Installing softening systems is the perfect solution to solving hard water problems, but there are several factors to consider first. In particular, if you are struggling whether to rent or buy a water softener, you need to know which system is appropriate for your home’s requirements, what’s necessary for continuing maintenance, and how much it will cost.
A water softener can require a significant financial commitment, and not everyone feels they can afford one. Have you thought of getting a water softener for your house? Hard water may affect your home’s plumbing system and it may wear out major appliances. Read more about hard water compared to soft water.
By renting a softening system, you can take advantage of a water system’s advantages without spending much money up front. Is renting or purchasing the better choice? Continue reading if you’re unsure whether to rent or buy a water softener.
Advantages of a Water Softener Rental
Almost every wise decision has advantages and disadvantages, even the best ones! There are significant benefits and drawbacks to renting a water softener, so let’s look at those now. Renting a water softener for short period can be a good investment. Here are the advantages a rented system:
Short-term Solution
No initial investment makes it easier to start with smaller budgets. Using a softener for up to two to three years can be less expensive than making an upfront purchase. Also, depending on your rental agreement you may be able to return the softener if you change your mind.
No Additional Maintenance and repair costs – Sometimes
Some rental agreements may have the rental fees include maintenance and repairs. You often don’t have to pay any further fees if the softener breaks down or needs repairs. Moreover, the system replacement shouldn’t cost you extra because the rental agreement can include the replacement costs. Therefore, the renters could get a free replacement when water softeners are outdated or damaged.
Disadvantages of a Water Softener Rental
While renting a water softener for your house has some benefits, there are also some drawbacks.
Expensive
Renting is more expensive in the long run since you must commit to paying every month. Older softener systems are probably less effective and can cost you more money in plumbing and appliance maintenance. The fees might not cover installation and regular upkeep. Therefore, self-repairing problems may cost hundreds of dollars.
You cannot Claim Ownership
You don’t own the system, so you cannot modify it. Moreover, you will not have financial benefits if you sell your home. If you are a renter, obtaining permission is crucial. Your landlord may forbid you from renting softening systems for your rental house.
Might Receive Used Product
You’ll likely receive a used equipment because rental companies rarely provide brand-new systems. Since rentals frequently use older, more limited models, you will have limited and most likely less efficient options.
Benefits of Buying a Water Softener
Purchasing water softeners is a major investment. However, installing these systems also has advantages and disadvantages. The following are the benefits of purchasing a water softener:
Saves Money
When buying a new water softener you can get the latest technology that is more energy efficient. You’ll have a more cost-effective system with a newer water softener, ultimately saving on your water, salt, and energy bills. Along with the many other benefits of soft water.
Offers Warranties
Although the buyers can occasionally extend their warranty up to three years, the typical new water softener comes with a one-year warranty. There may be a three-year guarantee on some systems, such as electronic components, and a more extended warranty on additional features, such as the tank.
Fewer Issues and Repairs
It is unpleasant to request repair orders on a property that isn’t brand new, even though rents typically include maintenance services. A newer system will function better with fewer inconveniences.
Buyers can Claim Ownership
Once paid for, you own it. The only costs you will have to pay are maintenance and repairs, unlike rental water softeners that require you to pay monthly or annual payment plans. In addition, you are free to select your system. Since there are no restrictions and limitations by a rental company, buyers can purchase the best water softener for their house.
Payment Plans Available
Suppose you’re a homeowner who wants to own a water-softening system but is on a strict spending plan. In that case, you might be qualified for financing options that will help you pay monthly installments to purchase the water softener systems.
Disadvantages of Buying Water Softeners
Upfront Cost
The initial costs, which can be overwhelming, are the main disadvantage of owning a water softener. Financing may be an adequate remedy. Renting comes to mind when you think about the monthly expenses, but financing makes far more sense since you will own it at the end of your payment plan.
Ideal for long-term investment
Owning a water softener is an ideal investment if you plan to use them for at least two to three years. However, if your landlord doesn’t allow it, you won’t be able to install a water-softening system in a rental property.
Comparison of Water Softener Rental Costs vs. Buying Costs
Depending on the water softener’s quality, local competition, the manufacturer you rent from, and whether you’ll pay for your maintenance and repairs, the average monthly cost to rent a water softening system ranges from $25 to $50.
These systems typically last at least ten years. If you rent a softener for extended period at $30 per month, your overall expenses will be $3,600. Depending on the terms of your rental agreement, you can potentially have additional costs for repairs and upkeep.
If your rental price does not include maintenance, you will likely have to pay an additional $200 to $500 for this, depending on the costs of plumbing issues.
Water softeners can cost anywhere between $600 and $1,700, so water softener renting for a three-year period is more expensive than purchasing it. Renting for a more extended period will cost you more money overall.
In addition, depending on the system you choose and its size, the installation costs of these systems range from $500 to $6,000.
| Type | Install | 1 Year | 3 Years | 5 Years | 10 Years | Total |
| Water Softener Rental ($30/mo) | $500 | $360 | $1,080 | $1,800 | $3,600 | $4,100 |
| Water Softener Purchase ($1,500 price) | $500 | $1,500 | $1,500 | $1,500 | $1,500 | $2,000 |
Does a water softener increase property value?
Water softeners can help you save a ton of money, but let’s talk about how adding water softeners to your home might boost its worth. Estimates for property value increases range from $5,000 – $10,000 for having a water softener system already installed in your home.
When looking for a home, buyers frequently look for water softener systems, so having one in your home is a nice bonus. These systems will increase your home’s appeal to potential buyers and give them greater confidence in making an offer; it may even seal the sale.
Is it worth buying a water softener?
Limescale accumulation around faucets and kitchen sink results from hard water, which can also harm your equipment. The only efficient method for treating hard water is installing a water softener system. Renting makes less sense if you intend to put one of these priceless gadgets in your home, compared to purchasing and owning a water softener.
When you rent a water softener, you’ll probably wind up spending more than you would’ve if you had bought one in the first place. Some rental agreements demand that you pay for ongoing upkeep and repairs.
The rental company may hold you liable for the maintenance costs if the system fails due to carelessness on your part, personal harm, mishaps, flaws from freezing, fire, or failure to follow usage instructions.
Since there are so many water softeners available, you can access a more extensive selection of brand new model. A water softener that you purchase is yours. Nobody can take it away from you; therefore, you are free to use it any way you want, whenever you want.
Compared to renting, purchasing a softener offers you a more long-term alternative. Most dealers will provide a warranty and money-back guarantee on the equipment. These coverages might shield you from ongoing maintenance and repair expenses if the softener experiences a problem.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, putting in a water softener resolves many of the issues that hard water in your home can bring. It saves you money on clothing, detergents, soaps, appliances, home upkeep, and other expenses over time, making it a smart investment that might eventually pay for itself.
It’s easy to see the difference between whether to rent or buy a water softener, as it helps you save money. The best choice is to install a water softener for long-term benefits. Therefore, if you are looking for reliable providers, contact DROP to purchase right system.
Sources
- https://www.abchomeandcommercial.com/blog/is-a-water-softener-worth-it/#:~:text=Water%20softeners%20are%20valuable%20for,your%20pipes%20and%20water%20fixtures.
- https://www.angi.com/articles/plumber-warns-against-renting-water-softeners.htm
- https://www.water-rightgroup.com/resources/is-it-cheaper-to-rent-or-buy-a-water-softener/
- https://housegrail.com/renting-vs-buying-a-water-softener/
- https://indysoftwater.com/blog/water-softener-rental-vs-buying/
- https://www.harlemworldmagazine.com/does-having-a-water-softener-increase-home-value/
