New FF advice please

Hello All.
REALLY useful forum!

I am buying a new Side by Side but have a few issues.

The first this forum had already solved. (THANKS). Admiral as opposed to Samsung or LG. GC2225GEKW/B/S (from the Maytag UK site). (SS doors only, black or white body) When I look at the posts here, most of the model numbers refer to 2224s not 5s. Is there a difference? Strangely Pricerunner lists 2224s only. Confused by the model numbers between Maytag & Admiral! Is this the same as a SAD224GB?

The ONLY PRACTICAL water supply is via a water softener (NW London). I know there are various health issues, salt etc. I would use a filter for salt, lead (solder, not pipes) copper etc. There are no babies for formula mixing in the house (The sink tap is unsoftened, but too remote). Is the admiral ‘built in’ filter suitable? Am also seeking views on using a softened water supply.

The Admiral is a tad taller though. That part of my kitchen is height restricted by the boxing in from the half landing from my stairs. 1760mm. The fridge is 1740mm + the hinges = 1778
I know I will have to do a bit of channeling to get the hinges under the overhang, but are the hinge covers removable / trimable to reduce the height say 5/10mm?

How much of a problem is it if there isn’t the full 140mm along side (freezer door only), for more than 90º opening to facilitate draw / shelf removal?

Thanks in advance
Ralph