Coming from Hawaii, I didn't really care about hard water or soft water, but when I moved here I was able to feel the difference. Thanks to Eric the guy who sold me the 7 stage system. It's better when you recommend someone to get the additional benefits with H2o to go. So far the technician who changed my filter was helpful, taught me how to do it on my own so I didn't have to pay the next time. The reason why I have 4 stars is because when the guy initially installed the softener he didn't have screws and needed to use my own. But other than that it's doing it's job and that's all that matters.