"reverse osmosis units can waste quite a bit of water during filtration...something to consider if you're watching your usage closely."
Yeah, good point on RO systems—I looked into them a while back but decided against it for that exact reason. Instead, I installed a sediment filter and carbon block combo. Doesn't completely eliminate hardness, but it noticeably improved taste without the salty after-effect. Plus, no wastewater to deal with. Definitely worth considering if you're looking for a middle-ground solution.
I've been thinking about a similar setup, actually. Did you notice any drop in water pressure after installing the sediment and carbon filters? I'm dealing with borderline pressure issues already, so that's my main worry...
"Did you notice any drop in water pressure after installing the sediment and carbon filters?"
I did experience a slight drop initially, especially noticeable in the upstairs shower. Installing a booster pump afterward solved it completely. If your pressure's already borderline, you might want to factor that into your plans...
I installed similar filters about six months ago and yeah, the pressure dipped a bit at first. But honestly, after a couple weeks, I barely noticed it anymore. Maybe I just got used to it? Anyway, I'm curious about the booster pump—was it tricky to install yourself, or did you need a plumber? I'm pretty handy, but plumbing always makes me a bit nervous...
Installed a booster pump myself last year—wasn't rocket science, but definitely had some frustrating moments. Instructions seemed straightforward until I realized my existing pipes weren't exactly standard size (typical...). Ended up making two extra trips to the hardware store. If plumbing makes you nervous, might be worth getting a plumber just for peace of mind. But if you're patient and ready for surprises, it's doable. Pressure improved noticeably, though I'm still skeptical if it was worth the hassle.
