On average, water softener installation cost can range anywhere from $600 to $3,000. The major factors are the quality and size of your water softener, and whether installation costs are included in the purchase of a new unit.
If you’re looking for immediate expert advice about water softener installation cost, contact the experts at WaterSmart.
What are the factors involved in water softener installation cost?
How Much Does Water Softener Installation Cost?
As with many major purchases, choosing the cheapest route isn't necessarily the right call. You need a quality water softener that’s installed properly so it gets the job done day in and day out for years to come.
Let’s take a look at how to choose the right water softener for your home, and how much it will cost to install.
There are a few ways to approach this question. If you’re looking for a new water softener, you could:
Purchase your new water softener at a big box store and
attempt to install your new water softener yourself
pay a plumber to install it
Or find a company that offers basic installation with the purchase of a water softener.
Let’s quickly look at each option in turn.
DIY Installation
If you’re looking to save money, purchasing the water softener and installing it yourself is certainly an option.
Maybe you enjoy doing things around your home and you have the time to tackle these home improvement projects. If this is the case, installing your own water softener can be fun and satisfying.
But, make sure that you have the knowledge, skills, and tools to do the job right. If you make a mistake, you may have to pay more than the original installation would have cost in order to get the job done right.
Do it yourselfers might find water softener installation to be a rewarding and cost-effective task, but there are risks.
Plumber Installation
On average, most plumbers in Canada will charge an hourly rate ranging from $58 to $260 per hour. You can expect to pay an even higher rate for a licensed professional plumber, who will cost anywhere from $104 to $170 per hour.
A general rule for plumbing projects is that the more difficult the job is and the longer it will take to complete, the more it will cost. While apprentices or freelance handypeople are likely able to complete simple jobs, complex projects require a master plumber.
Your plumber might offer a flat rate, which will typically run somewhere between $130 to $520 for simple service calls.
Water softener installation cost will therefore vary depending on the type of water softener you choose and how easily it connects to your water supply. The less labour-intensive the installation, the less a plumber can charge.
Water softener installation cost will be higher if you hire a plumber.
Specialized Water Softener Installation
Professional water softeners installers offer the right skills, training, and experience. They also provide you with specialized services.
They assist you in choosing the right water softener for your particular situation and needs. To figure that out, they test the hardness of your water and calculate the size and type of softener you will need by looking at how much water your family uses each day.
Installing a water softener isn’t a simple task. You don't just plug it in and you’re good to go. There’s a number of factors that go into it, including:
Having power outlets nearby to plug your unit in
Making sure that the drain line is long enough to reach the drain
Making sure that the location is level, dry and has at least 10 feet of piping between your softener and water heater
Programming the softening cycle
Over time, your softener will require maintenance and repairs, and a professional water softener dealer will offer ongoing support.
Water Softener Installation Cost: Could it be free?
The professionals at WaterSmart are well versed in water softeners and the specific hard water challenges of the Kitchener-Waterloo Region. We quickly and easily install water softeners on a regular basis. Here’s how it's done:
Step 1: We deliver your new water softener to your home.
Step 2: We Install the new water softener and hook it up to any necessary plumbing OR we will replace an existing residential water softener in the same location within your home.
Step 3: We set up and program the softener unit so that it can handle the amount of water that your household uses, and the specific hard water level of your neighbourhood.
Step 4: We remove and haul away the old water softener free of charge - unless it’s a rental unit.
Step 5: We test your new water softener to ensure that it’s working properly.
Step 6: We show you how the new unit works and how much salt to add on a regular basis
Step 7: We thoroughly clean up our job site.
All of this is free with the purchase of a high-quality water softener.
We are well equipped to install your water softener effectively the first time!
Worried about water softener installation cost? Trust WaterSmart!
If you need water softener installation in the Kitchener-Waterloo region, you can trust WaterSmart.
We'd be happy to help at a reasonable rate.
Our expert, experienced plumbers will install your new water softener efficiently and at a price that you can afford.
If you purchase a water softener from us, your installation is free!
Contact WaterSmart today for a free quote.