How to Convert Grey Water From Home Use to Water a Garden

Water conservation is obviously a concern illustrated by the rise in popularity of synthetic grass. The various methods of creative irrigation range from polymer crystals for water retention to recycling graywater. This article will address graywater and its benefits and drawbacks.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. The definition of graywater is water that ranges between potable water (water that is rated for human consumption) and blackwater (water that is of poor quality and not to be used for consumption or households i.e. non-potable.)
   
   Graywater is most commonly disposal water from washing machines, sinks and showers or bathtubs.
   
   Water from toilets and dishwashers is most often considered blackwater due to contaminants.
2. Systems for harvesting graywater vary greatly from highly sophisticated filtering units to drainage of washing machine waste water out an open window.
   
   There are regulations for use of graywater. These include allowance for recycling of permitable wastewater whereby water is collected in a holding tank and filtered. The holding tank allows for settling of sediment from the water, the filter then removes other containments such as chorine and/or sodium.
3. At that point, water can be used for irrigation but only in an underground drip irrigation system. Think leach line from a septic tank.
4. Note: Improper use of graywater is most often illegal. Watering above ground is forbidden as is forgoence of the holding tank and filter.
5. Systems are available for purchase and vary in price. Depending upon the model, installation can be difficult in homes on slab.
   
   All things considered, it is pertinent to check with local city ordinances regarding graywater recycling codes and if at all possible, install in new home construction or during major remodel of a preexisting structure.