The average water softener installation cost is $850 – $1,800 depending on the system type and configuration. The cost of a water softener system ranges from $600 – $2,500 per unit.
As an experienced licensed home improvement contractor, I know first hand what it should cost for various levels — from Basic, Better, and of course the best.
This water softener system cost calculator will provide you with up to date pricing for your area. Simply enter the number of units and get a ballpark estimated water softener installation cost.
| Water Softener Costs | Zip Code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic | Better | Best | |
| Unit Price | $550.00 – $745.00 | $850.00 – $1200.00 | $1500.00 – $2500.00 |
| Water Softener Installation Cost | $850.00 – $1200.00 | $1500.00 – $1800.00 | $2225.00 – $3250.00 |
| Total | $1400.00 – $1945.00 | $2350.00 – $3000.00 | $3725.00 – $5750.00 |
| Total Average Cost per Unit | $1672.50 | $2675.00 | $4737.50 |
How Much Does a Water Softener System Cost?
The average cost of a water softener system is $1,200 per unit for a salt-based Ion-exchange system with installation running $850 – $3,200. Whereas a salt-free water softener system will run you $800 on average and with installation $650 – $1,800.
| National Average | $2,675 |
| Low | $1,400 |
| Mid-range | $2,675 |
| High-end | $3725.00 – $5750.00 |
Types Of Water Softener Systems
Water softener systems come in two main types: salt-based and salt-free. Salt-based systems are more common and tend to be more effective, but they are not always allowed in certain areas because of their impact on the environment. If you’re not sure what type of system you need, check with your city or town to see what is allowed.
| Water Softener Type | Unit Cost |
|---|---|
| Ion-Exchange water softener | $1,200 |
| No-salt water softener | $800 |
| Dual-tank | $2,300 |
| Electronic/ Magnetic Descaler | $350 |
| Portable water softener | $600 |
Ion-Exchange Water Softener System Cost
The average cost of an Ion-exchange water softener system costs $1,200 per unit with installation running between $850 – $3,200 depending on configuration and job complexity.
Ion-exchange systems use a process of exchanging hard minerals using either sodium or potassium-type salts. This is the most common type of water softener system, and the size required depends on the water hardness in your area and the average water usage for your family.
No-Salt Water Softener
The average cost of a salt-free water softener system is $800 with installation running between $650 – $1,800 depending on the configuration and job complexity.
A salt-free water softener system is a chemical-free option that uses a process of “template-assisted crystallization” (TAC) to change the structure of the hard minerals so they can no longer adhere to surfaces. These salt-free water conditioner systems do not remove the hard minerals, but they prevent them from causing any damage.
Electronic and Magnetic Descaler
The average cost of an electronic or magnetic descaler system is $150 – $500 with installation running between $350 – $1,200 depending on the configuration and job complexity.
Electronic and magnetic descalers work by sending a current through the hard water to change the structure of the minerals so they can no longer adhere to surfaces. These systems are not as effective as salt-based or salt-free water softeners, but they are a chemical-free option.
Dual-Tank Water Softener
The average cost of a dual-tank water softener system is $2,300 with installation running between $1,800 – $3,200 depending on the configuration and job complexity.
A dual-tank water softener system has two tanks that work together to provide a continuous supply of soft water. These systems are more expensive than other types of water softeners, but they are the most effective option.
Portable Water Softener
The average cost of a portable water softener is $600.
A portable water softener is a small, self-contained unit that can be used in any location. These systems are less effective than other types of water softeners, but they are the most convenient option – perfect for RV’s.
Water Softener System Price Comparison
When considering a top-quality water softener for your home, the following brands are some of the best in the business. Each of these brands offers a wide range of water softener systems to choose from, so you can find the perfect system for your home and budget.
Water Softener Cost By Brand
| Brand | Warranty |
*Unit Cost |
|---|---|---|
| SpringWell | Lifetime | $950 – $1,200 |
| Aquasana | 6 year | $875 – $1,400 |
| SoftPro | Lifetime | $850 – $1,500 |
| Pentair | 5 year | $750 – $1,300 |
| Fleck | 5 year | $700 – $1,200 |
| Whirlpool | 6 year | $650 – $950 |
| Culligan | 5 years | $650 – $975 |
| GE | 5 years | $550 – $900 |
| Kinetico | 10 years | $1,200 – $2,300 |
Water Softener System Cost Factors & Considerations
Several factors can affect the cost of a water softener system, including:
- Type of system you choose
- Size of the unit
- Complexity of the installation
- Permit fees
- The water hardness in your area
- Your family’s water usage
- Modifying your plumbing or electrical systems
- If your water has high Iron levels, you may need a secondary pre-filter system.
Water softener systems typically range in price from $600 to $2,300. The type of system you choose will be the biggest factor in determining the cost. Installation can also be a significant cost, especially if modifications to your plumbing or electrical systems are necessary.
When considering the cost of a water softener system, it’s important to factor in the long-term costs as well. For example, salt-based systems will require regular replenishment of salt, which can add up over time. Additionally, some systems may require more maintenance than others. Choose a system that is low-maintenance and designed for easy use to avoid costly repairs down the road.
The size of the unit is another important factor to consider. The larger the unit, the more it will cost. But, if you choose a unit that is
Water Softener Costs By Water Hardness
Another factor that can affect the cost of a water softener system is the hardness of your water. The harder your water is, the more expensive the system will be.
Water hardness is measured in grains per gallon (GPG). The following table shows the average cost of a water softener system based on water hardness.
| Water Hardness (GPG) | Average Cost of Water Softener System |
|---|---|
| 1-5 | $600 – $1,000 |
| 6-10 | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| 11-20 | $2,000 – $3,000 |
| 21+ | $3,000+ |
Water Softeners – Pricing and Installation Cost Checklist
- Expect the Water Softeners prices to fluctuate between various companies – each and every company have different operation expenses and over-head.
- Try to get prices in late Fall, early winter – you should expect aggressive pricing discounts by waiting for a contractor’s down season.
- Try to budget and additional 7-15% more on top of what our calculator gives out for water softener costs.
- Visit every supply house that sell your particular brand of water softeners and try to negotiate a better price with each supplier – I save on average 20%.
- Installing a water softener isn’t an easy task to perform for a DIY’er and can leave you with a sore back. You might find it more cost effective to hire a plumbing contractor to perform the work for you. Plumbing companies will most always get better prices on water softeners — saving your back and additional costs, so shop around, ask your neighbors if they can recommend someone.
View Other Water Heater and Filtration Costs: From Gas, Electric, Tankless & More
- Electric
- Gas
- Water Filtration
Whats the Average Cost of Electric Hot Water Heater?
How much does an Electric Tankless Water Heater Cost?
Average cost of Energy Efficient Water Heater
How much does a Gas Hot Water Heater Cost?
Whats the average cost of Gas Tankless Water Heater With Installation?
Heat Pump Water Heater installation cost
High Efficiency Water Heater Cost
Cost of Tankless Hot Water System Installed
Average cost of Water Softener
Water Ultrafiltration Prices
External References:
- Energy.gov — Energy Cost Calculator for Electric and Gas Water Heaters. Added Jan. 17, 2015
- Hud Path — Volume 8 Rehab guide – Estimating HVAC/ Plumbing
- ClimateCounts
122 people found this helpful. Was this guide helpful to you?
