How to Relocate a Water Softener

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Things You'll Need

  • Pipe cutter or hacksaw

  • 1-1/2-inch pipe (PVC or copper)

  • 1-1/2-inch T-fitting (PVC or copper)

  • Soldering torch

  • PVC glue

A water softener removes mineral content from water. The softener is commonly installed near the source of water and before the water supply moves to the water heater and the water lines leading to the fixtures around the home. Basement remodeling or other projects may require the relocation of the water softener. This project falls within the abilities of do-it-yourselfers with adequate plumbing skills and tools.

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Step 1

Disconnect the input pipe from the water softener. This pipe commonly comes directly from the water meter or home pressure system. Shut down the water system, and cut the pipe with a pipe cutter or hacksaw.

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Step 2

Disconnect the output pipe from the water softener. This pipe commonly has a junction near the softener with one pipe leading to the water heater and the other feeding into the cold water system that distributes water around the home.

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Step 3

Move the water softener to the new location. (The move may also involve the water heater, depending on the project.)

Step 4

Connect a pipe to the water input valve of the water softener. Connect the other end of this pipe to the water input pipe at the previous water softener site or to the water meter or pressure tank -- whichever is more convenient .

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Step 5

Connect a 1-foot length of 1-1/2-inch PVC or copper pipe to the output valve of the water softener. Place a T-fitting of the same size and material on this pipe. Connect one output of the T-fitting to the pipe leading to the hot water heater, and connect the other side of the T-fitting to the piping that distributes cold water around the home.

Tip

Use a pipe cutter to cut copper pipe.

Use a soldering torch to make connections between copper pipes.

Cut PVC pipe with a hacksaw, and connect pipes and fittings using PVC glue. Trial fit all connections before permanently connecting the pipes and fittings.

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