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Yearly running costs
| Item | Published cost |
|---|---|
| Salt or potassium | $50–$150 per year (HomeGuide)1 |
| 40-lb bag of salt | $5–$10 (Angi)2 |
| 40-lb bag of potassium chloride | $50–$70 (Angi)2 |
| Maintenance | $100–$300+ per year, depending on system (HomeGuide)1 |
| All-inclusive service contract | $100–$250 per year (HomeGuide)3 |
| Repair | $150–$600 on average (HomeGuide)3 |
The routine
- Check and refill salt at least once a month. HomeGuide recommends keeping the salt level 3–4 inches above the water level.3
- Clean the brine tank every 1–5 years, depending on whether you're on city water or a well.3
- Expect to replace the resin every 5–10 years.3
Cutting salt use
HomeGuide notes that high-efficiency systems use less salt per regeneration.1 Setting the correct hardness matters too: how to set it.
More: salt-free vs. salt-based · softener cost
Sources
- HomeGuide: water softener cost, including ongoing salt and maintenance costs (2026)
- Angi: water softener installation cost, including salt prices (2026)
- HomeGuide: water softener repair, service and maintenance cost (2026)
Last reviewed Oct 13, 2026. This is general information, not professional advice. Confirm figures with your utility and installer.