Buying a softener is a commitment, like adopting a small, loyal appliance that needs monthly attention. Always measure your well’s flow rate—most homes need 10–15 gallons per minute (GPM). If you pick a softener that’s too small, you’ll run out of soft water mid-shampoo, which is tragic for you and conditioner.
Check the warranty. Cheap online brands often offer 1 year; reliable brands give 5 to 10 years. And please, for the love of all that is not crusty, install a sediment pre-filter before your softener. Well water can carry sand and silt that wrecks your resin beads faster than a toddler with a crayon.
