Hi everyone! Just want some insights about water softener and a reverse osmosis (RO) installation. I’m thinking about DIYing a whole-house water softener and RO sys in the kitchen. I’m a pretty handyman myself, in fact, I’ve assembled several IKEA furniture and mounted lots of TVs. Do you guys think this is doable? Can I DIY it?
Whole house water softener installation
- Thread starter Happy Va
- Start date
Same exact task with me last week. I’m also a good DIY guy, mechanically inclined, but no plumbing experience. I just took my time, plan carefully, and watch some highly recommended videos in YouTube. Turned out great for me!
It is true, RO system is basic, but the water softener installation mainly depends on your house’s setup. I remembered that I needed to install some water softener loop, run a drain line across my whole garage, and some sanitary drain. If you already had these steps in your house, then I think it would be a piece of cake for you.
Same goes for me, no plumbing experience and good handyman. It cost me a total of $1,500 and took me 8 hours long. Finished with no leaks! Just take your time and dedication, you’ll have no problem!
Work with PEX when connecting tubes, they’re easy to work with and very straightforward! 
Yes, when it comes to PEX, I did need to sweat some adapters before transitioning. I chose PEX-A and expansion fittings, I remembered borrowing a Mil ProPEX gun from someone, and made the process quick and easy. If you don’t have the tools, or someone with it, just use some good old manual expansion tools, or some crimp clams and crimp fittings.
Now, for my RO system, I just hooked is straight to my refrigerator for water and ice. Keep it hidden behind the corner of an unused section of my kitchen cabinet next to the fridge. Very easy and straightforward, since I already had a water line running into the fridge.
Yes, when it comes to PEX, I did need to sweat some adapters before transitioning. I chose PEX-A and expansion fittings, I remembered borrowing a Mil ProPEX gun from someone, and made the process quick and easy. If you don’t have the tools, or someone with it, just use some good old manual expansion tools, or some crimp clams and crimp fittings.
Now, for my RO system, I just hooked is straight to my refrigerator for water and ice. Keep it hidden behind the corner of an unused section of my kitchen cabinet next to the fridge. Very easy and straightforward, since I already had a water line running into the fridge.