Get matched with top water softener pros in Taylor, WI

A water softener removes minerals from your drinking water and can make your house water softer. These softeners are designed to extend the lifetime of your plumbing system while also making water safer and more palatable for drinking. Hard water, which is water with a heavy amount of suspended particles, can also cause hair damage, skin irritation, and buildup in your pipes.

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.

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.

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.