Ep 4. Water Softener Technician

Dirty Jobs is a television series that follows host Mike Rowe as he explores and participates in the most challenging and unpleasant jobs across America. In season 7 episode 4, Mike meets up with a water softener technician responsible for servicing and maintaining water softening systems in homes and businesses throughout Wisconsin.

Mike begins his day accompanying the technician as he drives from job site to job site. The technician explains that hard water is a common problem in the area and that it can cause calcium buildup in pipes and water-using appliances, leading to expensive repairs and replacements. The technician’s job is to install and service water softening systems that remove the excess calcium and other minerals from the water.

At the first job site of the day, the technician and Mike enter a customer’s home to inspect and service their water softener system. The technician begins by running tests on the water coming from the tap and the water softener. Mike observes as the technician explains how the system works and discusses different types of water softening systems and their pros and cons. The technician then begins disassembling and cleaning the water softener, explaining each step to Mike along the way. Mike lends a hand, helping to carry parts and tools as needed.

Next, the team travels to a restaurant to inspect and service their commercial water softener system. Mike and the technician enter the cramped basement, where the water softener is located. The technician explains how the system works and begins disassembling and cleaning it. Mike once again lends a hand while trying to avoid getting splashed with water or covered in grease. As they work, the technician talks about the challenges of servicing commercial systems, such as the increased flow rate and the need for specialized tools.

After a long day on the job, Mike and the technician return to the service center to take care of administrative tasks such as filling out paperwork and ordering parts. Mike talks to the technician about the ups and downs of being a water softener technician and reflects on the importance of having access to clean, soft water.

Overall, season 7 episode 4 of Dirty Jobs offers a glimpse into the world of water softener technicians and the challenges they face on a daily basis. Through Mike’s engaging narration and the technician’s practical explanations, viewers gain an appreciation for the importance of clean water and the hard work required to ensure it is available to everyone.