It’s common for many homes to have water softener systems. After daily processing, these systems need to be regenerated using sodium-rich water called “brine” which must be disposed of. For homes with onsite septic systems, typically the brine would flow into the septic tank and make its way into the drainfield. However, recent research has shown that water softening units can cause potential problems to septic systems.

Local health department codes now require homes equipped with a water softener system to have a separate disposal system. Whether you’re building a new home or your current home has a water softener system, you will be required to have a separate wastewater system for soft water brine.