Hello,

Has anyone used water "softeners" like the one screwfix sell, part no.
20315 or in conjunction with a sediment filter as part no. 72063

If so, what are your opinions?

I put "softener" in quote because I am not sure whether they actually
soften. I notice screwfix do not mention "softening" and choose the
phrase "scale reduction" instead.

We are in hard water area and getting bored of having to de scale the
kettle! I also wonder what the inside of the washing machine must look
like but perhaps I have been made paranoid by those calgon adverts?

Do these make a big difference; are they worth it; and if so, is it
worth paying more for the one with the sediment filter?

I notice that in the same section screwfix sell "magnetic scale
reducers" and "electronic scale reducers" which I thought were snake
oil? Perhaps you will tell me if I am wrong?