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The average life of a water softener is usually quoted as 10 to 15 years, but that number hides the real story: the resin fails first, while the valve and tanks often keep going. This guide breaks down what wears out and when, how chlorine, iron, and hard water age a unit, how to find out how old a softener you inherited is, and how to choose between rebedding, repairing, and replacing.