How much does a water softener cost?
A water softener is the unit plus a plumbing install near the mains. Get an indicative supply-and-fit figure below.
What a water softener install involves
- 1Fit near the mains
The softener is plumbed into the incoming main after the stopcock, usually with a hard-water spur kept for a drinking tap.
- 2Drain connection
It needs a drain for the regeneration cycle — simplest where a drain is close to the fitting position.
- 3Running cost
It uses salt (block or tablet), a modest ongoing cost, in return for scale-free pipes, boiler and fittings.
A water softener is a niche but genuine upgrade in hard-water regions, protecting the very things a refurbishment just installed — the boiler, cylinder and new bathrooms — from scale. It's a small, self-contained plumbing job to add during a refit.
Water softener costs (indicative, fitted)
| Item | Basis | Indicative cost |
|---|---|---|
| Softener unit (supply) | unit | £400 – £1,000 |
| Installation | near mains + drain | £200 – £600 |
| All-in (supply & fit) | — | £600 – £1,600 |
| Salt (running cost) | per year | £40 – £100/yr |
Best value in hard-water areas. Needs a drain connection and a spur to keep a drinking-water tap unsoftened.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a water softener cost?+
A water softener typically costs £600–£1,600 supplied and fitted, plus around £40–£100 a year in salt. It's most worthwhile in hard-water areas, where it protects the boiler, pipes and fittings from scale.
Is a water softener worth it?+
In a hard-water area, yes — it reduces limescale in the boiler, cylinder, pipes and taps (which extends their life) and improves the feel of the water. In a soft-water area there's little benefit.
Related tools & guides
Want to know how these figures are calculated? See our cost methodology.
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