Can You Use a Water Softener with a Septic System?

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In most cases, those using a septic system for their home are also using a private well for their water supply. Depending on the water in the area, a water softener may be needed for improved quality. There is conflicting information on how these two systems work together. While you can use a water softener with a septic system, there are a few factors you should consider.

Salt and Septic Tanks

Water softeners use salt in their systems that can enter the septic system in the backwash water. This happens during the regeneration process that can happen on a timed or use schedule. Older water softeners may use more salt which can affect the balance in a septic tank. However, newer systems use less salt and the amount released in backwash is minor, making most system safe for the septic.

Water Generation

Another concern with water softeners when using a septic system is the amount of water displaced during regeneration. This can be up to 150 gallons a day, depending on the water softener settings. This can be a large amount of water entering the septic tank at one time, equal to the amount of water used during an entire day by three adults. This can force waste water from the tank into the drain field that is not fully treated, causing issues in your septic system balance.

Septic systems and water softeners can work harmoniously together, but there are some adjustments that should be made. Using a newer model water softener with more efficient functions is one option. To find out the best way to use the two systems together to protect your septic, talk to your local septic service company. They can offer solutions to ensure that you can have the quality water you prefer without harming your septic.

Posted on behalf of:
Metro Septic LLC
1210 N Tennessee St
Cartersville, GA 30120
(678) 873-7934

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