Can you have both a water softener and a water filter?

• <div><p>Yes, you can have both a water softener and a water filter. In fact, some manufacturers sell dual water softening and filtration systems that treat hard water and provide clean drinking water. If you’re unsure about what you need or want to discuss your options, reach out to a <a href="https://www.angi.com/nearme/install-water-softener/">local water softener installation company</a>.</p></div>

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 do I know if I have hard water in my hair?

• <div><p>If your ‘do isn’t doing what you want it to do despite using good hair care products, hard water might be to blame. Since hard water can’t rinse soap off as well as soft water can, your hair might grow limp because of the shampoo and conditioner residue that’s left behind. If you color your hair, you might see it fade more quickly or even turn a different shade as the dye reacts with the minerals in the water. You might also experience an itchy scalp, thanks to the dryness that comes from bathing in the hard water.</p></div>

Best water softener pros near Eagle River, WI

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

• <div><p>Whether you need a permit or license for a water softener installation depends on your location, as requirements vary significantly. Some municipalities require the installer to hold a plumbing license, some mandate a permit and an inspection, and others require both. In some areas, no special permit or license is needed at all.</p><p>To determine the rules in your area, you can contact your local building department or consult a local water softener installer or plumber. Often, only certified professionals are authorized to pull the necessary permits, and they will typically handle the entire permitting process 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 Angi&rsquo;s state licensing tool to check an installer&rsquo;s license status.</p></div>

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: How do I know if I have hard water in my hair?

• <div><p>If your &lsquo;do isn&rsquo;t doing what you want it to do despite using good hair care products, hard water might be to blame. Since hard water can&rsquo;t rinse soap off as well as soft water can, your hair might grow limp because of the shampoo and conditioner residue that&rsquo;s left behind. If you color your hair, you might see it fade more quickly or even turn a different shade as the dye reacts with the minerals in the water. You might also experience an itchy scalp, thanks to the dryness that comes from bathing in the hard water.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Water Softener Service pros in Eagle River, WI

*The Angi rating for Water Softener Service companies in Eagle River, WI 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 Eagle River, WI 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 March 01, 2026

Reviewed in March 2026
We had mad city baths come in to replace our shower in northern Wisconsin at our cabin. They were able to do it in one day and Larry, who came to do. It was very courteous, knowledgeable and cleaned up all of his mess before he left. Highly recommend them, especially if you need a job to be done...
Mad City Windows & Baths
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Reviewed in April 2023
Very professional,clean cut,prompt, really cleaned up afterwards.
Northwoods Tree Service, LLC
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Reviewed in January 2022
Great experience starting with ability to text pictures to get an idea for cost of the job to replace hot water heater. Showed up on time, was detail oriented, cleaned up and was curious. And best of all, I think their prices are great. Definitely recommend using them.
BPS Plumbing Solutions
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Reviewed in September 2021
Dam was great and I highly recommend White Glove. We were able to schedule my project quickly. Dan came in removed, cleaned and reinstalled my blind all very quickly. He was clear about expectations. He did a great job. Very happy
White Glove Blind Cleaning
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Reviewed in September 2020
Our home is in a remote location. Plumber came analyzed the issue with water quality and pressure. He made a trip into town and got necessary supplies and worked until we had correct water pressure and quality. Very professional and explained how to maintain the system.
A Wanna Services, Inc.
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Reviewed in December 2014
Very responsive. Came out the day after we called to give an estimate, and we received the bid the next day. Price was very competitive. Work was done in a timely and professional manner. We were impressed with Superior, and have since used them to have a new water heater installed - and...
Superior Plumbing & Heating
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Reviewed in November 2013
Brian completely removed all the inventory, removed the carpet, did extensive drywall repair that was caused by water damage from a leaking roof, he helped remove all the old florescent lightning fixtures (over 100 in all). Once the demolition was complete he put a full faux 3 coat finish on...
Justice Painting
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Reviewed in April 2013
My water heater went out and I need to get it fix. The service tech came out and told me that my pilot light needed to be re lite. He had to clean out the bottom of the heater before he could get the light re lite. The tech made it look so east to where if it happened again, I'm pretty sure...
Genz-Ryan Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning
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Reviewed in March 2013
After purchasing an older chalet style steep pitch roof home we replaced the deteriorating front entry (3 steps up to the door) with a full length covered porch connecting to an uncovered side deck, and added a pitched roof corresponding to the existing chalet roof-line. At the transition from...
Mikes Seamless Gutters and Maintainence
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Reviewed in July 2012
Our roofing contractor recommended that we have some masonry work done to prevent water from getting inside our building. He recommended AAA1 Masonry & Tuckpointing, and I am glad that he did. Rob Reese, the owner, came out to our building and thoroughly inspected our situation before providng...
AAA-1 Masonry & Tuckpointing Inc
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Top-Rated Water softener pros in Eagle River - Updated Nov 2026

Frasier's Plumbing & Heating, Inc.

4.1(

)

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

Serving Eagle River, WI and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1918

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Quick and professional response time. By the end of the afternoon, we had a new water heater installed. Shawn was great to work with."

Response time1 day

Response rate100%

76 neighbors recently requested a quote

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American Home Shield – Home Warranty

3.5(

5,689

)

Well Pump - Repair or Service

Serving Eagle River, WI 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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Water Softeners FAQs, answered by experts

Yes, you can have both a water softener and a water filter. In fact, some manufacturers sell dual water softening and filtration systems that treat hard water and provide clean drinking water. If you’re unsure about what you need or want to discuss your options, reach out to a local water softener installation company.

Whether you need a permit or license for a water softener installation depends on your location, as requirements vary significantly. Some municipalities require the installer to hold a plumbing license, some mandate a permit and an inspection, and others require both. In some areas, no special permit or license is needed at all.

To determine the rules in your area, you can contact your local building department or consult a local water softener installer or plumber. Often, only certified professionals are authorized to pull the necessary permits, and they will typically handle the entire permitting process 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 Angi’s state licensing tool to check an installer’s license status.

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 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.

If your ‘do isn’t doing what you want it to do despite using good hair care products, hard water might be to blame. Since hard water can’t rinse soap off as well as soft water can, your hair might grow limp because of the shampoo and conditioner residue that’s left behind. If you color your hair, you might see it fade more quickly or even turn a different shade as the dye reacts with the minerals in the water. You might also experience an itchy scalp, thanks to the dryness that comes from bathing in the hard water.

The Eagle River, WI 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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