I installed the ion exchange/carbon filter system in one afternoon. All the parts for installation were provided except (1) connections from the house water supply to the tanks and (2) a long enough hose between the salt reserve and the main valve (note: a hose was provided, but my installation needed about one foot more than delivered). I used "water heater" flex hoses (with the metal mesh outside) to connect the main valve to the house water supply (purchased at Home Depot). We have great soft water now but, more important, there is NO TASTE to our water and ice. In my opinion, the system was worth every cent. I have been using my system about six months. Yes, I would do it again.
BTW, I did win the Kindle Fire contest for the month I installed my system, but that had NOTHING to do with this review. I only mention it here because the company did what they said they would do -- give the Kindle to one of their DIY users with the most "likes." I did my part; they did theirs.
I should also say the online installation instructions and the written instructions were quite sufficient. I did not need to call their 24/7 hotline for help. The documentation provided answered all my questions.