When to Tell If It’s Time for a New Water Softener

In this blog post, our team at Reliant Plumbing walks you through the top signs that your water softener may need to be replaced, what problems can arise when it fails, and what to do next.



Signs You Need a New Water Softener—and What to Do Before It Fails

Living in Cambridge, Ontario means dealing with hard water—minerals like calcium and magnesium that can affect your plumbing, appliances, and even your skin. That’s why water softeners are essential in many local homes. But like any appliance, they don’t last forever. So, how do you know when it’s time for a new water softener?

1. Your Water Feels Different

The Sign:

Your hands feel sticky after washing? Skin dry or itchy even after moisturizing?

What It Means:

If your water softener isn’t removing minerals effectively, it may be worn out. You’ll start to feel the difference in your skin, hair, and laundry.

2. Buildup on Faucets and Showerheads

The Sign:

White, chalky residue on your fixtures or cloudy glassware even after washing.

What It Means:

This is mineral buildup (scale), and it means your softener isn’t working. Left alone, it can damage appliances like dishwashers or hot water heaters.

3. Soap Doesn’t Lather or Rinse Properly

The Sign:

You’re using more soap or shampoo to get a decent lather.

What It Means:

Hard water makes soap less effective. If this is happening, your softener may be nearing the end.

4. Your Softener Is Over 10–15 Years Old

The Sign:

Your softener is working, but it’s 10+ years old.

What It Means:

Softener systems lose efficiency over time. Replacing it before total failure avoids bigger headaches later.

5. Low Water Pressure

The Sign:

You’ve noticed a drop in water pressure across your home.

What It Means:

Mineral buildup or internal failure inside your softener could be clogging your system.

6. Leaks or Salt Bridge Buildup

The Sign:

You see water pooling around the unit, or salt forming a hard crust in the brine tank.

What It Means:

Leaks mean internal damage. Salt bridging can signal inconsistent performance.

7. Higher Water or Energy Bills

The Sign:

Your utility bills have increased but your usage hasn’t.

What It Means:

Old water softeners can waste both water and energy. A newer system will often pay for itself in savings.

Why This Matters in Cambridge

Cambridge and nearby areas like Kitchener and Guelph are known for hard water. If your water softener isn’t working, you risk pipe damage, appliance wear, and skin irritation.

Need a New Water Softener? We Can Help

At Reliant Plumbing, we specialize in water softener installation and replacement across Cambridge. Our licensed plumbers will test your water, evaluate your current system, and recommend the best solution for your home.

Serving: Cambridge, Galt, Hespeler, Preston, Kitchener, Waterloo
📞 Call: 519-778-3828
🌐 Visit: www.reliantplumbing.ca