Removing water softener?

Question

This will be my first property to rent out, acquired through an inheritance.

It has a water softener the front yard that has been there probably 15 or more years. It's leaking, it requires maintenance and I'm thinking of just getting a plumber to remove it. Just seems like it's probably not worth the trouble to fix it. What do you think?

I'm getting a property manager as well.

Also, if anybody could point me in the direction of a pre-rental checklist, I would appreciate it.

Colleen F. · Answer

@Bill Brandt  we added a water softener in phoenix and I was surprized when the plumber wanted to put it outside.   I have seen them outside but I said no it goes in the house.   I have them for my personal use as I can't tolerate some hard water but not in rentals.

Account Closed · Answer

@Doug Davis my opinion would be to remove it. If you rent the home with the water softener at move-in a Tenant will expect it to work.

Removing and looping an older water softener inside a garage costs under $100 so well worth the minimal expense. I've never removed a water softener from outside though and it seems a mower could easily clip a loop if the weeds/grass get too high (based on your pic).

In Las Vegas I've also experienced membranes of older water softeners breaking which pushed tiny yellow resin beads through the plumbing causing interior plumbing issues. The resin beads clogged shower heads, faucets, etc...a hot mess.

Doug Davis · Answer

Thanks.  Just now replying to this... But, that's basically what I ended up doing.  Most people here do not have a water softener and it was beyond repair.  More trouble than it was worth.

Michael Robbins · Answer

@Doug Davis I would have a licensed plumber confirm you do not need the water softener and remove/cap it off.

Brian Walters · Answer

I've never found a softener outside but would think this would be a good investment as the owner as well.  It helps your appliances and general plumbing.  If the expense isn't too much to move it indoors it could be worth it.

However, if you do have one I think you would want it to be clear in the lease who is responsible for the upkeep.  The expense is minimal but don't want a tenant not knowing it's their responsibility and never adding salt or maintaining it in any way.

Bill B. · Answer

Never seen one outside. I BELIEVE the media is only good for 6-10 years, yours probably isn’t softening. Check with your neighbors, do they have one? The water is rock hard in vegas but less than 25% of the houses have them.

Doug Davis · Answer

hmmm.. I'll look into it.  The water is hard in Tallahassee.  I didn't know too many people with a water softener when I lived there though.  Thanks.

Nathan Gesner · Answer

I agree with Colleen. You need to determine if it's necessary. A water softener can save your appliances if the water is too hard.

Colleen F. · Answer

@Doug Davis  before you eliminate it, how hard is the water and is it normal in the area to have a water softener?

Pre-rental you have to check all your main systems. Heat, AC, water, electric. plumbing.

Removing water softener?

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