However, before installing a water softener in your home, it’s important to understand how water softeners work and the various types available. We’ll break down the key differences between each softener to help you decide which type is appropriate for your needs. Below, learn about six different types of water softeners and how to choose the right system for your home. These systems are the most commonly used type of water softeners, and they come in a variety of sizes for a range of different homes. This includes small, portable salt-based softeners that are ideal for camping and RV trips. However, it should be noted that there is a drawback to these systems beyond the addition of salt to the water. The resin needs to be regularly recharged because the softener runs out of positively charged sodium ions to exchange for heavy minerals. Choose either a metered system that automatically regenerates the water softener after a specific volume of water has passed through, or opt for a timed system that regenerates the sodium ions according to a set schedule instead of a metered volume of water. There are plenty of budget options, while high-end water softeners also exist in salt-based models. Typical prices range between $400 to $1,000, plus any optional installation costs. This type of softener should last between 10 and 15 years depending on maintenance by the owner and how often it’s used. The minerals stick to the sites and begin to form into crystals during a neutralization process that prevents the minerals from binding to anything as they pass through the water. When the minerals are neutralized, they detach from the sites and travel harmlessly through the water without causing mineral buildup or scaling. However, it should be noted that these systems may not be as effective when dealing with very high levels of hard water or households with a higher than average water usage. They also have a higher initial cost than salt-based water softeners at about $500 to $3,000 and are expected to last about 10 years. However, dual-tank water softeners take up a lot of space and come with a hefty price tag (up to $6,000 or more), so they are really only necessary for large homes with high water consumption. Like standard salt-based water softeners, options with dual tanks should last between 10 and 15 years. A full-size water softener doesn’t always fit into a smaller home, as salt-based and salt-free systems can take up a lot of space. A magnetic water softener helps avoid this problem with a very compact size that simply straps onto the water pipe. You don’t even need to cut into the water line to install these devices, though they do require a source of electricity. Most products are very affordable and can be plugged into an available power outlet. Some magnetic water softeners or descalers need to be hardwired into the home’s electrical system. However, they do make a good budget option at $200 to $400 on average. Because of their simple installation process, plug-in magnetic softeners are a great option for renters that don’t require permanent changes to the home (and can be brought to another home easily if you move in the future). This type of water softener also works to filter out contaminants from the water, instead of just treating the heavy minerals. Reverse osmosis systems can come at a high price of about $1,800, but some budget options are also available for around $100. These water softeners are relatively limited due to the point-of-use design. Like salt-based and TAC systems, reverse osmosis options should last between 10 and 15 years when maintained properly. This is an affordable option to enjoy the benefits of softened water in the shower without needing to install a whole-home water softening system, typically costing between $20 and $100 (though more luxury options are available). These softeners are easy to install and should last for several years, though they do have a cartridge filter that will need to be replaced about once every three months. Some products even come with extra features like vitamin fortifying filters and scented filters, though these additions aren’t appealing to everyone. If you don’t need to treat your home’s entire water system, consider adding water softeners to your shower heads and under your sinks. In many cases, this is the best solution for budget-friendly softened water (though the filters need to be changed at regular intervals). However, these options do not remove minerals before the water passes through your plumbing system, so older houses can benefit from whole-home systems that help prevent corrosion in pipes. If you’re still unsure which type of water softener is best for your needs, it’s helpful to consult a plumber for advice and recommendations based on your specific home.
