716 Water Softener & Filtration Cost for Buffalo & WNY Homes
Short answer
These are typical national ranges, since local companies rarely publish prices. HomeGuide reports a water softener costs $1,200 to $3,800 with installation, a whole-house filtration system $850 to $5,400, a well water filtration system $800 to $4,000 installed, and water testing $100 to $300. Several WNY companies offer free in-home water tests.
Published cost ranges
| Item | Range | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Salt-based water softener, installed (national) | $1,200 to $3,800 | HomeGuide |
| Salt-free system (national) | $1,500 to $4,500 | HomeGuide |
| Whole-house filtration system (national) | $850 to $5,400 | HomeGuide |
| Under-sink filter installation (national) | $170 to $580 | HomeGuide |
| Well water filtration system, installed (national) | $800 to $4,000 | HomeGuide |
| Water testing (national) | $100 to $300 | HomeGuide |
| Whole-house filter upkeep per year (national) | $15 to $250 | HomeGuide |
These are third-party published estimates retrieved October 2026, not quotes from 716 Basement. Your price depends on your house.
What drives the price
- What your water test shows (hardness, iron, sulfur, bacteria)
- City water vs. private well
- Number of treatment stages (sediment, carbon, softener, UV, RO)
- Household size and flow rate
- Plumbing and drain access at the main line in the basement
- Ongoing salt, filters and service plans
Frequently asked questions
Should I test before buying?
Yes. Equipment should match measured problems. A certified lab test gives independent results.
Are there ongoing costs?
Yes: softener salt, filter cartridges, UV bulbs and periodic service. Ask each company for annual operating costs in writing.
Sources
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