A new study
conducted through Virginia Tech will examine the effects water softeners might
have on septic tanks, the Water Quality Association recently announced.
The
investigation is being funded by WQRF (Water Quality Research Foundation),
which also announced it is seeking funding for the project and other projects.
The study is expected to be completed in summer 2012.
Dr. John
Novak of Virginia Tech is heading up the research. Novak has earned awards and
recognition for more than 30 years for his studies on wastewater treatment and
other projects.
The goals
are to find out whether various water softener operation patterns might have a
negative effect on septic tank performance, and if so, to develop operating
guidelines to minimize any problems.
The septic
study is expected to cost $95,000. WQRF, a not-for-profit foundation, is
seeking donors for the project and other initiatives. More information on
donations can be obtained at
WQRF@wqa.org
or by calling WQA at 630-505-0160.
Studies
have shown that in activated sludge systems, an imbalance of the cation ratio
in wastewater can lead to poor flocculation. The imbalance is typically caused
by excessive sodium and can lead to poor settling, which might ultimately clog
outlet filters. Water softeners operated primarily for removal of calcium and
magnesium produce a discharge that has a cation ratio that has been alleged to
impact septic tank performance.