A water softener uses a process called ion exchange to remove hard minerals like calcium and magnesium from your water. But how long can you expect this appliance to last?
Most water softeners last between 8 and 15 years. However, the lifespan of your water softener will depend on factors like the quality of your water, how much water you use, and how well you maintain the system.
Let’s take a look at how long a water softener typically lasts, what can shorten its lifespan, signs that your system is failing, and how to keep your water softener working well for as long as possible.
How long do water softeners typically last?
With the right maintenance, you can typically expect a water softener to last for 10 to 15 years. Some sources say you’re more likely to get 8 to 12 years out of one.
The life of your water softener depends on a few factors:
- Water quality. Water with high levels of chlorine or iron can shorten the life of your water softener.
- Water usage. Larger households that use more water may find their water softener wears out sooner.
- Maintenance. A well-maintained water softener is likely to last longer.
What affects how long a water softener lasts?
A few things will affect the lifespan of your water softener:
- Water Hardness: How many minerals are in your water? If you live in an area with extremely hard water, your softener will have to work harder and regenerate more often. Water hardness differs from region to region.
- Water Quality: Sediment, iron, chlorine, and other impurities can damage the resin bed inside your softener. A pre-filter can remove these impurities.
- Salt Quality and Usage: Always use high-quality salt made for water softeners. Also, keep the salt at the right level inside the brine tank.
- Maintenance: Clean and inspect your softener regularly. Clean the brine tank once a year.
Signs your water softener needs attention
Even the best-maintained water softener will eventually need repairs or replacement. Here are some telltale signs your softener might be failing.
Signs of malfunction
- Scale buildup on fixtures and appliances
- Spots and stains on dishes and laundry
- Reduced water pressure throughout the house
- Needing to use more soap than usual, or noticing that soap won’t lather
- Changes in the way your water tastes or smells
More telltale signs
- Water feels slimy even after you’ve used soap
- Clothes feel rough or dull after washing
- The system seems to be regenerating too frequently
- The unit is running constantly
How do you know if you have hard water?
If you’re noticing any of the following, you may have hard water flowing through your pipes:
- Soap scum buildup in showers and sinks
- Dry skin and hair
- Difficulty cleaning
Maintaining Your Water Softener to Extend Its Life
Like any appliance, a water softener will last longer if you take good care of it. Fortunately, it’s not hard to do.
Regular Maintenance Tasks
- Keep an eye on salt regeneration. Make sure the unit is set to regenerate properly.
- Clean the brine tank once a year. This will remove any sediment that’s accumulated over time.
- Break up any salt bridges. Salt bridges are hardened salt formations that can develop in the brine tank.
- Clean the resin bed regularly. Use a water softener cleaner to keep the resin bed free from buildup.
Preventative Measures
- Install a pre-filter. A pre-filter will remove sediment and other impurities before they reach the softener.
- Set the correct hardness level. Make sure the unit is set to the correct hardness level for your water.
- Use the right kind of salt. Choose a high-quality salt designed for water softeners.
- Protect the system from extreme temperatures. Just like your pipes, your water softener can be damaged by freezing temperatures.
Salt-Free Water Conditioners: An Alternative
Salt-free water conditioners offer another approach to managing hard water. These systems don’t actually remove minerals from your water. Instead, they change the minerals’ structure to keep them from sticking to your pipes and appliances.
One advantage of salt-free conditioners is that they tend to last longer than traditional water softeners, with some units lasting for 20 years or more.
While they require less maintenance, it’s important to remember that salt-free systems don’t truly “soften” water in the same way as traditional softeners.
Wrapping Up
Most water softeners last between 8 and 15 years, but the lifespan of your unit depends on several factors, including the quality of your water, how heavily you use it, and how well you maintain it.
Following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and addressing small problems as soon as you notice them can extend the life of your water softener and save you money over time.
If you’re still unsure how to best care for your water softener, a water treatment specialist can assess your water quality and provide personalized advice.