Water softeners are used in many homes to treat water, improving the taste and making it easier to use for household chores. However, if your home uses a septic system to collect waste, you should know that your water softener may affect how your system operates. Here’s what you should know about potential issues with water softeners to ensure proper use. 

What Homeowners Should Know About Water Softeners & Septic Systems

What Water Softeners Do 

Hard water isn’t actually harmful to consume, but some people don’t like the taste. It also reacts poorly with soap, decreasing the presence of suds and making it harder to do dishes and laundry. With a softening appliance, water travels through a treatment tank before making it to your plumbing fixtures, removing excess minerals like calcium and magnesium with the use of sodium. 

How They Impact Septic Systems

Water softeners produce brine, or salty water. Some have argued that the high salt content may negatively impact the bacterial balance inside septic tanks that breaks down waste efficiently. However, research on this subject has not been conclusive.

What is certain, however, is that brine may cause problems in the drain field. The salt content in brine can make clay soil swell, increasing its density. If the ground becomes too compacted, the septic system can’t distribute wastewater effectively. If this is a problem, you may notice backups or flooding in the drain field. You should work with your septic service provider to discuss options, but you may be able to mitigate the problem by only using the water softener on hot water, since that’s mainly what’s used for cleaning.

If you’re looking for a septic service in Rochester, NY, look no further than Tri County Systems. Serving Monroe, Wayne, and Ontario counties, the company is dedicated to providing prompt and efficient service to every customer, whether they need septic tank system design and installation or routine maintenance. The technicians keep customers informed about their options and the needs of their particular septic systems. They also work hard to keep prices accessible and fair. Contact the team online or call (585) 467-2550 to request service today.