<human>: What's an argument for and against the use of a water softener?
<bot>: 
1. Argument for using a water softener: 
 • Improves taste, smell, and appearance of drinking water 
 • Reduces chlorine, rust, and other tastes in tap water 
 • Increases efficiency of water heater 
 • Saves money on bottled water consumption 2 Argument against using a water softener: 
 • Can increase levels of lead and copper in water 
 • Requires regular maintenance to replace resin cartridges 
 • Expensive upfront cost 3 Ultimately it depends on your personal preference as to whether you want to use one or not.