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Signs Your Water Softener Needs Maintenance or Replacement


CWS All-in-One Water Softener with Whole Home Filtration and the DROP WIFI Leak Detection Valve

A water softener is an essential in the battle against hard water, keeping your home’s water supply clean and efficient. Similar to other appliances, your system needs to receive regular maintenance and eventual replacement to operate at its best. Fortunately, if you’re experiencing issues with your water softener there are several easy-to-detect signs that indicate when maintenance or replacement is needed. 



Signs Your Water Softener Needs Maintenance

Hard Water Spots:

  • If you begin noticing hard to remove spots or streaks on your household appliances and dishes your softener is most likely not softening your water efficiently anymore. This could be a result of a mechanical issue or resin depletion.


Reduced Water Pressure:

  • A noticeable decline in water pressure can indicate clogged resin beads or mineral buildup in the system, which is limiting your home’s water flow.


Salt Bridging:

  • Salt bridging is a common problem that occurs when a hardened layer of salt forms in your system’s brine tank. This will prevent proper regeneration and can be resolved with a simple cleaning.


Unusual Noises:

  • Strange sounds during the regeneration process may signal mechanical issues with the motor, valve, or other internal components.


Changes in Salt Usage:

  • If your softener is suddenly using significantly more or less salt than usual, it could indicate an issue with the brine system or regeneration cycles. 


Error Codes:

  • For softeners with digital valve displays, error codes are an obvious indicator that something is wrong. Consult your owner’s manual or contact us for troubleshooting. We have a few system manuals located on our website.


Signs Your Water Softener Needs Replacement

System Age:

  • High quality softeners typically last 10–15 years. If yours is approaching or has surpassed this lifespan, it might be time for an upgrade to avoid inefficiency and costly repairs.


Persistent Hard Water Issues:

  • If your water remains hard despite regular maintenance and regeneration, the resin beads or internal components may no longer be effective.


Frequent Repairs:

  • If you find yourself constantly needed service repairs, the cost will eventually outnumber the cost of replacing your softener with a new system. 


Outdated Technology:

  • Newer water softeners offer advanced features like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi connectivity, and dual-tank designs for better efficiency. Upgrading to modern technology can improve performance and ease of use. The DROP WIFI Valve is the most advanced valve option available. It can connect to your phone for system monitoring and has automatic leak detection.


Water Quality Remains Poor:

  • If your water still tastes odd, leaves residue even after regeneration, or shows other signs of hard water, the system may have reached the end of its life. If you're unsure whether it's time to replace your water softener, give us a call! We're here to answer all your questions and help you find the best solution for your home.


How to Extend the Life of Your Water Softener

Regular water softener maintenance is key to keeping your system in top shape. Here are a few of our recommendations:

  • Clean the Brine Tank:

    • Periodically empty and clean the brine tank to remove any salt buildup.

  • Inspect the Resin Beads:

    • Resin beads can lose their effectiveness over time. Replacing them every 10–15 years can help maintain efficiency.

  • Check for Salt Bridges:

    • Break up any hardened salt layers in the brine tank to ensure proper regeneration.

  • Schedule Professional Inspections:

    • A technician can perform routine checkups and address potential issues before they escalate.


Try to address these water softener replacement signs as early as possible to extend the life of your water softener and keep your home’s water quality consistent. If your system has passed the point of repair or is no longer satisfying your water treatment needs, we suggest upgrading to a more advanced water softener for the most up-to-date performance and efficiency. 


Need Help?

If you’re experiencing any of these issues or want to learn more about upgrading your water softener, contact us today for expert answers and a free estimate. Let us work with you to find a system that treats your water while satisfying all your water treatment needs.

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