In many cases, a plumber can fix a water softener. However, some plumbers may not work on water softeners. So before you hire one, ask them if they offer this service. 

Also, consider completing these steps before you hire a professional:

• Confirm if they’re licensed, bonded and insured in your state.

• Read their customer testimonials for positive reviews and red flags.

• Find out if they offer a warranty or guarantee for their workmanship and materials.

• Ask them to provide an estimated timeline so you know how long the repair will take.

• Get cost estimates from at least two or three pros so you can compare prices and avoid overpaying for services.

For more tips, visit our Smart Hiring guide.

Investing in routine upkeep can prevent costly repairs and extend the lifespan of your system. Get an idea of local pricing by contacting plumbers or water softener services and asking them to provide estimates for the following services: 

• Annual maintenance servicing (typically, this includes inspection, cleaning and part replacements)

• Filter replacements (you may need this every three to six months) 

• Regular salt or potassium refills (you may need this every four to six weeks)

• Unexpected repairs (from minor fixes to major system overhauls)

Water softeners need regular maintenance to keep them running optimally, extend their lifespan and prevent repairs. If your system is working well, most service providers suggest having it serviced every 1 to 2 years. But keep in mind you'll need to check and replenish the salt levels every four to six weeks and look for salt bridges in your brine tank between services.

Although this may differ depending on the pro, servicing a water softener typically includes:

• System inspection

• Salt level inspection and replenishment

• Brine tank cleaning

• Salt bridge detection and removal

• Resin bed cleaning

• Regeneration cycle check

• Venturi valve cleaning

• Filter replacement

Here are some signs that your system might be failing:

• Soap scum and reduced lather: Hard water minerals can reduce soap effectiveness, leading to soap scum buildup. If your water softener isn’t working, you’ll notice a decline in soap lather.

• Unusual noises: Grinding or hissing noises could indicate mineral buildup, worn-out components like the valve or a clogged resin bed that needs cleaning.

• Increased salt consumption: Excessive salt use can suggest salt bridges or high water hardness. It may also point to regeneration issues within the brine tank.

• Low water pressure: Low pressure is often caused by clogs in the resin bed or sediment buildup. A malfunctioning injector may also contribute to this problem.

• Rust-colored stains: Rusty stains on faucets and drains could mean your softener isn’t effectively removing iron. Older models may struggle with iron-heavy water.

Here are the most common reasons a water softener might stop working:

• A salt bridge has formed

• The resin bed is clogged

• Salt levels are low

• A control valve is malfunctioning

• Your inlet or outlet valves are blocked or leaking

• There are power supply or electrical issues

• The resin is worn out

• The system has incorrect settings

Sometimes, fixing a water softener is as simple as adding salt to your softener or breaking down a salt bridge with a broom handle. But for more complex problems, it's a good idea to call in the experts. 

Various components in a water softener may need repair, replacement or cleaning. A professional will typically take 1 to 3 hours to complete normal repairs. More complex repairs, such as resin bed replacement or major mechanical problems, may take longer. 

The technician or plumber will need access to your water softener. An outdoor softener won't cause much inconvenience, but if your system is indoors, you'll need to give the technician the room they need to conduct the repairs.

For some repairs, like cleaning the brine tank, the technician must empty the tank. This can be slightly messy, but they usually make arrangements to limit spills and clean up when done. 

During this time, your water mains will usually need to be shut off, though this might not be necessary for simple repairs.

Repairing a water softener usually takes 1 to 3 hours. The time it takes depends on the problem and the skill level of the person doing the repair. Professionals can get the job done quicker, so expect repairs to take longer if you do them yourself. 

Here are some considerations to keep in mind: 

• Quick repairs: Simple tasks like adding salt, replacing a valve or performing a service can usually be completed in under an hour. 

• Longer repairs: Bigger jobs, like draining and cleaning the brine tank, can take up to three hours. 

• Extensive repairs: The most serious problems that involve the resin bed or mechanical failure may take even longer to repair but can usually be completed in a day if all the parts are available.

Choosing to repair or replace your water softener can be difficult. A professional should be able to guide you through the decision and help you make the best choice. Here are some key points to consider:

• How old is the water softener? Water softeners may last up to 20 years before needing to be replaced. If your softener is nearing the end of its lifespan, it might be worth considering a replacement.

• Is it still under warranty? If your water softener is still under warranty, the manufacturer will likely decide whether to repair or replace it for you.

• How expensive are the repairs? Some repairs, like filter replacements and cleaning, are typically affordable. If you're facing more expensive repairs like a resin tank or motor replacement, it might be worth considering installing a new system instead.