Page 17 Fall Home Improvement 2025 Lincoln Daily News The bene ts go beyond brighter laundry and softer showers. Appliances last longer when scale isn’t choking their components. “Having soft water, you don’t get scale build up. You extend the life of your water heater, which is a major expense,” Jacobs emphasizes. He adds that families also save money: “People cut their soap down by two-thirds of what they’re using after they get a water softener. It actually pays for itself.” So what does it cost? Fresh Water Systems lists a typical range between $600 and $1,500 depending on household size and water hardness. Jacobs estimates the price of new units today start around $1,100 and rises with in ation. A well-maintained system can last 20 years or more, requiring little more than replenishing salt in the brine tank. If you are dealing with decreased pressure from scale-ridden pipes, dry skin, stiff laundry, or water heaters that seem to give out too soon, chances are your home is in hard water territory. The decision ultimately comes down to whether you’re ready to trade in mineral buildup for clear pipes, efficient appliances, and a smoother daily routine. [Sophia Larimore] Sources: https://www.freshwatersystems.com/blogs/ blog/what-is-a-water-softener-and-how-doesit-work https://samcotech.com/ion-exchange-systemwork/
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