If you’re planning to buy a water softener anytime soon, we’re here to help.
Here are the main things you need to know:
1. Why you need to buy a water softener
3. How to install a water softener
If you’re looking for immediate advice about water softeners, contact the experts at WaterSmart.
1. Why you need to buy a water softener
Hard water causes a number of issues, especially in Waterloo Region where water hardness is higher than average.
Kitchener and Waterloo have exceptionally hard water.
Some reasons to buy a water softener include:
You’re seeing damage to your dishwasher, washing machine, and hot water heater due to mineral build-up
There’s calcium build-up in your shower
Your sink and toilet bowl are stained
Prevent damage to your plumbing pipes
You have difficulties getting your dishes and laundry clean
You’re seeing damage to your clothing, causing it to wear out faster
Let’s use the shower head as an example.
Hard water contains large amounts of calcium and magnesium. These are minerals that cause limescale residue on bathroom fixtures like your shower head.
This buildup can significantly reduce the flow of water into your shower, and you’ll often notice a film that covers your shower, tub, and even your curtain. Limescale is a hard, chalky deposit that will grow on the inside of your hot water pipes if not treated.
Because of the unique and challenging water hardness issues found in our area, it’s a good idea to buy a water softener from a company that is familiar with plumbing in Kitchener.
2. Water softener cost
On average, a water softener can cost anywhere from $600 to $3,000 or more depending on the quality and size of the softener.
You want a water softener that is going to be able to soften your water over a long period of time. Additionally, the more water you use, the larger the capacity of water softener you will need.
To help you determine what size of water softener you would need for your home, check out this previous blog post, "What Size Water Softener?”
Formula for what size softener you need.
As with other major purchases, the cheapest water softener isn't always your best bet.
If up-front costs are prohibitive when it comes to investing in the best water softener for your home, our financing option allows you to purchase your water softener at 12 equal payments with zero interest.
3. How to install a water softener
There are a few ways to approach this after you buy a 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 free installation with the purchase of a water softener.
If you choose to buy a water softener and install it yourself, make sure 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 cost in order to get the job done right.
If you choose to work with a plumber, it will cost more upfront but it will ensure the job is done right the first time.
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 simpler the installation, the less a plumber will charge.
On average, most plumbers in Canada will charge an hourly rate ranging from $58 to $260 per hour.
But, if you purchase your water softener from a company like WaterSmart, your basic installation is free and is done by our factory-trained technicians.
buy a water softener AT 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, and we even have financing options to get you started.
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.
“Visited the show room and was well educated on water softeners and how they work. The price for the unit chosen plus installation was more then fair compared to other providers and quotes. Installation occurred within 3 days, and was professionally done. I will recommend Water Smart to any one looking for a new water softener system.”
