Water pollution control superintendent suggests checking softeners
Due to continued increases in chloride levels, the Fontana/Walworth Water Pollution Control Commission is asking for help from local residents.
“Over the last years we have seen a steady increase in the amount of chlorides being discharged to the sewer. As you might be aware, our facility has a regulated permit limit from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, which dictates the amount of chlorides that can be discharged to the environment,” Doug York said.
York, superintendent of the commission, said people often wonder why the wastewater treatment plant does not remove the chlorides sent to them instead of discharging them to the environment.
“The answer is we would if we could, but currently there is no economical way to remove these ions from the wastewater,” York said.
He said the best method they have to control chlorides is by reducing the amount of chlorides discharged to the sanitary sewer by its customers.
The number one source of chlorides in general wastewater is from water softeners, according to York.
“We would like you to check your water softeners to see if they are wasting salt. If your softener regenerates on a timer, consider switching to high efficiency softener that regenerates with a meter. Metered water softeners track the amount of water you use and will regenerate only when necessary,” he explained.
Another option, he said, is to increase the time between regeneration cycles.
“If your softener uses a timer, increase the settings gradually, a day at a time, until you notice hardness effects – such as less sudsing – for two cycles. Next, set the timer to just below that point. Of course, if you are uncomfortable changing the settings on your water softener, we encourage you consult a qualified water softener representative,” York said.
He said the commission and local residents working together can make a difference.
“As a resident, you can save money by using less salt. Your community will benefit by avoiding costly violations that can be imposed by the state and by delaying or eliminating the need for expensive upgrades at your wastewater treatment plant,” York said.
“Also, our families will have the continued benefit of our area’s natural aquatic resources for years to come,” he added.
