How do septic tanks work?

So before tackling your options lets briefly go over what a septic tank is and how it works. If you’re already familiar feel free to skip ahead! A septic tank is a storage tank underground designed to provide basic sewage treatment. These systems are necessary when a home isn’t connected to a main sewage system. These systems essentially use gravity to separate different waste into layers with scum on the top and heavier waste on the bottom and wastewater between the two. Anaerobic bacteria is cultivated in the tank which breaks down the heavier waste at the bottom whilst the wastewater is released into drainage fields where natural bacteria in the soil breaks it down.

The problem with treating limescale

The most common and well-known method to dealing with limescale is an ion exchange water softener. These systems work by replacing the minerals in the water with sodium ions. This is where the problem lies

Water softeners flush out a brine solution during their regeneration process, this solution is high in salt, which binds with particles in the soil of the septic tanks soakaway (the system to drain the wastewater into the drainage fields) the binding of the salt creates a waterproof barrier meaning the soakaway fills with water depriving the vital aerobic bacteria in the tank of oxygen. The performance of the tank is further affected as the changed conditions in the soakaway lead to the build up of anaerobic bacteria, creating slimy layers further blocking the soakaway and causing the tank to back up and fill with septic sludge.

Now this isn’t guaranteed to happen with a water softener, depending on the make and model and the hardness of the water, the two systems may work well together. But it is always a risk, which is why most septic tank manufacturers recommend that water softeners not be used in conjunction with their systems. In some cases, your warranty can be made invalid with the addition of a water softener.

Why Halcyan works well with septic tanks

Luckily, you can tackle your limescale problems without risking your septic system. Halcyan is a water conditioner which treats hard water and prevents limescale build up without the addition of salts into your water. Because Halcyan is an entirely passive system it can be safely installed alongside a septic tank and will have no negative impact whatsoever on the vital aerobic bacteria in your tank. That’s not the only good news however. The Halcyan is a long lived and compact piece of kit, making it convenient to install and very cost effective. It will last for 30 years without needing maintenance or upkeep of any kind.

Final Thoughts:

So if you’re struggling with hard water but have decided to grin and bear it due to the risk of using a water softener, you don’t have to! A halcyan, is almost tailor made for your situation, and if not us there are other salt free alternatives (though we have them beat!). If you’re interested why not see which of our systems would suit you best? Answer our quiz below!

What is Retrofit?

Before we dive into the specifics, what does retrofit mean in the context of construction? In short it is the process of replacing or fitting new systems to existing properties to reduce their energy consumption and improve their energy efficiency. As you can imagine there are many ways this can be done from simple changes such as installing LED light bulbs, replacing insulation, all the way to installing solar panels and ground or air source heat pumps. Retrofit is at the forefront as a method of moving the UK to becoming more sustainable.

What is Halcyan?

Halcyan is a water conditioner. A device used to treat hard water to prevent the formation of limescale. Halcyan sets itself apart from other conditioners due to the potency of its effects and its long (30 year) lifespan. One of the biggest advantages of the system are its passive nature, once installed the Halcyan requires no replacements, energy or maintenance of any kind.

How it helps with energy!

So how does dealing with limescale fit into the retrofit mission? Limescale deposits form all over the home but heating elements are particularly at risk. A little-known aspect of limescale is that it is an excellent insulator, meaning a boiler in a hard water area will start to lose efficiency as soon as it is first turned on. This insulating effect is so potent that for every 1mm of limescale on a heating element the amount of energy required to heat water is increased by 7-10 percent. Halcyan helps to prevent this build up meaning the efficiency of hot water appliances is maintained for longer, thereby saving energy and carbon in the home. An installed Halcyan can save the average UK house an estimated 4.2 tonnes of CO2e a year!

Not only will the Halcyan protect newly added equipment but it will also slowly reduce existing build up as well. This is another excellent feature for retrofit as existing pipework can be kept instead of needing a replacement in areas where limescale build up is particularly concentrated.

Final Thoughts:

If retrofitting your property is on the cards, make sure you don’t forget hard water! The many improvements you make might find themselves breaking down much more quickly than you thought! A solution like Halcyan is a perfect complement to newer, greener water heating methods. If you’re interested why not check out which of our units would best fit your home using our handy quiz!