Signs you need a new water softener We highlight the 3 different telltale signs you need a new water softener for your home. It’s easy to forget about your water softener and get stuck in the bi-monthly regiment of filling it with more salt without wondering how old or how long the system will last. Water softeners start to decline and become less effective after 10 years. Here are 3 signs that you need a new water softener. Sign No. 1: Dirty Dishes and Itchy Skin Your dishes are spotty after you clean them, your skin is itchy and soap scum is collecting quicker than usual in sinks. These are all signs that you have hard water. And if you have hard water, your water softener isn’t working as it should. The problem is your system isn’t regenerating softer water like it used to because it’s old and worn down over years of reliable use. Sign No. 2: Your Water Softener Is Old You have a timer-based water softener. These systems regenerate on a schedule you set over a decade ago. Newer systems regenerate soft water based on when you need it — this is called “demand initiated” regeneration. This is ideal because it works on an “as needed” basis. Sign No. 3: Your System Is Bulky Your system is bulky and taking up too much space. If you have a twin tank system, your softener is taking up too much room. A single cabinet-system is Demand Initiated and takes up less space, making it an efficient option for your home. Newer systems also include low salt indicators, enhanced iron removal and water use monitoring, making maintenance and management a breeze. If these signs are apparent for your water softener and you want to test your water, use a simple test tool so you can find your hard water number. If you know your number and want a new system, you can browse a selection of water softeners by going to EcoWater.