Millions of people across the UK rely on septic tanks for sewage and waste management. For septic tank owners, there has been a longstanding debate about the impact that water-softening devices can have on the bacteria inside septic tanks.
The good news is that high-quality water softeners are safe to use with septic tanks. Here, we’ll explain where this concern comes from and the facts behind water softeners and septic tanks, helping you to make the best choice for your situation.
Water Softeners and Septic Tanks: Minerals and Bacteria
The main reason why people have asked questions about water softeners with septic tanks comes down to the water minerals and how they might interact with how the septic tank operates.
Water softeners work by removing dissolved minerals such as calcium and magnesium from your water through filtration. The waste from this process, which can contain high levels of salt, is then drained into your wastewater system (in this case, the septic tank).
Septic tanks work partly thanks to bacteria which digest the solids in wastewater, reducing the quantity and stopping the system from becoming clogged or overflowing.
Can You Use a Water Softener With a Septic Tank?
The vast majority of research suggests that water softeners are safe to use with septic tanks. In fact, studies suggest that there may be longer-term benefits for septic tank users.
Previously, there was concern that the waste from water softening systems might be harmful to the bacteria in septic tanks, potentially causing long-term problems for the tank’s effectiveness.
Now, the majority of research suggests that water softeners pose no harm to septic tanks, so long as both are operated properly. This is backed up by studies from the Water Quality Association and the Canadian Government, amongst others.
The Advantages of Using a Water Softener
Soft water comes with a wide range of benefits for your home and family, from cleaning to skincare and more.
Reduced Limescale
Limescale is a common problem for those of us living in hard water areas, but it doesn’t need to be.
Limescale is caused by the build-up of hard water minerals. A water softener removes these before they enter your home, meaning your appliances will be clean and healthy for much longer.
Cleaner Home
Hard water doesn’t just cause limescale, however. The minerals in hard water are what cause white, streaky marks to appear on sinks, showers, and other surfaces.
Water softeners remove these minerals from your water, and you’ll soon notice the difference in how much less you need to clean your surfaces.
Softer Skin
Without minerals like calcium and magnesium, soft water is much kinder on your skin. Hard water can make skin irritations more pronounced, whereas soft water can leave skin feeling healthier.
Less Chemicals
Did you know that you’ll use less cleaning products with soft water compared to hard water?
The minerals in hard water can stick to soap products, making the cleaning element less effective. This results in you needing to use more cleaning products and harsher chemicals. Soft water is much easier to clean with, meaning you can use less harsh chemicals for the same result.
Better Soaps & Bubbles
Similar to the point on cleaning products above, because soft water doesn’t impact the cleaning ability of soap, you’ll notice it’s much easier to create lathers and bubbles compared to hard water.
If you would like to learn more about water-softening systems for your home, message our team today for free personal advice.
