Water Softeners & Filtration in Austin, TX

Austin's municipal water supply averages 184 PPM total hardness (10.75 grains per gallon), classified as "very hard" by the USGS. That hardness is calcium and magnesium that builds up inside your pipes, water heater, dishwasher, and every fixture in your home. Over time, it reduces appliance efficiency, clogs aerators, leaves white scale on surfaces, and shortens the life of your water heater. ABM Plumbing Company installs water softeners and filtration systems that solve these problems at the source.

Call (512) 620-8200 to schedule a water quality consultation.

Austin's Hard Water Problem

If you've lived in Austin for any length of time, you've seen the evidence: white buildup on faucets and shower heads, spots on dishes and glassware, dry skin and hair after showering, and laundry that feels stiff. These are all symptoms of hard water mineral deposits.

The effects go beyond aesthetics. Hard water scale accumulates inside your water heater tank, forming an insulating layer between the heating element and the water. This forces the heater to work harder, increases energy consumption, and accelerates tank failure. Our Austin hard water survival guide covers the full scope of how hard water affects your home and what to do about it.

Water Softener Installation

A water softener removes calcium and magnesium through ion exchange, replacing hard minerals with sodium or potassium ions. The result is softer water that protects your pipes, extends appliance life, reduces soap usage, and eliminates scale buildup. We install whole-house water softeners sized to your home's water demand and hardness level.

Not sure if you need one? Our guide on signs you may need a water softener helps you evaluate your situation. For Austin-specific pricing on installation, see our water softener cost guide.

Hard Water Effects on Plumbing

Beyond cosmetic annoyance, hard water causes real plumbing damage over time. Scale narrows pipe diameter, reducing water pressure. Mineral deposits clog valves and aerators. Water heater efficiency drops as sediment builds up on the tank bottom and heating elements. In severe cases, scale buildup in older galvanized steel pipes can reduce flow to a trickle. Our hard water problems and solutions guide details the specific risks and remedies.

Water Filtration Systems

Water softeners address hardness, but they don't remove other contaminants like chlorine, chloramines, sediment, or dissolved solids. If you want to improve the taste, odor, and overall quality of your water, a filtration system is the solution.

We install two main types: whole-house filtration systems that treat all water entering your home, and point-of-use systems (under-sink or countertop) that filter water at a specific tap. Each has trade-offs in cost, maintenance, and capability. Our whole-house vs. point-of-use filtration comparison helps you decide which approach fits your needs.

Chlorine and Chloramine Removal

Austin Water uses chloramines (chlorine combined with ammonia) as a disinfectant. While safe at municipal levels, some homeowners prefer to remove it for taste, odor, or skin sensitivity reasons. Standard carbon filters remove free chlorine effectively, but chloramines require catalytic carbon or specialized media. Our guide on removing chlorine from drinking water explains the differences and which filter types actually work.

Understanding Your Water Quality Report

Austin Water publishes an annual water quality report (Consumer Confidence Report) with test results for dozens of contaminants. Knowing how to read it helps you make informed decisions about what filtration you actually need versus what you're being sold. Our water quality report guide breaks down the key metrics and what they mean for your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is Austin's water?

Austin's water averages 184 PPM (10.75 grains per gallon), classified as "very hard" by the USGS. This is hard enough to cause noticeable scale buildup and reduce appliance lifespan.

Do water softeners waste water?

Traditional salt-based softeners use water during the regeneration cycle, typically 30 to 60 gallons per cycle. High-efficiency models use less. The water savings from reduced scale damage and improved appliance efficiency generally offset this usage.

Should I get a water softener or a water filter?

They solve different problems. A softener removes hardness minerals (calcium, magnesium). A filter removes contaminants, chlorine, and sediment. Many Austin homeowners benefit from both, installed in sequence.

Schedule a Water Quality Consultation

We'll assess your water quality, recommend the right system for your home, and provide upfront installation pricing. Texas RMP License #16739, held by Travis K Davis.

Call (512) 620-8200 or request service online.