What’s grey water?

Grey water isn’t exactly gray. And some people call it graywater, grey water, or gray water. Confusing, eh?

Unless Jennifer disagrees, I’m going to call it grey water.

Grey water is any water that has been used in the home: shower, sink, laundry. Toilet water shouldn’t be reused. Grey water can be used for different purposes, like watering the lawn. Grey water may also be used in the toilet.

You can install a grey water system to filter, store and re-route used water. But first, make sure it’s legal in your area and that you’ll be able to get a permit. Grey water systems aren’t allowed everywhere. Check locally.

If you’re considering a grey water system, you’ll also need to do some research into the needs of your garden plants and the types of household cleaners you’re using. Plants that love acid don’t do well with grey water, and some household cleaners aren’t compatible with grey water systems.

Businesses/products for grey water systems:

ReWater

Clivus Multrum

Brac Systems

Garden Angel from Perpetual Water

More on grey water:

Oasis Design

Grist: On Channeling Gray Water to the Garden

Treehugger: Big Steps in Building: Install Gray Water Recovery Everywhere

UMASS Extension: Recycling Gray Water for Home Gardens

Grey water systems can be effective for reusing some water, but you don’t necessarily need a grey water system in order to conserve.

There are lots of little ways to save water inside the home. Check back tomorrow for a post on water-saving tricks.

What are ways that you save or reuse water from your home?

Image via flickr.

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