Re: Water softener
I'm another water softener fan.
Our water is so chalky I never felt the house was clean - all stainless steel or tiled surfaces needed a constant wipe down with Viakal (or vinegar!) or they looked scummy. Imagine what that does to the CH or washing machine/dishwasher.
It is an expensive item to install but I think you get continuing small economies. For instance I use only half the recommended quantities of washing liquid and dishwasher powder (have to buy 'non tablet/capsule' varieties, to be able to reduce the dose) and a bottle of shampoo lasts for absolutely ages.
A word of warning - the bath/shower is very slippery with soft water!