Using greywater in and around the home
Photo: Thinkstock
What is greywater?
Greywater is usually water that has already been used in the washing machine that most householders look to recycle.
It also includes waste water from the kitchen and bathroom, but does NOT include toilet water - this is called black water.
In most households you can easily install a small system that you can get from most hardware stores to save greywater. It involves a simple fitting to attach a hose from the washing machine to a water tank.
Using greywater in the garden
Greywater is a fantastic option for watering the garden. It means you reduce your reliance on tap/drinking water and enables you to water during water restrictions.
Before using untreated greywater talk to your local garden centre - they can advise you on what detergents and powders you can use that won't harm your plants. Generally, detergents that are low in phosphates are best. It's recommended that you avoid using greywater on vegetable gardens and herbs.
Other uses for greywater
If you install a greywater treatment and filtration system you can use greywater in the laundry and toilet - the two places in the home where the most water is used.
Note: All local councils and water authorities have different regulations. Do check with both before proceeding.
Below are the Australian government guidelines for use of greywater:
Do:
Wash your hands after watering with greywater
Use garden-friendly cleaning products that are biodegradable and are free from or low in sodium and phosphorous
Pipe greywater underground or under mulch to water your garden
Irrigate your ornamentals and orchards, making sure greywater is not in direct contact with fruit
Regularly check your greywater system is working properly
Divert greywater to the sewer during wet periods
Stop using greywater if someone in the household is sick
Check your state and local regulations
Use a licensed plumber to install your system
Avoid clogged soil by using a coarse filter to reduce the amount of solids in your greywater
Make sure you contain greywater within your property.
Don't:
Store untreated greywater for more than 24 hours
Use greywater to water vegetables and herbs that are to be eaten raw or partly cooked
Use greywater sourced from washing nappies or soiled clothes
Use greywater that has disinfectants and bleaches in it
Use greywater from kitchens, unless it has been treated
Use greywater that is still hot as it will kill beneficial organisms in the soil
Spray or hose greywater
Allow pets to drink greywater.