I bought my set of taps in May 2010, and have twice had to replace the guts inside to stop leaks. As can be seen in this picture it is leaking again and also I too have a water softener but it still discolours the inside of the faucet and white spots are also on the faucet and handles, no matter how many times I clean it. I will try the vinegar water solution to clean up, but I doubt that will work. I just don't want to replace cartridges or whatever it is every year. Do all manufacturers use plastic for the guts?