Most modern softeners have a digital panel with buttons that look intimidating. They’re not. Set the hardness level based on your water test. If you didn’t test, guess “moderate” and adjust later. It’s not brain surgery; it’s just math.
Set the regeneration time for 2 AM. That way, your softener cleans itself while you’re dreaming of fluffy towels. You’ll wake up to water that feels like a cloud.