A water softener is a great way to improve your water quality, but it can also create problems when draining the system. The drain line removes the excess brine solution created during the softening process. The type of discharge option you choose will significantly impact your system’s overall performance and efficiency.

Water Softener Drain Line Discharge Options

Several different types of drain line discharge options are available, each with its own pros and cons. This article will take a closer look at some of the most popular options to help you decide which one is right for your home or business.

Option 1: Discharging into a Floor Drain

Discharging into a Floor Drain

One of the simplest and most common options for discharging a water softener drain line is to connect it to a nearby drain, such as a laundry sink or floor drain. This option is typically the easiest and most cost-effective, as it does not require any additional equipment or piping.

However, it can also be the least efficient, as it can lead to the discharge of large amounts of brine solution.

However, it is important to note that this option can cause problems if the floor drain is not vented correctly or if the drain becomes clogged.

Pros of Direct Drain Discharge:

  • Easy to install and maintain
  • No additional equipment is required
  • Least expensive option among other discharge options
  • Minimal space is required

Cons of Direct Drain Discharge:

  • The water softener will continuously discharge the water and may use more water
  • The discharge water may cause damage to the sewer or septic system if not properly maintained
  • Direct discharge into a public sewer system may not be allowed in some areas and may need special permits and inspections
  • Not suitable for areas with high water table or flooding potential
  • May not be allowed by local codes and regulations.

How to install a direct drain discharge on a water softener:

  1. Locate the drain line: The drain line is typically located at the bottom of the water softener, and it’s where the backwash water is discharged.
  2. Measure the drain line: Measure the size of the drain line and purchase the appropriate fittings and PVC pipe to connect the water softener to the drain.
  3. Shut off the water supply: Before starting the installation, shut off the water supply to the softener.
  4. Cut the PVC pipe: Use a PVC pipe cutter or saw to cut the PVC pipe to the appropriate length to connect the water softener to the drain.
  5. Install the fittings: Use PVC primer and cement to glue the fittings to the PVC pipe. Make sure the fittings are securely attached and the pipe is properly aligned.
  6. Connect the drain line to the water softener: Attach the PVC pipe to the drain line. Use PVC primer and cement to secure the connection.
  7. Test the system: Turn the water supply back on and check for leaks. If everything is secure, run a regeneration cycle on the water softener to ensure the drain line works properly.
  8. Check Local Plumbing Code: Before finalizing the installation, it is recommended to check with the local plumbing codes and regulations in your area to make sure that the installation is compliant with the local laws.

Note: It is important to comply with local plumbing codes and regulations when installing these discharge options. Consult a professional plumber before changing your water softener drain line.

Option 2: Discharging into a Sump Pump

Discharging into a Sump Pump

Another option for discharging a water softener drain line is to connect it to a sump pump. This option is often used in homes with no nearby floor drain or if the floor drain is not properly vented. A sump pump is a great option because it can pump the water out of the basement and away from your home. However, it can also be more expensive and may require additional plumbing.

Pros of Discharging a Water Softener into a Sump Pump:

  • Allows the water to be pumped away from the house and not discharged directly into the sewer or septic system.
  • Can prevent damage to the sewer or septic system caused by high volumes of water.
  • Can be useful in areas with high water tables or flooding potential, as the water can be pumped away from the house to prevent water damage.

Cons of Discharging a Water Softener into a Sump Pump:

  • Additional equipment is required, such as a sump pump, which can add to the installation cost.
  • Sump pumps require regular maintenance and may need to be replaced periodically.
  • Sump pumps can malfunction, causing water damage if not properly maintained.
  • It may not be allowed by local codes and regulations.
  • It may not be suitable for areas with high water tables or flooding potential if the sump pump is not powerful enough to pump the water away from the house.

How to install a sump pump to discharge water from a water softener:

  1. Locate the sump pit: The sump pit is typically located in the basement or crawl space of the house and is where the water from the water softener will be discharged.
  2. Purchase a sump pump: Purchase a sump pump suitable for the size of your water softener and the volume of water that will be discharged. Ensure the sump pump is powerful enough to pump the water away from the house.
  3. Install the sump pump: Place the pump in the sump pit and secure it. Connect the sump pump to a power source and ensure it works properly.
  4. Connect the drain line: Measure the size of the drain line and purchase the appropriate fittings and PVC pipe to connect the water softener to the sump pump.
  5. Cut the PVC pipe: Use a PVC pipe cutter or saw to cut the PVC pipe to the appropriate length to connect the water softener to the sump pump.
  6. Install the fittings: Use PVC primer and cement to glue the fittings to the PVC pipe. Make sure the fittings are securely attached, and the pipe is properly aligned.
  7. Connect the drain line to the sump pump: Attach the PVC pipe to the inlet. Use PVC primer and cement to secure the connection.
  8. Test the system: Turn the water supply back on and check for leaks. If everything is secure, run a regeneration cycle on the water softener to ensure the drain line and sump pump are working correctly.
  9. Check Local Plumbing Code: Before finalizing the installation, it is recommended to check with the local plumbing codes and regulations in your area to make sure that the installation is compliant with the local laws.

Option 3: Discharging into a Drain Field

Discharging into a Drain Field

A third option for discharging a water softener drain line is to connect it to a drain field. This option is often used in homes that are on a septic system. A drain field is a series of underground pipes that filter and disperse the water. This option is often expensive and may require additional permits and inspections.

Pros of Discharging a Water Softener into a Drain Field:

Cons of Discharging a Water Softener into a Drain Field:

  • It can strain the septic system if not properly maintained, as the high volume of water discharged by the water softener can saturate the soil and reduce its efficiency.
  • It can cause damage to the drain field, which can be costly to repair.
  • It may not be suitable for homes with poorly designed or failing septic systems.
  • It may not be allowed by local codes and regulations.
  • The water softener must be adjusted to discharge the water at the appropriate rate to avoid overloading the septic system.

How to discharge water from a water softener into a drain field:

  1. Locate the drain field: The drain field, also known as the leach field, is typically located in the backyard and is where the water from the septic tank is discharged and treated by the soil.
  2. Inspect the drain field and septic system: Before making any changes to the drain field, it’s important to have a professional inspect the septic system and drain field to ensure it is in good working condition and can handle the additional water from the water softener.
  3. Connect the water softener to the septic tank: Measure the size of the drain line and purchase the appropriate fittings and PVC pipe to connect the water softener to the septic tank.
  4. Cut the PVC pipe: Use a PVC pipe cutter or saw to cut the PVC pipe to the appropriate length to connect the water softener to the septic tank.
  5. Install the fittings: Use PVC primer and cement to glue the fittings to the PVC pipe. Ensure the fittings are securely attached, and the pipe is properly aligned.
  6. Connect the drain line to the septic tank: Attach the PVC pipe to the inlet. Use PVC primer and cement to secure the connection.
  7. Adjust the water softener: Adjust the water softener to discharge the water at a rate appropriate for the septic system. It is essential to avoid overloading the septic system with too much water.
  8. Test the system: Turn the water supply back on and check for leaks. If everything is secure, run a regeneration cycle on the water softener to ensure the drain line and septic system are working correctly.
  9. Check Local Plumbing Code: Before finalizing the installation, it is recommended to check with the local plumbing codes and regulations in your area to make sure that the installation is compliant with the local laws.

Option 4: Discharging into a Holding or Septic Tank

Discharging into a Holding or Septic Tank

Discharging water from a water softener into a sepic or holding tank refers to the discharge of water from a water softener into a separate tank where the water is stored temporarily and then disposed of or treated later.

This option is often used in homes not connected to the septic or municipal sewer systems. This option can be more expensive and may require additional permits and inspections.

Pros of Discharging a Water Softener into a Holding Tank:

  • It can be helpful in areas where direct discharge is not allowed or unsuitable, such as areas with high water tables or flooding potential.
  • It allows the water to be treated or disposed of later, making it more environmentally friendly.
  • It can be suitable for homes not connected to a public sewer system.

Cons of Discharging a Water Softener into a Holding Tank:

  • Additional equipment is required, such as a holding tank, which can add to the installation cost.
  • Holding tanks require regular maintenance and may need to be replaced periodically.
  • Holding tanks can malfunction, causing water damage if not properly maintained.
  • The water stored in the holding tank may need to be treated before it is disposed of, which can add to the maintenance cost.
  • It may not be allowed by local codes and regulations.
  • It may not be suitable for areas with high water tables or flooding potential if the holding tank is not adequately designed to prevent water damage.

How to discharge water from a water softener into a holding tank:

  1. Purchase a holding tank: Purchase a holding tank suitable for the size of your water softener and the volume of water that will be discharged. Make sure the holding tank is large enough to store the water from the water softener until it can be treated or disposed of.
  2. Install the holding tank: Locate a suitable location to install it, ensuring it is level and stable. Connect the holding tank to a power source and ensure it works properly.
  3. Connect the water softener to the holding tank: Measure the size of the drain line and purchase the appropriate fittings and PVC pipe to connect the water softener to the holding tank.
  4. Cut the PVC pipe: Use a PVC pipe cutter or saw to cut the PVC pipe to the appropriate length to connect the water softener to the holding tank.
  5. Install the fittings: Use PVC primer and cement to glue the fittings to the PVC pipe. Make sure the fittings are securely attached, and the pipe is properly aligned.
  6. Connect the drain line to the holding tank: Attach the PVC pipe to the inlet. Use PVC primer and cement to secure the connection.
  7. Test the system: Turn the water supply back on and check for leaks. If everything is secure, run a regeneration cycle on the water softener to ensure the drain line and holding tank are working correctly.
  8. Treat or Dispose of the water: The water stored in the holding tank may need to be treated before disposing of it. Following the local regulations and guidelines when treating or disposing of water is essential.

Option 5: Use an Air Gap discharge

Another popular option is an air gap discharge. This option involves installing an air gap fitting between the drain line and the discharge point, which helps prevent the brine solution’s backflow into the system. Air gap discharge is typically more efficient than direct discharge, as it reduces the amount of brine solution discharged. However, it can also be more expensive and complicated to install.

An air gap is a device installed between the water softener and a drain line that separates the two by a specific distance, creating a physical barrier to prevent the backflow of contaminated water into the water supply.

Pros of Using an Air Gap to Discharge Water from a Water Softener:

  • The air gap creates a physical barrier that prevents the backflow of contaminated water, providing an added level of protection for the water supply.
  • It can be helpful in areas where direct discharge is not allowed or unsuitable, such as areas with high water tables or flooding potential.
  • It can be suitable for homes not connected to a public sewer system.

Cons of Using an Air Gap to Discharge Water from a Water Softener:

  • Additional equipment is required, such as an air gap, which can add to the installation cost.
  • Air gaps require regular maintenance and may need to be replaced periodically.
  • Air gaps can malfunction, causing water damage if not properly maintained.
  • It may not be allowed by local codes and regulations.
  • It may not be suitable for areas with high water table or flooding potential if the air gap is not properly designed to prevent water damage.
  • It may not be suitable for homes with poorly designed or failing septic systems.

How to install an air gap to discharge water from a water softener:

  1. Purchase an air gap: Purchase an air gap suitable for the size of your water softener and the volume of water that will be discharged. Make sure the air gap meets the local plumbing codes and regulations.
  2. Locate the appropriate location: Locate a suitable location to install the air gap, ensuring it is easily accessible for maintenance and meets the local plumbing codes and regulations.
  3. Cut the drain line: Use a PVC pipe cutter or saw to cut the drain line from the water softener.
  4. Install the air gap: Insert it into the cut section of the drain line, ensuring it is securely in place and properly aligned.
  5. Connect the drain line to the air gap: Attach the PVC pipe to the outlet of the air gap. Use PVC primer and cement to secure the connection.
  6. Install a drain line: Measure the size of the drain line and purchase the appropriate fittings and PVC pipe to connect the air gap to the drain.
  7. Connect the air gap to the drain: Attach the PVC pipe to the air gap and connect it to the drain. Use PVC primer and cement to secure the connection.
  8. Test the system: Turn the water supply back on and check for any leaks. If everything is secure, run a regeneration cycle on the water softener to ensure the drain line, air gap, and drain are working properly.

Option 6: Backflow Prevention Device

A third option is a backflow prevention device to prevent the brine solution’s backflow into the system. This option is typically the most efficient and effective, as it minimizes the brine solution’s discharge. However, it can also be the most expensive and complicated to install, requiring additional equipment and piping.

A backflow prevention device is installed on a water softener’s discharge line to prevent the flow of contaminated water from the water softener back into the potable water supply.

Pros of Using a Backflow Prevention Device on a Water Softener:

  • It prevents the flow of contaminated water from the water softener back into the potable water supply, providing an added level of protection for the water supply.
  • It can be useful in areas where direct discharge is not allowed or unsuitable, such as areas with high water tables or flooding potential.
  • It can be suitable for homes not connected to a public sewer system.

Cons of Using a Backflow Prevention Device on a Water Softener:

  • Additional equipment is required, such as a backflow prevention device, which can add to the installation cost.
  • Backflow prevention devices require regular maintenance and may need to be replaced periodically.
  • Backflow prevention devices can malfunction, causing water damage if not properly maintained.
  • It may not be allowed by local codes and regulations.
  • It may not be suitable for areas with high water table or flooding potential if the backflow prevention device is not designed correctly to prevent water damage.
  • It may not be suitable for homes with poorly designed or failing septic system.

How to install a backflow prevention device for a water softener:

  1. Purchase a backflow prevention device: Purchase a backflow prevention device suitable for the size of your water softener and the volume of water that will be discharged. Make sure the device meets the local plumbing codes and regulations.
  2. Locate the appropriate location: Locate a suitable location to install the backflow prevention device, ensuring it is easily accessible for maintenance and meets the local plumbing codes and regulations.
  3. Cut the drain line: Use a PVC pipe cutter or saw to cut the drain line from the water softener.
  4. Install the backflow prevention device: Insert it into the drain line’s cut section, ensuring it is securely in place and properly aligned.
  5. Connect the drain line to the backflow prevention device: Attach the PVC pipe to the inlet of the backflow prevention device. Use PVC primer and cement to secure the connection.
  6. Install a drain line: Measure the size of the drain line and purchase the appropriate fittings and PVC pipe to connect the backflow prevention device to the drain.
  7. Connect the backflow prevention device to the drain: Attach the PVC pipe to the outlet of the backflow prevention device and connect it to the drain. Use PVC primer and cement to secure the connection.
  8. Test the system: Turn the water supply back on and check for any leaks. If everything is secure, run a regeneration cycle on the water softener to ensure the drain line, backflow prevention device, and drain are working properly.

Option 7: Reclaimed Water Discharge

A fourth option is reclaimed water discharge, in which the brine solution is used for irrigation or other non-potable uses. This option is typically the most sustainable, as it reduces the amount of water that is wasted and helps to conserve resources. However, it can also be the most complicated and expensive to install, requiring additional equipment and piping.

Pros of using reclaimed water discharge for a water softener

  • Cost savings: Reclaimed water is often cheaper than fresh water
  • Environmental benefits: Reducing the demand for freshwater can help conserve resources
  • Decreased water hardness: Reclaimed water may already be treated to remove minerals, resulting in softer water

Cons of using reclaimed water discharge for a water softener

  • Quality concerns: Reclaimed water may contain pollutants or bacteria that can be harmful if not properly treated
  • Availability: Reclaimed water may not be readily available in certain areas
  • Additional treatment needed: Reclaimed water may need to be further treated to remove impurities before it can be used in a water softener

How to install a reclaimed water discharge for a water softener:

  1. Locate the reclaimed water system: The reclaimed water system is typically located near the home and is where the water from the septic tank is treated and used for non-potable purposes.
  2. Inspect the reclaimed water system and septic system: Before making any changes to it, it’s important to have a professional inspect the reclaimed water system and septic system to ensure it is in good working condition and can handle the additional water from the water softener.
  3. Connect the water softener to the reclaimed water system: Measure the size of the drain line and purchase the appropriate fittings and PVC pipe to connect the water softener to the reclaimed water system.
  4. Cut the PVC pipe: Use a PVC pipe cutter or saw to cut the PVC pipe to the appropriate length to connect the water softener to the reclaimed water system.
  5. Install the fittings: Use PVC primer and cement to glue the fittings to the PVC pipe. Make sure the fittings are securely attached and the pipe is properly aligned.
  6. Connect the drain line to the reclaimed water system: Attach the PVC pipe to the inlet of the reclaimed water system. Use PVC primer and cement to secure the connection.
  7. Adjust the water softener: Adjust the water softener to discharge the water at a rate that is appropriate for the reclaimed water system. It is important to avoid overloading the reclaimed water system with too much water.
  8. Test the system: Turn the water supply back on and check for any leaks. If everything is secure, run a regeneration cycle on the water softener to ensure the drain line and reclaimed water system are working properly.

Conclusion

When choosing a drain line discharge option for your water softening system, it is important to consider each option’s cost, efficiency, and sustainability. With proper installation, maintenance, and regular service, the right discharge option can help to ensure that your water-softening system is operating at peak performance while also protecting the environment.

I'm a retired NYC Licensed Master Plumber and water purification specialist, bringing over 30 years of experience in plumbing and water filter technology. With a career spanning several decades, including work with major NYC plumbing companies, I now imparts my vast knowledge through Water Filter Cast, offering expert advice on water filtration systems and solutions.

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