Is It Time for a Water Softener Replacement? Look for These Signs
Water softeners play an essential role in your plumbing system—especially here in San Antonio, where our water is some of the hardest in the country. A water softener protects your plumbing from damage due to mineral buildup, while a failing water softener can put your plumbing at risk. But how can you tell when it’s time for a water softener replacement?
At The Plumbing Bros, our mission is to provide long-term plumbing solutions to our customers. Part of ensuring your plumbing lasts as long as possible is knowing when to replace critical appliances and components. So today, we’re sharing some signs that it’s time for a water softener replacement to protect your plumbing in San Antonio.
How Often Should I Replace My Water Softener?
Generally, a new water softener should last around 10–15 years. However, there are certain factors that can make your softener last for more or less time. A few of these include:
- How hard your water is
- How much water you use
- How well you maintain your water softener
While our water in San Antonio is fairly hard, that doesn’t mean your water softener will automatically need replacement within a decade. In fact, with good care and maintenance, your water softener could last longer than 15 years.
When to Replace a Water Softener: 5 Signs
The best way to determine when it’s time to replace your water softener is to book an appointment with a trained plumber. That said, here are a handful of warning signs you can watch for.
Mineral Buildup
As your water softener begins to fail, it will begin to be less effective. This means less of the minerals that make water “hard” will be removed from your water. As a result, minerals may build up on faucets, showerheads, and around drains.
Dry or Itchy Skin
If you notice drier skin or itchiness after showering, hard water could be the culprit. Similarly, your hair may feel less clean or soap may not lather as well, indicating mineral buildup in your water.
Funny Taste
If it seems like your water tastes different than normal, this could indicate an issue with your water softener. Even if your water softener isn’t the cause, sudden changes in the taste of your water could be an indication of other plumbing issues—so it’s best to reach out to a plumber.
Frequent Repairs
As your water softener ages, it will need more frequent repairs and maintenance. At a certain point, it will be more cost-effective to remove your water softener and install a new one rather than to continue repairing your current unit.
Plumbing Malfunctions
In extreme cases, such as if your water softener has been failing for a long time, you may experience serious plumbing issues. Hard water can lead to clogged pipes or drains and more frequent plumbing problems in general.
The Value of Ongoing Maintenance
The best way to maximize the lifespan of your water softener—and to avoid plumbing issues from an overdue replacement—is to enroll in an ongoing maintenance program. Our water softener maintenance package includes salt delivery, regular inspections, and proactive repairs to keep your softener working as it should.
The Plumbing Bros: Professional Water Softener Replacement in San Antonio
At The Plumbing Bros, we’ve seen firsthand the havoc a failing water softener can wreak on plumbing systems. If you’ve noticed issues with water hardness in your home, it’s best to schedule a water softener replacement right away to protect your home from the hard water we have here in San Antonio.
We provide a full selection of water softener solutions, including replacement and installation, repairs, and comprehensive maintenance services to ensure your new unit lasts as long as possible. Reach out online to get started, or call 830-490-2767 today.
