You’ve probably heard the saying “they go together like oil and water” – meaning that two things really don’t go together at all. They simply don’t mix. So, what’s the story with saltwater and septic systems – do they go together?
How does saltwater get into septic systems?
If you don’t live by the ocean, and you don’t live underwater, you might wonder exactly how saltwater would get into a septic system in the first place. The usual culprit is from a salt-based water softener.
In areas of the country where hard water is common, water softeners are often used in homes and businesses to counteract the negative effects of hard water. The excess minerals, usually calcium and magnesium, are removed from the water via ion exchange through the use of salt. After the treatment of many gallons of water, the system requires regeneration, a process by which salt brine flushes the accumulated minerals out into the septic system.
Can saltwater harm a septic system?
This has been a hotly debated topic over the last several years. Some researchers claim that saltwater has no impact whatsoever on a septic system and its function. Others question whether or not the regeneration process of water softeners interferes with the proper settling of solids in the septic tank. Still, others are concerned about the buildup of salt in soils surrounding leach fields, affecting the permeability of the soil and its ability to drain properly.
The bottom line is that there are research studies whose results support both sides of the story. It is likely that research will continue until there is a more definitive answer to the question of whether or not saltwater is safe for septic systems. Until then, there’s an even better solution.
Prevention of saltwater contamination
Depending on where you live, septic systems can cost thousands of dollars to install, not to mention the cost and inconvenience of digging up your entire yard if the leach field fails or a new system is required. Instead of risking possible damage to the septic and drain field, why not prevent saltwater from reaching there in the first place?
The Salt Miner offers the perfect way to enjoy all the benefits of soft water without wondering if your water softener is slowly damaging your septic. Simply install the Salt Miner on your existing water softener – the salt used in the softening process is collected as a semi-solid sludge in a “salt bucket” at the base of the machine. When full, the bucket can simply be emptied into the trash or recycled.
Now, THIS is an environmentally friendly water softening solution that will also bring you peace of mind!
