Photo from Unsplash

Originally Posted On: https://www.beehiveplumbing.com/how-to-tell-that-its-time-to-get-a-water-softener-replacement/

Although water softeners are incredibly durable, eventually a northern Utah home will need a water softener replacement

Everyone in northern Utah understands just how important water softeners are for our everyday household needs, because we just so happen to live in a region that has some of the hardest water in the entire country.

All of us at Beehive Plumbing have seen hard water minerals like calcium and magnesium completely wreck residential plumbing systems far too many times, and what a lot of northern Utah residents don’t realize is that they need to eventually replace their water softeners once the unit has reached the end of its functional lifetime.

Below we’ll be detailing everything you need to know about water softener replacements!

How Long Do Water Softeners Usually Last?

Water softeners are typically very durable, but the longevity of these plumbing appliances will largely depend upon factors like household usage patterns, the appliance’s overall quality, and the owner’s commitment to maintenance and upkeep.

In general, water softeners will last around 10-15 years, but sometimes much longer. Here in northern Utah, water softeners sometimes last less than this due to exposure to harsh conditions and inadequate maintenance.

How Can You Tell When It’s Time For A Water Softener Replacement?

You may be in need of a water softener replacement if you’re noticing any of the following:

Decreased Effectiveness

If you’re starting to notice warning signs of hard water while owning a water softener, then this is an indication that your appliance isn’t working efficiently anymore.

Some of these warning signs include limescale buildup on appliances, faucets, and plumbing fixtures.

Water Quality Changes

If your household’s water starts to look, smell or taste strange, then it’s a warning sign of a water softener malfunction. Soft water should be free of abnormal smells and tastes of minerals, so any changes from the norms you’ve been accustomed to mean that you’re going to need a professional inspection.

Low Water Pressure

Although low water pressure is a symptom of many different plumbing issues, it’s also a warning sign associated with water softener problems. Hard minerals can often accumulate within a home’s pipes when a water softener isn’t working properly, and this then leads to low water pressure in multiple fixtures throughout a plumbing system.

Consistent Water Softener Repairs

If your water softener unit is breaking down on a frequent basis, it could mean that it’s simply time for a replacement. Although we all want to make the most of these plumbing investments, there comes a time when it’s actually more economical to cut your losses and invest in a new appliance.

This will ultimately save you money and a lot of hassles in the long run!

Scaling In Bathrooms & Kitchens

If you’re noticing any type of white layer in your kitchen or bathroom, then it’s a serious red flag that something is wrong with your water softener. Inefficient water softeners will not fully dissolve minerals like magnesium and calcium, which leads to a visible scaling on household surfaces like sinks.

When this type of scaling is neglected, it can eventually impact your drain pipes and lead to significant clogs. That’s why it’s generally better to replace your malfunctioning water softener prior to your plumbing woes getting much worse!

What Will Happen If You Forget To Change Out Your Water Softener Filters?

Some water softener models require people to switch out filters on a routine basis, and the following issues may arise if you neglect this type of upkeep:

• Inefficient water softening
• Increased energy costs and consumption
• Plumbing system damages
• Reduced plumbing appliance longevity
• Adverse effects to your skin and hair

Contact The Beehive Plumbing Team To Learn More About Our Water Softener Services!

Beehive Plumbing has provided thousands of water softeners to homes and businesses throughout northern Utah, so we’ve been there for countless properties in need of a replacement unit. There’s a lot that people need to keep in mind when it comes to water softener upkeep, and these plumbing appliances truly are a game-changer due to the overall hardness of our municipal water supplies.

Reach out to us online or call us at 801-849-3841 to learn more about our water softener services and let us know what’s currently going on with your unit!