How to Save Air Conditioner Water for Plants

Buckets of air conditioner condensation easily supplement other garden water sources.

During the hottest part of the summer, city gardeners are often faced with a conundrum: just when their plants need water the most, many cities put restrictions on watering. Fortunately, the hottest time of the year is the time when air conditioners run the hardest. Air conditioners are a good source of pure, mineral-free water in the form of condensation. This condensation is an excellent source of water for your plants.

Things You'll Need

• 5 Gallon bucket

Instructions

1. Place a 5 gallon plastic bucket under the condensation pipe of your air conditioner.

2. Check the water level of the bucket daily.

3. When the water has reached the top of the bucket, remove the bucket from beneath the condensation pipe.

4. Empty the bucket around the base of your plants.

5. Place the bucket beneath the condensation pipe of your air conditioner to catch more water.

Tips & Warnings

• If your air conditioner puts out more water than a slow drip, you may need to check the level of your bucket several times daily.

References

• Plant Answers.com Website: Water Sources For Plants
• Treehugger Website: Can I water My Plants With It?

Resources

• Thrifty Fun Website: Reuse Air Conditioning Water in the Garden
• Personal Website: My Rain Barrels