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Last month we shared how water softeners work and how they can negatively impact your septic system by overloading your system. Today we’re sharing another way septic systems are negatively impacted as well as a way to avoid these issues for your septic system.

 

The Effects of Salt on Your Septic Tank

Flushing excessive water into your septic tank has the potential to overwhelm the system, but saltwater, in particular, poses two significant threats to your septic system. First, salt water is significantly heavier than the freshwater you typically flush into the septic tank. Because of this, the saltwater from the softener rapidly sinks to the bottom of your septic tank, sometimes lifting the sludge and allowing it to become suspended in the effluent within your tank. In fact, septic tanks that receive softener brine often have no distinct layers of sludge, scum, and effluent. Septic tanks are designed to allow solids to sink to the bottom so that clear effluent can flow out to the drain field. The high concentration of salt brine from the water softener interferes with this process, which can ultimately allow solids to flow out to the drain field and cause failure by clogging the pipes.

 

Second, salt is a naturally corrosive element. Just as it contributes to erosion and spalling in concrete roadways, driveways, or sidewalks, the salt in the regeneration brine can also corrode your concrete septic tank. This can significantly shorten the life of your septic tank.

 

Septic-Safe Use of Water Softeners

Because most homes with septic systems also rely on private water wells to supply water to the household, we understand the need to remove minerals from the home’s water supply. We recommend having your water softener installed to discharge outside of your home’s plumbing that leads to the septic tank. This can include a storm drain or a downspout, either will direct the softener brine away from your septic system. This allows you to enjoy the benefits of softened water while completely avoiding the negative impact the water softener will have on your septic system.

 

If your water softener currently discharges to your septic system, it is important you let your septic provider know and that you take steps to redirect the softener brine as soon as possible.

 

Trust Got-A-Go with Your Septic Servicing Needs! We have been in the Sanitation Industry for over 20 years. We offer routine and emergency service on all types and models of septic systems, no matter the age or complexity. Call us today at 859-282-7700 to schedule your septic service visit! Got-A-Go, Northern Kentucky Septic Pumping and Portable Toilet Rentals.

 

Original Content Source: https://supeckseptic.com/blog/water-softeners/