The term "hard water" refers to a potable water supply that contains a high level of dissolved mineralsmostly calcium and magnesium. Installing a SharkBite Fitting onto your copper pipes itself isnt hard to do. jQuery(document).ready(function($){ $("#frm_field_43_container .frm_error").clone().insertAfter("#frm_form_7_container .frm_submit"); }); with Whirlpool Before you install a water softener, you need to have the right tools and materials for the job. Push the pipe. SharkBite fittings are simply plumbing fittings designed as a push-to-connect system. Installing SharkBite fittings on copper piping essentially involves only two necessary steps. But, more comprehensive systems usually cost between $1,000 and $11,000. Watch your inbox for our simple home maintenance tips. While you may know you need a water softener after testing your waters hardness, the thought of installing a water softener can be daunting. For these pricier systems, costs are between $6,000 and $7,000. This will stop water from escaping your plumbing while you install the ion exchange system. Salt-free systems work similarly to ion exchange systems, except they use potassium instead of sodium. This 2023 guide breaks down the different costs associated with installing a water softener system and the average costs you can expect. To stop wastewater from entering back into your unit, you need an air gap of at least 1.5 inches. The softener will now be ready to produce softened water in your home. Aaron Stickley is a licensed plumber with 15 years of experience in commercial, new residential plumbing, and residential service and repair. The ion exchange system flows water through sodium ions in a resin tank, where they undergo an exchange process, swapping in clean sodium ions for the hard ones. One of the drain tubes connects to the control valve and is used to void the backwash water during the regeneration cycle. Systems, equipment, issues and circumstances vary. Being a Los Angeles resident, Jessica spends a lot of her time looking for her next DIY project and sharing her love for home design. Learn More. A water softener removes minerals from your water supply and prevents scale buildup in your plumbing systems. Neglecting the heater can eventually lead to replacing the system entirely. You can buy covers and enclosures for an outdoor water softener, or construct your own housing. The PEX stiffener does not need to be removed for Copper or CPVC applications. However, for any other system that requires larger installation, you should (and may be required by law to) hire a professional to complete the installation. Use hose clamps to secure the drain hose, then connect the bottom end of the hose to a suitable drain and secure it in position. Why doesnt my threaded copper pipe fit a SharkBite reducer? The Forbes Home editorial team is independent and objective. Using a ruler or tape measure, find the length between the mark you made and the tip of the string. All third party entity names and logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. Learn about proper product care and handling for the SharkBite EvoPEX system. Nafeesah Allen, Ph.D. is a migration scholar and editorial strategist who covers global finance, business, real estate, start-up founding & funding, parenting, travel, culture and more. Quote from the video: So they will most likely use the best materials during the job. If your home uses an electric water heater, you should turn this off as a precaution. Consequently, you should test your waters hardness levels to determine if going through the trouble and expense of installing a water softener is absolutely necessary. You need to insert the pipe through the release collar allowing it to sit against the grab ring. Fill the brine tank with the amount of water and sodium or potassium chloride salt thats recommended by the manufacturer. However, there is a growing selection of DIYers who would disagree. Because the chemical method by which a water softener removes minerals from water can be a little difficult to understand, it's easy to imagine that installing a water softener is quite complicated. Most water softeners can be put outside, but its best to look for one that is specifically advertised for both indoor and outdoor use. The information and savings numbers depicted above are for demonstration purposes only, and your results may vary. They are best for drinking water. To replace an existing water softener, youll only need 1-2 hours. The type you use may depend on your local building codes, the type of pipe your homes main water line uses or personal preference. Every installation scenario is different, but some general plumbing requirements for installation include: Your water softener will need power to function, and general water softener electrical requirements include: Wondering how to install a water softener with a well? Flexible supply lines are often the easiest to use since they dont require any cutting or pre-assembly, but you may need to use a special adapter to connect the flexible line to your water supply line and/or the water softeners bypass valve. Find a suitable flat location for the water softener, accessible on all sides. If it has a white collar, the fitting works with PVC pipe and is compatible with schedule 40, 80 and 120 PVC. If you only have moderately hard water, you can DIY install a smaller water softener directly under the sink. Another factor that may affect the final price of your DIY water softener project is the ease of installation. of products to find the ideal unit for your needs. Dispose of the water softener and resin separately. Could have done a similarly effective hack job with 1/10 of the length of pex and two less fittings I would think. The type of adapters you use will depend on what type of water supply pipes are used in your home. Pushing the clip against the release collar, pull the tube with a twisting motion to release. Please note that we do receive compensation for any products you buy or sign up to via this advertisement, and that compensation impacts the ranking and placement of any offers listed herein. Mildly hard water is usually not a problem requiring a solution, but with severely hard water, installing a water softener is the most complete and common solution. If you have really hard water in your region, it may be worth installing a water softener system to ensure the integrity of your appliances and plumbing, as well to prevent dry and irritated skin after showering or washing your hands. SharkBite PEX fittings make it easy to transition between pipe types during repairs. Humidity and freezing could also damage the softener salt, which may hinder the performance of the unit. How do you connect PVC pipe to water softener? All Rights Reserved. Complex installations may include working around hard-to-reach water mains, installing new pipes and maintaining a large water softener system. He started his own residential service and repair plumbing business. There are several types of water softener systems and each have a slightly different cost. Put the softener into bypass, then gradually switch on your water and open a nearby faucet. Update your cookie settings to view this content. How To: Install Large Diameter SharkBite Fittings Before you begin, double-check that the fitting and piping are in good condition, clean, and free of any foreign objects or apparent damage. Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for SharkBite3/4 in. Planning your budget and want to know exactly how, much it will be to install your water softener. Install the system on the side of your house, as close to your waters point of entry as possible. Cut out a section of the water supply line and install adapters to accept the flex tube fittings. Shop SharkBite 24-in 1-in Push-to-Connect Inlet x 1-in FIP Outlet Corrugated Stainless Steel Water Softener Connector in the Appliance Supply Lines & Drain Hoses department at Lowe's.com. Lexie is a Deputy Editor who is responsible for writing and editing articles over a wide variety of home-related topics. Enable Performance and Targeting Cookies to view this content. The pipe connected to where the main line continues into your home should be installed onto the outlet side of the softener. Turn on the home's water supply system by opening the main shutoff valve. Copyright Sections of copper plumbing pipe and fittings can either be soldered together with solder flux and a blow torch, or connected with push-fit fittings like SharkBite connectors. Also, some townships legally require a professional plumber to do the installation. Before we share how to install a water softener, lets look at where to install your system. The project description offers a basic overview of the work; consult the manufacturer's instructions for more detailed information on how to install your particular water softener. Replacing an old water softener is easier than installing a new system. Some research on the different types of water softenersand how they function is a good idea. To avoid this, have the anode rod regularly inspected and replaced when necessary. On. Make sure the location you choose provides access to an electrical outlet for the power, and a drain for water discharge. Stainless steel corrugated connectors can be used as an alternative to hard piping. The 1-in SharkBite 'Show more' : 'Show less' }}. Model # 25538. The national average for a water softener system installation, including labor and materials, is around $1,500. Building a new home on a budget is a rewarding endeavor. You shouldnt need to plumb the system into your water line because youll already have a dedicated setup for your existing softener. Pipe Compatibility 9 Total Available Products Display 12 | 18 | All Toilet Connection Kit Shower / Tub Connection Kit Can I safely attach new fittings to an older PEX A line? SharkBite PEX fittings make it easy to transition between pipe types during repairs. The 1-in SharkBite x 1-in FIP x 24-in water softener connector is the fastest way to connect water supply lines to your water softener unit. Push-to-Connect Braided Water Softener Connector FIP X 18 In. All third party Two 1 NPT female connectors and enough tubing to connect from the water softener to your existing plumbing. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. To install the drain line, connect the units drain valve to the drain hose, and attach flexible tubing to the brine tank and control valve. However, as long as they are installed correctly, they have been known to last upwards of 30 to 35 years. Conventional plumbing methods require that you have the patience, expertise and tools to implement them. Connect the flex lines to the water supply pipes, then into the back of the water softener unit, as directed by the manufacturer. Unhook it from your plumbing, then follow the steps above to install the new system, skipping step 3 (and step 4, if you already have a working bypass valve). These smaller systems often come with step-by-step instructions. SharkBite carries a wide range of braided and corrugated flexible water heater hoses that connect to PEX, copper, CPVC, or HDPE pipe. Get the latest HomeServe news, tips, and promotional messages, including special offers. 2023 Use the chart below to determine the nominal diameter (actual pipe size). Using either the tongs or clip, youll need to apply pressure to the release collar. How Much Does A Home Security System Cost. If you follow the charts above, you will select the correct SharkBite Fitting size for your pipes. Using a slight twisting motion, push the pipe firmly into the SharkBite fitting until you hit the tube stop. Although recommended to be used in accordance with an access panel, SharkBite fittings are IAPMO tested and are approved for underground and behind-the-wall use. In our example, the owner has installed a dedicated drain pipe with a trap, into which they have run the two drain tubes for the water softener. This will happen before the end of the pipe reaches the tube stop. Looks like someone wanted to install a whole house water filter and forgot the filter. When you use the SharkBite fittings underground, you will want to use the push-to-connect ones so that installation is a bit easier. Once youve secured the correct size fitting and piping, you can begin installing the SharkBite fitting onto your copper pipe. Be sure the pipe is free of scratches and debris. Heres How to Know and How to Treat It. Locate the overflow valve and attach the hose, securing it in place with a clamp. You can install SharkBite fittings in a matter of minutes using some essential tools that you probably already have in your home. Quote from Youtube video: You cannot connect the drain line from a water softener. I agree to receive the Forbes Home newsletter via e-mail. Why can I no longer turn the knob of my self-locking door from the inside? Where To Find Cheap Or Free Building Materials To Build A Home On A Budget. | However, most require the same basic installation process. These systems work by boiling water and catching the vapor. To install a water softener, shut off your water supply, then cut into your water line and attach the bypass valve, inlet and outlet ports, drain line, and overflow connection. Step 1: Preparation First, switch off your water supply. The main difference between CPVC and PVC is the range of temperatures each is capable of withstanding. Learn how to install SharkBite push-to-connect stop valves with ease. This trend has changed in recent years, and state health departments now recommend that water softeners are advisable only when tests show that the mineral content of the water exceeds 7 grains per gallon. Now, turn on your water and check the connections. Lets explore SharkBite fittings in further detail. As long as you have the right tools and equipment, and closely follow the user manual, you shouldnt find the process too difficult. Home; Water Softeners . Regional office:150 King Street West Suite 200, Toronto, ON M5H 1J9. Before installing a water softener, make sure that you truly need one, and weigh the possible negatives. Once the cycle is complete, check the brine tank and adjust the brine solution as necessary. Watch how to use the SharkBite Pro Disconnect Tool to release SharkBite brass push-to-connect fittings with ease. Clean the tank every three to four months to prevent resin build up. Connect the drain tubes to each tank and run them to the closest drain. Youll hear a noise as air leaves the unit through the drain. All water softeners are different, and you should consult your user manual for specific product information. A slightly different cost installing new pipes and maintaining a large water softener removes from! 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Likely use the push-to-connect ones So that installation is a licensed plumber with years... I no longer turn the knob of my self-locking door from the inside own service! Install adapters to accept the flex tube fittings Build a home on a budget is bit. Special offers actual pipe size ) replace an existing water softener system installation, including offers... 80 and 120 PVC capable of withstanding or clip, youll only 1-2.
