I'm unboxing and setting up my Lelit Bianca to pull my first-ever espresso shot. With it came a water softening filter to "purify water from calcium and magnesium salts that create limescale and compromise the espresso taste."

I plan on using either third wave water or similar DIY recipe with the Bianca. Should I not install the included filter? I imagine it will alter the ratios of what was already supposed to be "ideal" coffee brewing water.

Thank you!

I'm with Scott., If you're making water by adding minerals to pure water you don't want that softener. If you are using a recipe like R Pavlis that has no calcium or magnesium it would have no effect and be a waste of money. If you are using a recipe that contains magnesium or calcium in order to improve extraction, it would work against you by exchanging that purposely added calcium and/or magnesium with sodium ions.