Water Softener Discharge Disposal Methods
The information provided below offers several approved methods for disposing of the water generated from the water softener tank. It is unlawful to have sump pumps, downspouts, and water softener backwash connected to the Hamburg Township Sanitary Sewer System (HTSSS).
The property owner, or an approved contractor hired by the owner, must disconnect the water discharge (brine) line from the building sewer. The following are some (not all) methods of disposing of water softener discharge:
A. Run the discharge line to the outside and let the water run onto the ground.
B. Install a below-ground infiltration basin (dry-well): Bury a container in the ground, fill it with stone or sand, and run the discharge line to the container. Drill holes in the container to allow the water to seep into the surrounding soil. A sump pump tub, which ranges in size from 15 to 24 inches in diameter to 2 to 4 fee in depth, is an example of a container that could be used.
C. Convert an existing septic tank: Pump out and clean your existing septic tank, break holes in the bottom of the tank and fill the tank with stone. Disconnect and plug the outlet pipe to the tile field to prevent groundwater from flowing back into the tank.
ATTENTION:
THE HAMBURG TOWNSHIP SEWER ORDINANCE AND MDEQ SODIUM & CHLORIDE REGULATIONS PROHIBIT DISCHARGE OF THE WATER SOFTENER SYSTEM INTO THE SANITARY SEWER. VIOLATORS ARE SUBJECT TO PENALTIES AND FINES.
Sewer related questions should be directed to the Utilities Coordinator, Brittany K. Campbell at (810) 231-1000 Ext. 210 or via email at bcampbell@hamburg.mi.us.
Contact info:Hamburg Township Utilities Department
P.O.Box 157
10405 Merrill Road
Hamburg, Michigan, 48139
Phone: 810-231-1000 Ext. 210
Fax: 810-231-4295
E-mail: bcampbell@hamburg.mi.us