Water softeners are beneficial for your appliances, plumbing fixtures, clothing, and skin. If you have hard water and you're tired of dealing with the residue, you might be thinking about installing a water softener to fix the problem. There are many different types and styles of water softeners, and there are some things that you need to think about when you're planning your water softener installation.
Access to drainage
One of the first things that you need to consider when you decide where to install your water softener is your access to drainage. You shouldn't drain it outside because the softened water doesn't work well for watering plants or grass. Make sure you have access to an internal drain that runs to your standard plumbing infrastructure for your water softener to drain into.
Easy water supply connections
Your water softener needs a direct connection to the incoming water supply. Choose your installation location based on the location of your plumbing lines, or talk with your plumbing contractor about running new lines to your softener's installation location. Ideally, you can have your water softener connected to the primary incoming line so that your entire home's water supply is treated as it enters the house.
Level installation surface
The installation location needs to be level because it is essential for proper water flow through the system. Make sure you pick a location that's flat or talk with your installation technician about the best way to level the space before the softener is installed.
Power source access
You'll need an outlet to supply power for your water softener. Your plumbing contractor will tell you if it needs a dedicated circuit or if there are any concerns about excessive power draw. Make sure that the outlet you use is a GFCI fixture, or have an electrician install one for your softener so that you have a safe, consistent power supply for the system to function.
Easy maintenance
If the water softener that you're installing relies on salt, you'll need to be able to easily access the system to change the salt, flush the softener, and break up a salt bridge if one develops. Talk with your softener installation technician about the most accessible location that fits the other requirements.
These are the things that you need to think about when you install a water softener. Talk with your installation technician for more guidance and to find the best location for your system.
What was the first thing you did when you got up this morning?
If you answered "go to the bathroom," "get a drink of water," or "brush my teeth," then it's important to realize the role that a plumber has already played in your day. The plumber who installed your plumbing made that morning routine possible! Some other plumbers may have worked on the system over the years, also contributing to your experience. Plumbers have a bigger impact on our daily lives than we often realize. In fact, that's one reason we write this blog — to make our readers more aware of their plumbing.