Water softener repair
When the scale creeps back, the softener usually has a fixable problem. Here's how repairs tend to go.
Most softener trouble shows up the same way: spots and crust return, soap stops lathering, or the salt level never moves. Sometimes the fix is simple, like an empty brine tank or a clock that reset after a power blip during a summer storm. Other times it's a worn valve part, a plugged injector or resin that's worn out.
What usually goes wrong?
- Salt bridge. A hard crust forms in the brine tank and the salt above it never dissolves, so the unit regenerates without brine.
- Clock or settings off. Outages can reset older timers, so the unit regenerates at the wrong time or not at all.
- Clogged injector or brine line. The unit can't pull brine from the salt tank.
- Worn seals or pistons in the control valve. Water runs to the drain nonstop, or hard water slips past the resin.
- Fouled resin. Iron and manganese, both mentioned in the city's water report and common in wells, coat the resin over time and cut its capacity.
- Leaks at the bypass, fittings or tank.
What can I check before calling?
- Make sure the bypass valve is set to service, not bypass.
- Check that the unit has power and the clock shows the right time.
- Look in the brine tank. Salt sitting on top with no water under it, or a solid crust, points to a bridge.
- Write down the brand, model and rough age from the sticker on the control head.
Repair or replace?
A valve rebuild or fresh resin can keep a good unit going for years. If the softener is old, parts are scarce, or it was never sized for your water, a replacement may make more sense. Ask the technician to show you what failed and to explain what each option involves. More on replacement.
The water treatment company prices the job once it knows your water, your plumbing and what equipment fits. We don't quote prices, and any number you hear over the phone before someone has tested the water and seen the install spot is only a rough starting point.
Where we connect you with help
Common questions
Why isn't my softener using salt?
Often it's a salt bridge, a plugged brine line or injector, or a control problem that stops regeneration. Check for a crust in the brine tank first.
Can you fix any brand?
Many companies service several brands. Give them the brand and model when you call so they can check on parts.
Related services
- Water softener installation
- Water softener replacement
- Whole-house filtration
- Reverse osmosis drinking water
More background: Las Cruces hard water guide.
Crusty faucets, cloudy glasses or a softener that gave up?
Call the number above and a local water treatment company will help you sort out what your water needs.