We’ve all heard about grey water systems as an eco-friendly use for water that would otherwise go to waste, but many households are reluctant to adopt one because they are unsure what it involves. Read on to find out the basics and benefits of using grey water.
What is grey water?
Grey water is defined as any domestic waste water, including water from washing machines, basins, sinks, baths, and showers.
Grey water does not include sewerage, which is known as ‘black water’. It is estimated that the average Australian household produces around 1500 litres of grey water per week that could be reused.
Where can you use it?
Grey water can be used
- For flushing toilets
- In the laundry
- Outdoors
- In the garden
Why use grey water?
There are many reasons why people choose to install a grey water system in their home, including
- Environmental benefits: it ensures that we are making the most of water as a precious resource, and that it is not needlessly wasted.
- Saving money: by reusing water you consume much less of it than you otherwise would, which brings your water bill down.
- Water restrictions: using grey water means you can still water your garden freely even under severe water restrictions
- Good for the garden: most of the chemicals remaining in grey water can be beneficial, rather than detrimental to plants – especially if eco-friendly cleaning products are used. As long as it is not overused, the traces of phosphorous and nitrogen left behind in grey water are loved by plants, grass, and soil.
What kinds of systems are there?
There are two main kinds of grey water systems on the market:
- Diversion, which allows water to run off directly from the house to the garden. Diversion and filtration systems are usually recommended for large gardens, and are the cheapest grey water option.
- Treatment, which collects and purifies grey water for later use. Because the grey water is treated more thoroughly in this type of system, it can be used in more ways, including on edible plants and herbs, in the toilet, and even the washing machine.
If you’re considering making the most of your grey water, talk to the experts at Curran Plumbing to find out which kind of system is best for your home: enquire online or call 1300 045 240 today. Why call us, because we are accredited Enviroplumbers through the Master Plumbers Association of NSW.
