A lot of liquids in your home eventually end up in your septic system. However, we don’t often think about what may be lurking in the liquids we pour down the drain. The truth is, even your water could be affecting your septic tank. Read on to learn more.
The Minerals in Water
Hard water has high amounts of magnesium and calcium. Because groundwaters usually contain lots of dissolved minerals, it is considered hard water. Most homeowners don’t want to use hard water because of the annoying problems it can cause. For this reason, most people with hard water in their homes opt to install a water softener. Water softeners remove magnesium and calcium from the water through a process involving an ion exchange with sodium. The “backwash” created through this process contains high levels of the minerals that were removed.
Water Softeners and Your Septic Tank
The backwash from water softeners will increase the sodium chloride levels in your septic tank. The increased salinity of the tank will mess up the pH levels and could kill the helpful bacteria in your tank. Disrupting the bacteria balance in your septic tank could lead to all sorts of problems.
This doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t have or use a water softener in your home if you have a septic system. It just means you’ll have certain factors to consider while purchasing and installing a water softener in your home. You should always consult with a professional septic system company before installing a water softener.
Ask the Advice of a Professional
You should always consult with a septic professional before getting a household water filtration system or installing a water softener. Your septic company will be able to make recommendations based on your specific needs and your specific system.
For all your septic system needs, give Wind River Environmental a call today!
