For a qualified Water Softener engineer, installing a unit can be achieved in 2 to 5 hours depending on the location and work required. The process itself is not overly complicated, however, there are strict guidelines that need to be adhered in order to be compliant with WRAS regulations. Infinity Water Softeners are also non-electric, therefore no plug sockets or electrical modifications are required.
Water Softener Installation
Why you need a home survey
When considering purchasing a Water Softener for your home, you should request an authorised and qualified installer to visit your home for a quick survey. This should only take 10 to 15 minutes to establish:
- The hardness of your water by checking the PPM level
- Identify where your mains supply enters the home
- Locate the most suitable place to install the unit (usually under the sink)
- Assess the existing pipework that may need some modifying
- Recommend the most suitable product based on the above points and usage requirements.
By completing a home survey you can rest assured that your engineer will be well prepared to install the unit and that you have the best device for your needs.
What happens on the day of installation
On the day the water softener is installed, you’ll be required to clear the area where the unit is to be situated for the engineer to gain easy access. During the installation, the mains water supply will be turned off until the unit has been plumbed in and the appropriate valves have been added to the pipework. These valves will provide easy shut-off and bypass options should you require them.
Once the installation is complete, your engineer will run the system through a series of checks, including measuring water flow rate has not been compromised. Finally, the engineer will perform a PPM check to show you the new levels and that the water is being successfully softened.
Installation FAQs
Am I able to install a water softener?
No, a water softener should be installed by homeowners.
Can a plumber install a water softener?
We only recommend qualified water softener engineers to install our water softeners. This is to ensure the installation is completed following industry and WRAS guidelines.
How long does it take to install a water softener?
The installation of a water softener will take approximately 2 to 5 hours depending on where the unit is installed and pipework needed.
Will I have running water during the water softener installation?
No, the mains water supply will be turned off while the pipework is completed. Once the unit is connected the mains supply will be tuned back on.
Water Softener Maintenance
To maintain the water softener’s optimum efficiency, the unit needs to be topped up with approved salt as the supply depletes. This is the only responsibility you have to maintain the unit, as it will self-clean as and when required.
Why salt is required to maintain a water softener
The salt is used to cleanse the tanks of the calcium and magnesium deposits extracted from the water supply. Without the salt, the minerals will remain in the tank preventing the unit from softening the water. You can either purchase block or tablet salt to refill the unit. As the tank becomes saturated with these minerals the unit will auto-detect when cleaning is needed. With Infinity Water Softeners the units have two tanks allowing regeneration (cleaning) to be performed while the second tank continues to provide you with uninterrupted soft water.
Maintenance FAQs
Will my water softener need servicing?
No, it’s not a requirement to have an annual service, but you can request one for peace of mind. Yearly serving will help prolong the life of the unit and ensure peak performance.
Can I use any salt in the water softener?
It’s not recommended to use any other salt other than purposely manufactured salt for water softeners. The reason for this is that regular salt is composed of small crystals that create a mush within the system which can compromise the unit.
How long will the salt last?
The length of time the salt will last depends on your usage, however, as a guide, the average home would normally replenish the salt every six to eight weeks.
How often will the softener clean itself?
The self-cleaning process or regeneration will depend on how hard your main water supply is and your usage. The harder the water, the more minerals will need to be extracted filling the tank quicker.
How long does the regeneration take?
The regeneration or cleaning process will take approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
How much noise does the water softener make?
The only time you will hear the water softener is during the regeneration process. During this time you may hear a low-level hum.
Customer Reviews
4 easy steps to getting soft water at home
