If you need to buy a Water Softener in Florida (and if you live in Florida you probably need one), it can be pretty overwhelming. There are so many different brands and models to choose from. Is there really that big a difference? What about all the companies? How do you decide what kind of softener you really need and who to install it?

The truth is, there are really just a few things that make a difference when deciding on a solution to a hard water problem. First, you need to pick a company you can trust to help you make the right choice and to install the water softener. Then, you need to know just a little about the choices available in the equipment.

The first one is probably the hardest. The Florida water softener market, has a wide variety of players. Some companies sell water softeners like time shares, using professional sales people, slick advertising and hard sell tactics. Other companies or individuals, offer "bargain" softeners made up of parts from various sources that may even have been put together in someone's garage.

So how do you get a good quality solution to your hard water problem without getting ripped off? The key is finding a company you can trust and rely on. Here are a few things to look for:

Make sure they are a Licensed Plumbing Contractor. Water softeners are installed in the water system for your home. A mistake in the installation could cost you thousands if there is a problem! There is even a health risk if the work is not done according to the Plumbing Code.
Make sure they will be around tomorrow if you have a problem. The majority of small businesses fail in the first three years. This number is even worse in a tough economic times. Make sure you choose a company with a long track record.
Pick a company that offers name brand equipment. If possible, find one that uses equipment from a single source manufacturer. This means that all the components for the water softener are made by the manufacturer itself. This can be really helpful if you ever need parts or service.

Once you have narrowed the field concerning which company to work with, you just need to decide what type of water softener you want. Here are the main factors to consider:

Cabinet vs. 2 Tank System

This really just depends on how much space you can, or want to, allocate to a water softener. Both styles have two tanks, the Cabinet model just contains everything in one unit so it takes up a little less room. Otherwise they both do exactly the same thing, get rid of hard water.

What Kind of Controller

The controller is what keeps the water softener making soft water. It regulates the different cycles needed to allow the water softener to clean itself and flush the hard water minerals out when it becomes saturated. There are really two basic types of controllers used in the Tampa water softener market, timer types and automatic ones. Generally, automatic controllers offer better efficiency in both salt and water usage. The best ones even learn your water usage for maximum efficiency.

What Brand

Just like the company you choose to work with, make sure the brand equipment you choose is reputable. Look for a manufacturer that has stood the test of time and who will be there if you need them down the road.

These are really the main things you need to consider when planning to install a water softener in Tampa. The most important is choosing a good company to work with. Once that is done, they can help you choose the right equipment. So don't stress out about hard water problems. The solution is not nearly as complicated as some people will try to make it.

Article By B. Stevens