Insight From Our Water Specialists
Learn More about Diefenbach Water Systems’ Services
For those seeking reliable water treatment and pump solutions in Western New York, Diefenbach Water Systems offers a comprehensive range of services to ensure clean and safe water for your home or business.
Our team of experts in Silver Creek, NY, is dedicated to providing top-notch water testing, treatment, conditioning, and water system maintenance services. We understand that you may have some questions and we are committed to delivering those answers. Read our frequently asked questions to learn more about what we do and how we can help you!

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General FAQs
Do you offer free water testing?
Yes, we provide water testing to determine hardness levels, pH balance, and potential contaminants in your water.
What areas do you service?
We service Chautauqua, Erie, and Cattaraugus County
Is well water safer than city water?
Not necessarily—well water left untreated and can contain bacteria, iron, and other impurities. A filtration system ensures safe drinking water.
Can I install a water softener or filtration system myself?
While some systems are DIY-friendly, professional installation ensures proper function, longevity, and warranty protection.
How much does a whole-house water treatment system cost?
Pricing varies based on the system type and home size, but we offer free consultations to recommend the best solution within your budget.
What is a residential water system?
A residential water system includes pumps, pressure tanks, filtration units, and treatment solutions that provide clean and reliable water to your home.
What are the key components of a home water system?
A typical system includes a well pump, pressure tank, filtration or treatment unit, and sometimes a water softener or reverse osmosis system.
How do I know if my home needs a water system upgrade?
Low water pressure, frequent pump cycling, discolored water, or poor water quality are signs that your system may need an upgrade.
Can you install a water system in a home that uses well water?
Yes! We specialize in well water systems, including pumps, pressure tanks, and water treatment solutions to ensure safe and clean water.
What’s the difference between city water and well water systems?
City water comes from a municipal supply and may need filtration, while well water requires pumps, pressure tanks, and treatment for contaminants.
Treatment & Filtration FAQs
What are the signs that I need a water treatment system?
Common signs include hard water stains, unpleasant odors or tastes, sediment in water, dry skin after bathing, and appliance buildup.
What’s the difference between water filtration and water softening?
Water filtration removes contaminants like chlorine, bacteria, and sediment, while water softening specifically reduces minerals like calcium and magnesium that cause hard water.
How often should I replace my water filter?
It depends on the type of filter, but most should be replaced every 3–6 months. Whole-house filters may last longer, while under-sink or pitcher filters require more frequent changes.
Is a water softener safe for drinking water?
Yes, but it adds a small amount of sodium to the water. If you’re on a low-sodium diet, you may want a bypass filter or an alternative system like a salt-free conditioner. You can also install a reverse osmosis unit that would remove the salt from the water.
How do I know which water treatment system is right for my home?
A professional water test will determine the contaminants in your water, allowing for a customized solution based on your specific needs.
Can a water treatment system help with well water?
Yes! Well water often contains high levels of iron, sediment, and bacteria. A filtration and softening system can greatly improve water quality.
Does a reverse osmosis (RO) system waste a lot of water?
RO systems do use water during the filtration process, but modern systems are more efficient, and some include permeate pumps to reduce waste.
Will a water softener make my water taste salty?
No, a properly functioning softener will not make your water taste salty. The amount of sodium added is minimal and typically undetectable.
Do water treatment systems require maintenance?
Yes, regular maintenance is important. This includes replacing filters, adding salt to softeners, and periodic system checks to ensure optimal performance.
Can a water filtration system remove lead and other heavy metals?
Yes, certain filtration systems, such as reverse osmosis and activated carbon filters, are effective at removing lead, mercury, and other heavy metals from drinking water.
What is the difference between water treatment and water conditioning?
Water treatment removes contaminants like bacteria, chlorine, and heavy metals, while water conditioning primarily reduces scale buildup and hard water minerals.
How do I know if my home needs a water treatment system?
Common signs include hard water stains, bad taste or odor, skin irritation, and buildup in pipes or appliances. A professional water test can confirm what system you need.
Can a water treatment system remove chlorine?
Yes, activated carbon filters remove chlorine, while reverse osmosis systems effectively remove other contaminants.
What’s the best water filtration system for my home?
It depends on your water quality. Common options include whole-house carbon filters, reverse osmosis, and UV purification.
How does a reverse osmosis system work?
It forces water through a semipermeable membrane, removing contaminants like lead, fluoride, chlorine, and bacteria.
Do whole-house water filters require maintenance?
Yes, filters should be replaced every 3–6 months to ensure clean water and system efficiency.
How long does it take to install a water treatment system?
Most residential installations take 3-5 hours, depending on system complexity and plumbing setup.
How much maintenance do water treatment systems require?
Regular maintenance includes changing filters, adding salt (for softeners), and occasional system checks, typically every 6–12 months.
Can a filtration system improve water pressure?
If clogged filters or scale buildup are reducing water flow, a properly maintained filtration system can help restore pressure.
Are UV water purifiers effective?
Yes, UV purification eliminates bacteria and viruses without chemicals, making it ideal for well water.
Water Conditioning & Softening FAQs
What is hard water, and why is it a problem?
Hard water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium, leading to scale buildup, dry skin, dull hair, and shorter appliance lifespan.
How does a water softener work?
A water softener replaces hard minerals with sodium or potassium ions through an ion exchange process, preventing scale buildup and improving water quality.
Will a water softener make my water taste salty?
No, the amount of sodium added is minimal and typically undetectable. For an alternative, salt-free water conditioners are available.
How often do I need to add salt to my water softener?
It depends on usage and system size, but typically, salt should be refilled every 4–6 weeks.
Can a water conditioner help with iron or sulfur odors?
Some water conditioners can reduce iron, but for strong odors, an iron filter or aeration system may be needed.
Water Pump FAQs
What are the different types of water pumps?
The most common types include submersible pumps, jet pumps, booster pumps, and sump pumps, each serving different needs.
How do I know which pump is right for my home?
The right pump depends on your water source, household size, water pressure needs, and whether you use a well or city water.
What is the difference between a jet pump and a submersible pump?
Jet pumps sit above ground and pull water up, while submersible pumps are placed inside the well and push water up, making them more efficient for deep wells.
Why is my water pump constantly running?
A continuously running pump may be due to a water leak, a pressure tank issue, or a failing pressure switch.
How often should a water pump be serviced?
Regular maintenance, including pressure checks and cleaning, should be performed annually to ensure efficiency and longevity.
Water Pressure FAQs
Why is my home's water pressure low?
Low pressure may result from clogged pipes, an undersized pump, or issues with the pressure tank or regulator.
Can a booster pump improve my water pressure?
Yes! Booster pumps increase water pressure for homes with weak supply, especially those using municipal water.
What size pressure tank do I need?
The size depends on your water usage and pump capacity. A larger tank reduces pump cycling, extending the pump’s lifespan.
How do I adjust the pressure on my water system?
Adjustments can be made at the pressure switch, but it’s best to have a professional ensure safe settings.
What causes water hammer (banging pipes) in my system?
Water hammer occurs when water flow is suddenly stopped, often due to high pressure or improperly secured pipes. A pressure regulator or check valve can help.
Installation & Maintenance FAQs
How long does it take to install a water pump or pressure system?
Installation typically takes 2–6 hours, depending on the complexity of the system and home plumbing setup.
What is the lifespan of a residential water pump?
A well-maintained pump can last 10–15 years, though submersible pumps often last longer than jet pumps.
Can I install a water pump myself?
Some pumps can be installed DIY, but professional installation ensures proper operation, longevity, and warranty protection.
Do water pumps require electricity to function?
Yes, most pumps require electricity, but backup systems, such as battery or solar-powered pumps, are available for emergencies.
Do you offer emergency repair services for water pumps?
Yes! We provide emergency repairs for pump failures, pressure system issues, and other urgent water system problems.
Contact us at 716-934-3033 to receive a free water analysis or inquire about our services!