Water softener installation and servicing

Homeowners with scale problems, owners of bore water properties, cafes, salons, motels and other small businesses that rely on hot water and appliances.

A margin on each unit sold, an installation fee, then ongoing income from yearly service plans, salt and filter supply, and repairs.

• Plumbing or the ability to partner closely with a licensed plumber
• Explaining water quality simply to customers
• Reliable follow-up and record keeping

• Plumbing work usually needs a licensed plumber, so check your state or territory licensing rules before installing anything
• Check that products are WaterMark certified where they connect to the mains
• Public liability insurance, plus workers compensation once you hire
• Be careful with health or water quality claims and check Australian Consumer Law obligations
• Check local rules on discharging softener wastewater, especially in areas with septic systems

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on the units and parts you hold, your tools and vehicle, and insurance. Your costs will also depend on whether you partner with a licensed plumber.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on how many installs and servicing customers you build up. Revenue isn't profit, since units, parts and travel cost money. The estimate assumes at least about 20 hours a week.

Plumbing work usually needs a licensed plumber, so check your state or territory licensing rules first. Also check products are WaterMark certified where they connect to the mains, and local rules on discharging softener wastewater, especially with septic systems.