If you don’t have a water softener, the task of installing one isn’t as hard as it might seem. Installing a water softener can save you money in the long run (to help pay off those holiday gift bills) and provide you and your holiday guests with soft, clean water.

DIY Checklist

• Examine the water softener buyers guide
• Determine what kind of water softener you will need and where to find it
• Assess the tools you need to install the system
• Purchase flex connectors to reduce installation time
• Choose the appropriate salt pellets for your water softener. High-quality salts, like evaporated salt, which is the purest form of salt, will result in fewer maintenance problems over time
• Go through a DIY installation checklist to make sure you don’t forget anything

Benefits

• Save 90 dollars per year on appliances
• Save 450 dollars per year on everyday products (shampoo, lotion, cleaning products)
• Save 60 dollars per year on having clean pipes
• Save 200 dollars per year on clothing and towels
• Save up to 29 percent on water heating energy costs in just one year

Whether you’re at the beginning of your water softener search or simply in maintenance mode, there are easy tips for every stage of the DIY process. After examining all the different components, you’ll be able to strike the perfect balance and find the best water softening solution for your home.

The post Quick DIY Install Tips To Help Your Holidays Be Bright appeared first on HomeWater 101.

Choose the best option for you

You’ve done the research and now you’re ready to purchase and install your water softener. Whether you’re using a dealer, a plumber or your own DIY skills, there are advantages and disadvantages to each installation method. Below is a breakdown of what you can expect from each installation option, so you can choose the best approach for you.

Doing it yourself

Installing the water softener yourself allows you to work on the project at your own pace and without spending extra money on a plumber. If you understand and are comfortable with the principles of plumbing, the project will take no more than half a day. And if you’re simply replacing an old water softener, this can be completed in about an hour.

You’ll want to make sure you have all the necessary supplies and tools before you begin, as you may need to cut some pipes to align your water softener and water supply lines. And to help installation go smoothly, creating a detailed checklist before you begin will ensure you don’t miss any key steps.

Working with a retailer

If you purchased your water softener through a retailer, you may have the option of using their installation service for an added charge. It may take several days to schedule the installation, as the retailer uses an installer in their network who’s equipped to install your particular system. And since the retailer sets the appointment for you, they’ll be able to negotiate rates, helping you get the best installation price.

Using a local plumber

Purchasing a water softener from your nearby home improvement store means you can either install it yourself, have the retailer manage the installation, or call a local plumber. If your plumbing skills are shaky, professional installation by your local plumber is still affordable and will give you peace of mind that it’s been done correctly. As for availability, you may not get an appointment right away, so plan in advance to ensure your water softener is installed as soon as possible after purchase. If you haven’t already purchased a water softener but are starting to research plumbers, they may try to lead you toward a particular product they carry—even though it may not be the right option for your home or your budget. When the plumber arrives, make sure you have your water softener and its intended location ready for the plumber to make sure the installation goes quickly.

Using a dealer or water treatment specialist

When working with a water softener dealer, they’ll help you select a custom solution for your home and install the appliance as well. In fact, many dealers offer the opportunity to rent a system on a monthly basis, which is another option to consider for your household needs. If you aren’t sure which features you need or the best capacity for your home, working with a dealer is the most user-friendly option; however, it’s also the priciest.

Depending on your experience, comfort level and budget, there’s an installation option for everyone, so you can find the right balance and best solution for your home. For a comprehensive look at all your installation options, you can use this breakdown, which includes a detailed review of cost, time and difficulty.

The post Installing your water softener appeared first on HomeWater 101.

When it comes to water softeners, the selection and installation process can be a bit overwhelming. But with a few easy tips, savvy DIYers can solve their hard water problems easily and affordably. Here are a few key tips to keep in mind:

It all starts with research

• Learn your hard water number and assess your household’s water use to help determine the best solution for your home.
• Find out which tools you’ll need to successfully prepare for and install your water softener as well as any additional tubing or fittings.
• Purchase flex connectors to help the installation. They eliminate issues of mating pipes to the height of the softener inlet/outlet, reduce stress on pipes, and take less time than traditional soldering. Flex connectors are found at any home improvement store.
• Choose the appropriate salt pellets for your water softener. High-quality salts, like evaporated salt, which is the purest form of salt, will result in fewer maintenance problems over time. Additionally, for homes that are concerned with clear water iron in their water supply, salt pellets are available that include a rust remover component.

Preparing for the installation

• Select the right location for the water softener. The best spots are level and dry, have at least 10 feet of piping between the softener and the water heater and are near the main water line, a drain and an electrical outlet.
• If installing outside, ensure your softener will be protected from the elements (rain, freezing temperatures, direct sunlight)
• Create and follow a detailed checklist to ensure you don’t miss key steps during installation.

Installation checklist

• Turn off the water supply at the main.
• Drain the water lines by turning on a faucet at the highest and lowest points in the house.
• Make sure that the incoming water connects to the inlet on the valve and that the outlet on the valve connects to the water supply going into the house. (Note: Many homes have a cold water supply line that branches off the main to supply outdoor hose connections. This water should not be softened.)
• Optionally, install a remote bypass that lets you shut off the water going to the softener.
• Make the proper connections by making hard connections to the water supply lines or by using flexible connectors and connect any drain lines.
• Fill the brine tank half-full with salt.
• Slowly turn the water back on at the main and ensure the bypass valve is shut.

Start-up and maintenance

• Enter your home’s preferred regeneration settings (based on the number of people in your home and the average water use).
• Complete an initial manual regeneration to get the process started.
• Monitor salt levels and conduct routine maintenance.
• Upgraded to a new model? Call your local garbage company for guaranteed pickup of the old softener.

Whether you’re at the beginning of your water softener search or simply in maintenance mode, these are easy tips for every stage of the DIY process. However, if you would like to make sure that you have everything installed properly, contact one of our dealers for a free in-home assessment.

The post Top tips for the DIYer appeared first on HomeWater 101.