Hard water leads to limescale buildup in kitchen and bathroom pipes, showerheads, and other fixtures. Magnesium and calcium are the most common minerals found in public water utility sources. The hard water sediment can cause clogged pipes and leaks. In Akron, a water softener installation is the best way to manage hard water and its unwanted sediment.
At Buddy’s Plumbing Excellence, we offer comprehensive plumbing services, including leak and pipe repairs, routine maintenance, and new installations. We perform whole-home water softener installations that improve your life and your plumbing. Continue reading and learn why you should install a water softener in your home.

I called Tony (owner) and he sent Evan - who was very professional, knowledgeable, and informative. He not only explained that the (very) old sump pump had completely failed, he showed me why: the very very old iron outlet pipe had cracked and then sheared off, forcing the pump to work non-stop 24x7 until it burned out. Evan removed the old pump, float and pipes and then installed the new pump, float, and pipes. The water, now 3 inches deep, was all pumped out in under an hour.
The price was reasonable, and I have confidence in the work in part due to the effective explanations Evan provided.
Fortunately, a year before we had emptied the basement and there was nothing on the floor to be ruined by the storm water.
I called Plumbing Excellence for a second opinion. Jocelyn answered the phone and was very pleasant and helpful. She got me on the schedule the very next morning. The technician, Justin, arrived on time and ran the camera, identified the issue AND the location, and only charged me the $89 service call fee. The issue is not under my basement but in the yard and won't require them to tear up my basement floor. The estimate was very reasonable for the size of the job. They also gave me a narrated video of the camera work that explained the issue and what needed to be fixed.
I was very pleased with my experience with Plumbing Excellence. I highly recommend them. They will be getting my plumbing business from now on.
After speaking with the manager, he explained that it's routine for them to give additional options for appliances and services. The technician quoted me an electric anode rod install and membership.
It did make me feel a little overwhelmed by the price after these quotes, so I did decline them. I think it would be a better approach to print out pamphlets or email them to customers to review and look into upgraded parts or options. That way they can do their own research and decide if they want to go with them before spending the extra money.
I do recommend this company if you have plumbing needs, and the manager said he will take my advice about the pamphlets and look into doing that.
What Is a Water Softener Installation?
A water softener installation is a plumbing product that removes sediment from tap water. Plumbers install the water softeners in basements or utility rooms and connect the devices to the plumbing lines. We can install the water softener where your water source is most accessible.
When selecting a water softener, you’ll need an outdoor model if the installation site isn’t climate-controlled. Water softeners also connect to an electrical supply and a drain. Our plumbers install water softeners on a flat surface like a slab.
Water softeners are either point-of-use or point-of-entry systems. A point-of-entry system is appropriate for whole-home water softening. A point-of-use water softener is centrally located in your home and used by only one fixture like a sink or shower.
Why Do You Need a Water Softener?
Hard water can cause limescale to build up in your water lines. Signs of hard water are spotty dishes and foul odors in your washing machine. It can also make your clothing fade faster or become stiff after washing. Your hair, skin, or nails could become dry or brittle. You may notice metallic odors in your tap water, and your water may have an odd taste.
Hard water causes low water pressure and corrosion in water pipes and appliances that use water, like dishwashers. It can also cause a grimy film on your plumbing fixtures, like your faucets. Installing a water softener is the solution to these common household problems. Call Your Fixed-Right-The-First-Time-Plumbers for a water softener installation now.
How Do Water Softeners Operate?
A water softener installation uses resin beads that work like magnets to attract sediment and minerals. The minerals and sediment become trapped in the resin beads, and the negatively charged beads release potassium and sodium ions into the water. The processed water is distributed through your water lines and your plumbing fixtures.
What are Common Water Softener Problems?
A professionally installed water softener will last up to 15 years. However, you must schedule routine maintenance and schedule repairs as needed. Our plumbers perform water softener maintenance services and will inspect the device for component failures.
If you notice clogs, leaks, poor water flow, or motor issues, you’ll need repairs. Some models experience control system issues that halt regeneration cycles, and resin depletion prevents proper ion exchange. Manufacturers recommend resin bead replacement every seven years.
Water softeners require regular salt replacement and brine tank cleaning. You’ll need salt replacements every six weeks to get the most from the water softener. Schedule brine tank cleaning annually to prevent salt bridges.
Salt bridges occur if the salt doesn’t dissolve properly inside the brine tank. However, if you’re using salt with a lower purity level, you’ll need brine tank cleaning more often.
Faulty brine lines or injectors cause brine tank overflow. The float valve controls water levels, but if it malfunctions, the valve cannot regulate the tank’s water levels. Resin bed issues and clogged drain lines are also culprits for this problem.
Why Do You Need a Professional?
Professional plumbers conduct hard water tests before recommending a water softener model. These tests determine the correct size and capacity to meet your soft water demands. Licensed and bonded plumbers are well-versed in electrical and plumbing codes and safety regulations. They will not only install the water softener properly, but they will also make sure it is up to code and safe.
You’ll receive a product warranty for the water softener with a professional installation. You’ll need to schedule routine maintenance services to avoid problems. Routine water softener maintenance also retains your warranty coverage and keeps your system up to code.
Why Should You Hire Buddy’s Plumbing Excellence?
At Buddy’s Plumbing Excellence, we know it’s important to you to protect your plumbing system and to get the most from these home services. Our family-owned and operated company offers high-quality plumbing services, including new water softener installations, plumbing repairs, and routine maintenance.
Our licensed and bonded plumbers can recommend the best water softener for your home. We can assess your water supply connections and pinpoint the most appropriate installation site for your new device. All new plumbing products come with a warranty, and we perform routine maintenance and repairs as needed. Call us now for Plumbing at the Speed of NOW.