How to Use a Water Softener in Your Shower

If the water that comes through your pipes is "hard", meaning that it contains chlorine, iron and other minerals, you should consider a water softener, specifically a shower water softener as that is where you come into contact with the most water.

A water softener uses neutralizing ions in sodium to remove the minerals from the water which can sometimes turn hair slightly green, irritate skin and create a crusty buildup on pipes and fixtures. There are two options for installing a shower water softener so choose the one that fits your level of DIY skills. 

Step 1 - Installing a Shower Filter

If you are not sure about installing an entire water softener system and you just want to filter the water that comes out of your shower, you can simply install a filter directly onto the shower head. This is a very simple way to have a shower water softener and even if you are not a seasoned DIY enthusiast, you will more than likely be able to installthese filters. You can also choose to buy entirely new showerheads that contain water filters in them to help get rid of the iron, chlorine and all other harmful materials. 

Step 2 - Turn Off the Water

You must turn off the water first so that you can fit the water softener system onto your water supply. 

Step 3 - Where to Attach the System

If you would like to have soft water throughout your home, look for where the water supply enters the house. If you are only interested in a shower water softener, you can connect the system to your water heater and the benefits will reach your shower. 

Step 4 - How to Hook it Up

On the back of the water softening system there should be very clearly marked ports that say "IN" and "OUT". Make sure you attach the "IN" port to where the water comes into the house. If you accidentally cross the connections then the shower water softener will not be working properly. The system will say that it is on and working but actually your water will not have the benefit of the softener. 

Step 5 - Connect the Drain Line

Your water softener system also comes with a drain line and if you don't hook it up to your home's drain you'll end up with a flood. Find out where your house's drain is and make sure you connect the softener system's drain line to it. 

Step 6 - The Salt Tank

Some, but not all water softener systems have two tanks and one is filled with the sodium water, which is used to neutralize the iron, chlorine and balance the PH of the water. If the system you have chosen for your shower water softener has this second tank then you must make sure you connect it with the first piece of equipment that is sitting on your water heater.