Where Should You Install Your Water Softener?

Can I put my water softener outside?

This depends on the weather and climate of your area. Outdoor installation is a good option for warm, coastal areas where homes don't have basements'but even then, there are some factors to consider. Water softeners must be kept out of direct sunlight, protected from animals and water that could damage the electronics, and should not be installed somewhere temperatures fall outside of the range of 35-100°F. If you live in a state like Florida and want to install your new water softener outside, be sure to keep it in a covered location to protect it from the elements. Be sure to refer to your system's owner's manual for more specific information on installation requirements.

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An alternative option for warmer states is installing your water softener in your garage if it is connected to the house. If kept within the 35-100°F range, a garage offers a shaded location that's protected from the elements.

Identifying the essentials when choosing where to install a water softener

There are a few key things that will need to be near your water softener to ensure proper performance.

• Source of electricity: You will need to have a nearby 120V electrical outlet to provide power to the system.
• Access to drainage: Your water softener should be near a laundry tub, floor drain, sump or drain pipe to carry away regeneration drainage water. The main drain out of the water softener may be run up to 8 feet above the water softener (perhaps to an available drain in the floor above your softener) or can be run horizontally to a drain up to 30 feet away. Always make sure you follow local codes for water softener drain requirements. For outdoor installations, keep in mind that water softener discharge will kill the grass and is not allowed by code in many areas.
• Proximity to water treatment systems: Installing your softener between the water heater and other treatment systems you may have (such as a sediment or iron filter system) will keep your appliances centralized. By installing in an 'order of operation,' you can ensure your water will be high-quality as it runs through your home. To achieve this, in a majority of applications your sediment or specialty filtration system should treat the water first, then the water softener and finally, enter the water heater. This order of operation protects your appliances and maximizes efficiency.

If your house is pre-plumbed with a water softener loop, a plumbing feature that's becoming increasingly common in newer homes, you have a more obvious location for installation. This feature specifies the location for connecting the water softener and separates the water flowing within your home and outside your home (you only need to soften the water in the home, not the water going to the outside faucets). While it doesn't hurt to water your garden or perform household chores outside with softened water, it's typically a waste of salt and water, so it's best to keep your inside water usage separate.

Water softening is the process of removing minerals that make water hard, such as calcium and magnesium, through water treatment equipment known as a water softener. Installing a water softener can significantly improve water quality, prevent scale buildup in pipes and appliances, and extend the lifespan of your plumbing system.

However, proper installation is crucial for the efficient functioning of the water softener. This blog will discuss the essential factors to consider when determining the best location for installing a water softener, including access to power, water supply, drainage, and the mistakes to avoid during installation.

Factors to Consider When Deciding on Water Softener Installation Location

When deciding on the installation location of your water softener, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important factors is the location of your water supply. You should choose a location that is close to your main water supply and easily accessible.

Another factor to consider is the amount of space you have available for the installation. You will need to ensure that there is enough space to accommodate the water softener unit, the mineral tank, and the pressure tank.

Other factors to consider include the location of your electrical outlet, the type of water softener you have, and the water hardness level in your area. It is also important to consider the drainage system in your home, as the water softener will need to be connected to a drain for the backwash cycle.

Indoor Installation: Choosing the Right Spot for Your Water Softener

Indoor installation is the most common type of water softener installation. When choosing the right spot for your water softener, it is important to select a location that is easily accessible and where the water supply enters your home.

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You should also consider a location that is protected from direct sunlight and where the temperature remains relatively constant. A utility room or basement is an ideal location for indoor installation, as it offers ample space and easy access to water and electrical outlets.

When choosing a location, it is also important to consider the proximity to the drain system. The water softener unit will need to be connected to a drain for the backwash cycle, so the location should be close to a drain or have a drain hose long enough to reach the nearest drain.

Overall, the indoor installation of a water softener requires careful consideration of the factors mentioned above to ensure that the unit operates efficiently and effectively.

Outdoor Water Softener Installation: Pros and Cons

An outdoor water softener installation may be an attractive option for homeowners who lack adequate indoor space or prefer to keep noisy equipment outside. However, it also comes with its own set of pros and cons.

Some of the advantages include easier installation, more accessible maintenance, and potential cost savings on indoor plumbing modifications. On the other hand, outdoor installations may be exposed to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, and harsh weather conditions, potentially reducing the lifespan of the equipment.

Additionally, outdoor installations may not be suitable for areas with high crime rates, as they can be easy targets for theft or vandalism.

Common Water Softener Installation Mistakes to Avoid

Proper installation of a water softener is crucial to its performance and longevity. Some common mistakes to avoid include installing the equipment too close to a water heater or other heat source, failing to install a bypass valve, neglecting to perform a water hardness test before installation, and not considering the availability of an electrical outlet.

Other common issues include improper connection of drain and overflow tubes, failure to level the unit, and using low-quality pipe fittings. To ensure a successful water softener installation, it's recommended to hire a professional installer or carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Leave Your Water Softener Installation to Puragain Water's Experienced Team

Looking for a professional and reliable water softener installation service? Look no further than Puragain Water! Our team of experts is equipped with the knowledge and tools to ensure your water treatment systems are installed in the optimal location, whether indoors or outdoors.

We take into account various factors such as water quality, access to power, and space constraints to determine the best installation scenario for your needs. Trust us to handle the installation process from start to finish, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

To schedule your whole-house water filtration systems installation with the best in the industry, fill out our online form or contact us at 855-40-WATER at Puragain Water today!

Contact us to discuss your requirements of Wholesale Water Softeners. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.