[villagetinker]

Also, do a search on, hard water, filters, etc, as there have been several threads on this subject.
Personally, we installed a Sears water softener and a Sears whole house filter (these are now available as a combination unit). We have great tasting water. It is soft, which my wife loves, and the crystal that we wash in the dishwasher sparkles like the crystal that has never been used.
Whatever you do be very cautious of the water system sales people. I did a lot of research, after being quoted $3000 to $6000 for a system. Ours cost less then $1500, but I had it professionally installed, you will be well under $1000 if you can do the installation yourself.
Hope this helps.