If your water softener is getting older — or not working the way it used to — you’re probably wondering whether it’s worth repairing, or whether it’s time to replace it. This is one of the most common questions we get from homeowners in Waterloo Region, especially because our extremely hard water puts extra strain on older systems.

Here’s a simple, honest checklist to help you decide what makes the most sense for your home.

1. How old is your softener?

Most North American–made softeners last 15–20 years in our region. Some go longer, but once you’re past the 12–15 year mark, repairs tend to become more frequent — and more expensive.

If your softener was installed in the early 2000s (or before), replacement is usually the better investment.

2. Are you seeing repeat issues?

A single problem — like a stuck valve or a salt bridge — is usually worth fixing.

But if you’re seeing issues, such as:

• resin beads in your faucet aerators

• constant hard water

• the softener regenerating at the wrong time

• low water pressure

• leaking tanks or fittings

…it’s a sign the internal components are wearing out.

In our region’s hard water, repeated repairs usually mean the system is at the end of its life.

3. Are repair costs adding up?

A standard repair can cost $150–$300 depending on the issue. Two or three repair visits quickly approach the price of a new, reliable, warrantied softener.

If you’re facing more than one repair visit a year, replacement is almost always the smarter choice.

4. Is the softener still the right size for your home?

Homes change. Families grow. Water use increases.

If your current softener is:

• too small

• undersized for modern appliances

• working overtime to keep up

…you may be paying more in salt, water, and hydro than necessary.

Newer units are more efficient and better sized for today’s households.

5. Is your water suddenly hard again?

The easiest way to spot a failing softener is:

• white spots on dishes

• stiff laundry

• itchy skin

• soap that won’t lather

• scale on taps

• “hard water” feel in the shower

If these symptoms return even after you’ve checked the salt and cleaned the tank, the softener may no longer be regenerating properly.

At this point, replacement is usually the most cost-effective solution.

💧 When Repair Makes Sense

It’s worth repairing your softener if:

• it’s under 10 years old

• you’ve had few problems

• the issue is a simple stuck valve or salt bridge

• you’re planning to upgrade later but need a short-term fix

A qualified technician can assess the problem quickly and tell you which option makes the most sense.

💧 When Replacement Makes Sense

Replacement is the better choice when:

• your softener is 12–20+ years old

• repairs have become frequent

• resin is breaking down (low water pressure is the first sign, bypass your softener to avoid resin escape) 

• the unit is leaking

• the softener is no longer keeping up with your water use

A new, high-quality softener will give you softer water, lower salt use, and fewer headaches.

💧 Final Thoughts

Hard water in Waterloo Region is challenging — and older softeners eventually struggle to keep up. A quick evaluation using this checklist can save you money and frustration in the long run.

Ontario Soft Water has water solutions at affordable prices. We've been serving the Region for over 25 years.  CONTACT US