Does anyone have any experience with the Genesis softeners sold through discountwatersofteners.com? It seems to meet our needs and has an option to add an inline filter.

Thank again!

Here is a link that might be useful: genesis water softener

Always keep your sediment filtration separate from your softener. It should be installed UPSTREAM from the softener. If you have a lot of sediment, a backwashing filter is the way to go. If not, a cartridge filter, like the Big Blue will work nicely. The best install is to place two of them in parallel so that one can be changed without shutting off the water. Go with two 4" diameter by 10" length.

As to softener size:

1. How many people in the home?

2. Well or city water? If city, you need to obtain a copies of several quarterly reports - most likely they are available online. If well water, you need a more complete water test, to include: TDS, pH, hardness, bacteria, iron, manganese, alkalinity, sulfites, nitrates, any other contaminants recommended by your local lab - they will know what to expect in your area.

3. Have you spoken to any local water treatment pros to see what they recommend?