Water softeners are essential in hard water areas, helping to protect boilers, extend the life of appliances, and reduce limescale build-up. When looking into installing one, many homeowners wonder what exactly comes in a standard water softener installation kit—and more importantly, whether it includes everything needed for a proper and safe installation in UK homes.
The short answer is: Not always.
Let’s explore what’s typically included in a water softener installation kit, what might be missing for UK-specific plumbing systems, and why Citywide Plumbers remains your most reliable choice for safe, compliant, and efficient water softener installations.
What’s Usually Included in a Kit?
Most basic water softener installation kits are marketed to provide “everything you need to install a water softener.” While this may be true in general terms, these kits often cater to global markets and aren’t tailored specifically for UK plumbing systems. However, most kits commonly include:
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Flexible inlet and outlet hoses
These hoses are used to connect the softener to your main water line and to carry softened water out to your home.
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Bypass valve assembly
A vital part that allows you to divert water around the softener when needed—for example, during maintenance.
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Hose clips and washers
Used to ensure leak-proof connections between hoses and valves.
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Drain tubing
This connects to the water softener to carry wastewater from the regeneration process to an appropriate drain point.
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Power supply (for electric models)
Some softeners need to be connected to a power socket to operate digital controls or regeneration timers.
While this may sound comprehensive, it’s often not enough for a complete, regulation-compliant UK installation.
What’s Often Missing for UK Homes?
UK plumbing regulations and system designs differ significantly from those in other countries. Most off-the-shelf kits do not include:
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Isolation valves compliant with British Standards
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Non-return or check valves for backflow protection
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Copper or plastic pipe adaptors to match UK sizes
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Hard water tap diversion setup for kitchen sinks
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High-pressure rated fittings and flow restrictors
Without these essential additions, a water softener installation could be inefficient, leak-prone, or even illegal under Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999.
Citywide Plumbers: Beyond the Basic Kit
When you choose Citywide Plumbers, we go beyond the box. Our professional service includes:
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Full on-site assessment of your water pressure, pipework, and space
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Supply of all additional parts needed to comply with UK regulations
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Proper diversion of hard water for drinking taps, if desired
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Installation of correct drainage, overflow, and isolation systems
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Testing, calibration, and demonstration of your unit upon completion
We don’t just fit your softener—we ensure it works flawlessly and safely in your home from day one.
Tailored Installations, Guaranteed Quality
Every home is different. Some properties may have older pipework or limited space, others may require high-capacity units for larger families. That's why Citywide Plumbers never rely solely on generic kits.
Our engineers carry a range of fittings and adaptors to match your home’s specific setup. We use only WRAS-approved parts, ensuring full compatibility with UK plumbing standards.
Long-Term Peace of Mind
Unlike DIY installations using incomplete kits, a professionally installed system by Citywide Plumbers includes:
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Clean, efficient pipe routing
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Zero water contamination risk
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No guesswork or uncertainty
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Guaranteed compliance and insurance safety
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Friendly follow-up service and maintenance options
Ready to install your water softener properly? Call Citywide Plumbers on 02038928545 or email info@citywideplumbers.co.uk to book your expert installation.