Softening Systems

Softening Systems | Water Purification | Plumbing | Collegedale

Imagine turning on the tap in your Collegedale home and tasting crisp, refreshing water that’s free of the metallic tang, odors, and scale-causing minerals common to our region. That’s the everyday reality HEP’s Softening Systems Plumbing delivers. From the first complimentary water test to the final system tune-up, our licensed technicians handle everything with small-town courtesy and big-city expertise—so your ice cubes stay clear, your appliances last longer, and your skin feels noticeably softer.

Whether you’re interested in a whole-home softener, a reverse-osmosis kitchen unit, or a bacteria-killing UV upgrade, our customizable solutions bring state-of-the-art water purification right to your sink. We source dependable, American-made components, back every installation with a satisfaction guarantee, and remain on call 24/7 for maintenance or emergency service. Better water, better living—that’s the HEP promise.

FAQs

Why do Collegedale homeowners need a water-softening system?

Municipal reports show Collegedale’s water averages 8–10 grains per gallon (gpg) of hardness, which is classified as moderately hard. That mineral content (mainly calcium and magnesium) causes scale on plumbing fixtures, reduces water-heater efficiency, and leaves spots on dishes and glass. A water softener exchanges those hardness minerals for sodium or potassium ions, preventing scale and protecting appliances, pipes, and clothing while improving soap efficiency.

What is the difference between water softening and water purification, and should I install both?

A softener removes hardness minerals through ion exchange but does not address contaminants such as chlorine, chloramines, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), lead, or microbial pathogens. Purification systems—such as activated-carbon filtration, reverse osmosis (RO), or UV disinfection—target those impurities. Softening improves water feel and appliance longevity, while purification improves taste and health safety. In Collegedale, many residents pair a whole-house softener with a point-of-use RO system at the kitchen sink for drinking and cooking water. We can integrate both units into a single, space-saving treatment train.

How do I know what size softener or purifier my home needs?

Sizing depends on three factors: (1) household water hardness (measured in gpg), (2) daily water consumption, and (3) desired regeneration frequency. We start by testing your water on-site or reviewing the latest Ocoee Utility District data. Then we multiply hardness by daily gallons used (roughly 75 gal per person) to determine total grains to be removed. For example, a family of four at 9 gpg uses about 2,700 grains per day; a 32,000-grain softener set to regenerate every 7–8 days would be ideal. Purification systems are sized by flow rate (gallons per minute) and contaminant reduction requirements. Our technicians perform a no-cost assessment to recommend the correct configuration.

What does the installation process involve and how long does it take?

Most residential installations take 3–5 hours. We locate the main water entry point—usually in the garage or utility closet—shut off the supply, and plumb a bypass loop so you can isolate the system for service. The softener tank and brine tank are leveled on a drain pan; drain and overflow lines are connected to a nearby floor drain or utility sink per Collegedale plumbing code. If you add RO, we drill a discrete faucet hole at the sink and run ¼-inch tubing. After pressurizing the lines, we program regeneration settings based on your hardness test, flush the media, and perform a final leak check. You’ll receive a walkthrough and owner’s manual before we leave.

How much maintenance is required after installation?

Water softeners are low-maintenance: keep the brine tank at least one-third full of pellet salt or potassium chloride, clean the tank once a year, and replace the resin bed every 10–15 years if iron is low. Our annual service visit includes hardness retesting, valve inspection, and software updates. For RO systems, replace pre-filters every 6–12 months, the membrane every 2–3 years, and sanitize the storage tank annually. We offer affordable service plans that bundle salt delivery, filter changes, and 24/7 emergency support.

What do softening and purification systems cost, and will they save me money?

A professionally installed, metered-demand softener for an average Collegedale home ranges from $1,400 to $2,200, while a point-of-use RO unit runs $475–$650. Many customers recoup costs within 3–5 years thanks to: 30–50 % less soap and detergent use, a 10–15 % reduction in water-heater energy due to scale-free elements, longer appliance lifespans, and fewer plumbing repairs. Financing and lease-to-own plans start at $29 per month, and our systems carry a 10-year tank and valve warranty plus a 90-day satisfaction guarantee.