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WATER SOFTENERS AND SEPTIC SYSTEMS

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​This study was undertaken to investigate the effect home ion-exchange water softeners may have on the performance of onsite septic tanks. 

2-pager | Executive Summary
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​Full Report | 1-Minute Video
​Our Water Softeners & Septic Systems study investigates how home ion‑exchange water softeners impact onsite septic tank performance. This study combines laboratory simulations and real-world case studies to understand the impact of softener regeneration waste on septic tank processes. It examines factors such as water hardness, salt use, and system design to determine how these variables influence wastewater treatment and solids separation. This study offers valuable insights for homeowners, septic system professionals, and regulators seeking to strike a balance between water softening needs and effective onsite wastewater management.
Summaries and educational materials (toolkits, handouts, infographics, etc.) are publicly available resources, and the full scientific reports are free for Water Quality Association (WQA) members.

 ​If you are not a WQA member, please contact [email protected] to inquire about access to the full report(s) of interest. 

RELATED PROJECTS

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Study compared the chloride discharge to controls for neighborhoods that optimized existing water softeners and neighborhoods that replaced equipment with high-efficiency rated systems.
Learn More
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Focused on efficiency improvements in household water heaters from the use of softened water, and the subsequent effect on performance of fixtures. 
Learn More

WQRF | Knowledge of Quality Water


  • Home
    • WQRF Board
  • RESEARCH
    • Research & Summaries
    • Webinars
    • Impact Report
    • Request for Proposals
    • David Loveday Memorial Poster Contest
    • Scholar Poster Gallery
  • Toolbox
    • Contaminant Map
    • 1 Minute Videos
    • Softening Benefits Calculator
    • Softened Water Toolkit
  • Donate
  • EDUCATION
    • PFAS Resources
    • Contaminants & Risks
    • Treatment Options
  • Next Wave Campaign
    • Campaign Leadership
    • Campaign Supporters
  • Network
    • Water Experts
  • Events
    • Walk for Water
    • Sponsors
  • News Releases