Are water softeners harmful to a septic system?
Properly operating water softeners should not be harmful to a septic system. It should use the required amount of salt (sodium chloride) for recharging and it should not recharge more frequently than needed to supply the conditioned water used by the family. It has been proven that the salt is not toxic to the microorganisms in the septic tank (in fact it is slightly helpful). Sodium can be detrimental to the soil absorption system. It is important that the water softener recharge water discharge into the septic system. The calcium and magnesium removed by the water softener need to be placed back into the waste stream to counter any effect of the sodium. Be careful to check the water softener discharge line for leaks. Encrusted valves can leak large amounts of water in the septic system.
Related Questions
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