Hello Adrian, My water softener is still fabulous.  There is no scale on any of my taps and soap lathers beautifully,  just like it did when I was a child in the soft water of Manchester.  It needs no maintenance (other than salt every few months) and just sits quietly under the sink.  Thank you also for working so well with my kitchen fitter.  He really didn't think that it would fit under the Butler sink, together with the boiling water tap and plumbing for washing machine and dishwasher and drainage from the bathroom,  but by working together,  you both made it fit and work so efficiently.  I recommend you to anyone considering buying a softener, thank you. Ann - Bradwell-On-sea