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Grey Water Systems

Grey water reuse is an excellent way of saving both water and money in your household. Grey water is available every time you shower, have a bath, or use the washing machine and the average household creates up to 83,000 litres of grey water per year. Read on to find out how you can use it in your household.

What is Grey Water?

Grey water is the waste water that comes from the washing machine, laundry sink, shower, bath, and hand basins. It does not include the water from the kitchen and the toilet – this is called black water. Grey water used to be seen as waste water but it is now being reused as a source of water for the garden, for flushing toilets, and for washing clothes.

Using Grey Water

Grey water can be reused in most areas of Australia; however, the regulations differ in each state so you will need to check with the local council or the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) before starting to install any grey water system. Generally, you should not pipe the grey water directly onto your garden, and this is actually illegal in some states.

Direct Diversion Systems

Direct diversion is where the grey water is diverted directly to the lawn or garden using an approved piping system. This is the cheapest option for grey water reuse but be aware that you will be restricted in how you use it. For example, a direct diversion system can only be used as a sub-surface irrigation system. The water cannot go straight on to the garden, nor can it be reused in the home. Diverted grey water also cannot be stored, so it will need to be used immediately. The diversion system needs to be installed by a licensed plumber, and it should divert to the sewer during periods of wet weather.

One diversion system is the funnel insert. This is one of the simplest products and it is ideal for situations where water does not need to be diverted away quickly. It does not need to be installed by a plumber and you can easily remove it when it is not needed. All you have to do is unscrew you wastewater inspection cap and insert the funnel. Be aware that the system can overflow due to the narrow opening on the funnel.

An in line diverter is designed to cut into the existing waste water that is piped from the bathroom or the laundry. Most systems use a valve that allows the water to either be diverted to the garden or to continue to the sewerage system. Ensure that the toilet and kitchen waste water cannot flow into the diverter.

Grey Water Treatment Systems

A domestic grey water treatment system is the more expensive option but it gives you more flexibility in how you can use your waste water. The system collects, stores, and then treats the grey water. Different systems will treat the water to different qualities. Therefore some systems will only let you use the treated water for irrigation, while others will allow you to use the water for flushing the toilet and in the washing machine. Generally speaking, you will need council approval to install a grey water treatment system. You will also need a licensed plumber.

Grey Water Considerations

When installing any type of grey water system, there are some things that you will need to consider. Always check with your local council before installing any system and all systems need to be installed by a licensed plumber. In the garden, only use grey water with watering systems that operate beneath the surface. Treated grey water has had most nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus removed, so it’s safer to use in large quantities. When gardening with grey water, keep a close eye on the plants. You may need to reduce the amount of fertiliser that you use. Avoid using grey water on fruits and vegetables that you intend to eat raw or lightly cooked. For safety, do not use grey water on edible plants at all.

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