To remove your automatic water softener, also known as self-regenerating water softeners, from a home less than 15 years old, follow the five steps below:

1. Step 1 - At your local hardware store, buy a 16-inch, flexible copper pipe (equipped with fittings compatible with existing house) and pipe dope (sealant) for about $10. High-quality hose can be used in lieu of a copper pipe. Clerks at the store can advise you.
2. Step 2 - Turn off your water. Water valves are located on the outside of homes near the meter box and will be either a side-ways or wheel handle. Check to see that your water is off by turning on your garden hose or faucet. Then turn off your hose or faucet.
3. Step 3 - Unplug the automatic water softener from the electrical source. Using a wrench, unscrew the water pipes connecting the automatic water softener to the water source (which will be attached to the house). Then pull the unit from the wall.
4. Step 4 - After placing pipe dope on each end of the flexible copper pipe or high-quality hose, attach it to the ends of the pipe connected to the wall. Using a wrench, tighten the copper pipe.
5. Step 5: - Turn your water back on. If a leak occurs at the copper pipe connections to the water source, repeat steps two through five and use more pipe dope.

If you have concerns on how to remove your automatic water softener, please contact your local plumber.

Residents that own their automatic water softener are eligible for the Automatic Water Softener Rebate Program. As part of the program, a list of licensed plumbers will be provided to remove the automatic water softener at no cost to the applicant. After your rebate application form is approved, the Sanitation District will mail you a list of plumbers that are authorized to dispose of the unit. Visit the Automatic Water Softener Rebate Program for more information and to get a rebate application form.

Information on qualified alternative units that are not subject to the ordinance prohibiting the installation of automatic water softeners in the Santa Clarita Valley can be obtained by visiting Salt Free Water Conditioning Alternatives. Santa Clarita Valley residents are encouraged to submit comments on water conditioning systems that are alternatives to automatic water softeners at Rate Water Softener Products.

Most alternative unit installers will also remove your automatic water softener if you purchase or rent a unit from them.