AmeriSpec Home Inspection Service of Bloomington MN wrote this guest post.
As a home inspector, it’s our job to pay attention to everything that’s inside a home. This means deep, thorough looks at every nook and cranny and appliance. Recently, we’ve been inspecting more and more homes with water softeners. We get asked what we look for and at when it comes to water softeners. Here are a few things we pay attention to:
Neglect
This is the biggest thing that will call our attention. A water softener is usually maintained by the homeowner, and a lack of maintenance can lead to breaks and other issues.
Proper installation
When your system is installed, it should include a thorough screening of plumbing quality, repairs and maintenance before it’s turned on. Your pipes need to be free of corrosion and clogs, and checked for major breakage. Additionally, you need to have proper insulation installed before the softener. Every aspect of your water system will be investigated and diagnosed for any maintenance issues. It’s important to note we’ll also look at gas lines for your water heater.
Five-year budget
We recommend creating a five-year budget for water softener installation. Professionals will need to consider all aspects of issues associated with installation, so a budget is essential. And once you find everything to be in order, your water softener should be able to provide you with ferrous-free and hard-mineral free water for many years to come.
The knowledge, skill and experience required to follow these “tips” varies; if you are in doubt as to your ability to properly and safely implement these suggestions, call a qualified professional first. Every home appliance and system is different as are the problems that can affect them. Accordingly, the above-referenced tips are meant only as suggestions to be considered for the listed problems. AmeriSpec cannot be responsible for any damages arising from any actions taken pursuant to tips provided herein. This list is not exhaustive and other remedies may be needed in addition to those listed above.
