were answered quickly. Thanks!"

Response time9 hrs

36 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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

Serving San Rafael, NM and surrounding areas

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"We hired Rae to do plumbing on our new home. She's is great to work with. She is very knowledgeable and gets the job done in a timely manner. I highly recommend her for all your plumbing needs."

Response time11 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Mr Rooter Plumbing Of Four Corners

3.7(

)

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

Serving San Rafael, NM and surrounding areas

In business since 1970

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"I have used these plumbers at least 10 times in the past 2 years and will use them again soon.
"

Recommended by73%of homeowners

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American Home Shield – Home Warranty

3.5(

5,688

)

Well Pump - Repair or Service

Serving San Rafael, NM 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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Texas Water Filtration, Inc.

5.0(

)

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

Serving San Rafael, NM and surrounding areas

In business since 2014

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Texas Water Filtration is a family owned and operated business that has been serving Texas and New Mexico for years. We specialize in water treatment and air quality treatment. From sales to service we have you covered. A few of the common problems we find in the area are hardness (white chalky build up), low Ph (blue green staining), iron (orange/brown stains), sulfur (rotten egg odor), nitrates, manganese (black slime). We strive to treat customers the way we would want to be treated. We are fair and honest with our advice and are respectful of your time. We are here to help so give us a call.

Response time30 mins

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Precision Service Plumbing & Heating

2.0(

)

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

Serving San Rafael, NM and surrounding areas

In business since 1970

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Precision Service Plumbing & Heating is experienced in all aspects of plumbing. We pride ourselves on our customer relations and repeat business. We look forward to working with you.

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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AAA Backflow Testing & Repair

New to Angi

Water Treatment & Purification System - Install or Replace

Serving San Rafael, NM and surrounding areas

In business since 2006

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality plans/\ndrawings. We strongly believe in giving our absolute best in all of our projects no matter how big or small. We are experts in our trade and will always keep you educated on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business!

Response time6 hrs

Request Quote

J and K Engineering

New to Angi

Water Treatment & Purification System - Install or Replace

Serving San Rafael, NM and surrounding areas

In business since 2018

Free estimates

With several years experience, we work hard to bring each customer the best possible service and quality available. We look forward to working with you on your next project. We welcome your questions, and thank you for your interest.

Request Quote

Water Softeners questions, answered by experts

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.

Whether you need a license or permit for water softener installation depends on your location. Some municipalities require the installer to hold a plumbing license, while others may only require a permit and an inspection. In some cases, both a permit and a licensed installer are necessary, and some areas have no requirements at all. Often, only certified plumbers and electricians are allowed to pull the necessary permits. To find out the specific regulations in your area, you can contact your local building department. Alternatively, a local water softener installer or plumber will be familiar with the requirements and can typically pull the permits for you. Regardless of local laws, it is always recommended to hire a licensed professional to ensure the system is sized and installed correctly. You can use tools like Angi’s state licensing tool to verify an installer's license status.

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.

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.

Choosing involves understanding water hardness levels, household size, desired features, and consulting professionals experienced in suitable system types.

The San Rafael, NM 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

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Mar 18, 2026Mar 18, 2026
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•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
What Is a Water Softener and Is It Right for Your Home?
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•
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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
•
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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.
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•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 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.