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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.