Hard Water, No Longer
From less buildup on sinks and showers to smoother hair and skin, the difference soft water makes in your home is undeniable.
Benefits of Water Softening
Longer-lasting
Appliances
Hydrated Hair
and Skin
Brighter
Laundry
Greater
Savings
Soft Water Made Easy
With Culligan® water softening services, getting soft water throughout your home is easier and more rewarding than ever before.
01
World’s Most Efficient*
Culligan’s HE Water Softeners are the world’s most efficient softening systems, helping you save up to 46% on salt, water and electricity usage.**
02
Smart Features
Use the Culligan Connect app to track water usage and stay on top of maintenance with low-salt alerts and service notifications.
03
Hassle-Free Maintenance
Keep your softening system running smoothly with Culligan’s salt delivery and maintenance programs.
How Water Softening Works
Culligan water softeners use a specialized ion exchange process to remove hard minerals like calcium and magnesium. They also feature auto-regeneration and salt-saving technology, reducing upkeep.
Both rental and purchase options are available, making it easy to find a system that fits your budget while reducing appliance lifespan issues and saving on energy costs.
Start with a Free Water Test
A Culligan water expert will test your water and help you understand exactly what’s in it, then recommend personalized solutions to address your specific hard water issues.
Salt Delivery
Convenient salt delivery directly to your home — no more heavy bags to lift. We’ll keep your water softener running at peak performance.
Trusted for 90 Years
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Learn More About Water Softening
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Water Softening FAQs
What is hard water and how do I know if I have it?
Hard water contains high levels of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium. Signs include white scale buildup on faucets, soap that doesn’t lather well, dry skin and hair after showering, and spots on dishes after washing.
How does a water softener work?
Water softeners use a process called ion exchange to remove calcium and magnesium ions from your water. The hard water passes through a tank filled with resin beads that attract and hold the hard minerals, replacing them with sodium ions.
How often does a water softener need maintenance?
Most water softeners require minimal maintenance. You’ll need to add salt to the brine tank regularly (typically every 4-8 weeks depending on usage) and have the system professionally serviced once a year to ensure optimal performance.
Will soft water affect the taste of my drinking water?
Some people notice a slightly different taste with softened water due to the sodium content. If taste is a concern, many homeowners install a reverse osmosis system at the kitchen sink for drinking water while enjoying softened water throughout the rest of the home.
Is softened water safe for plants and gardens?
The sodium in softened water can accumulate in soil over time, which may affect some plants. We recommend using unsoftened water from an outdoor spigot for watering plants, or installing a bypass for your garden hose connection.
How much does a water softener cost to operate?
Operating costs include salt (typically $5-10 per month), water for regeneration, and minimal electricity. However, soft water can save you money by extending appliance life, reducing soap and detergent usage, and improving water heater efficiency.
Can I install a water softener myself?
While DIY installation is possible for those with plumbing experience, professional installation ensures proper sizing, optimal placement, and correct setup. Culligan offers professional installation and can help you choose the right system for your home’s specific water conditions.
What’s the difference between renting and buying a water softener?
Renting includes maintenance and repairs in a monthly fee with no upfront cost, making it ideal for renters or those who prefer hassle-free service. Buying has higher upfront costs but lower long-term expenses, and you own the equipment outright.