Before discussing the numerous uses and benefits of using grey water, let’s first talk about what grey water is and is not. Grey water is lightly used water by house appliances like sinks, tubs, and washing machines. It may have small amounts of dirt, grease, hair, or food. More importantly, though, it is NOT water that’s come into contact with feces.

So, what can we do to utilize this grey water, instead of allowing it to become polluting run-off? Well, the easiest way is the use it as your irrigation water in your yard or garden. To plants and the soil they live in, this gently used water is full of necessary, beneficial nutrients. In a sense, grey water is a kind of recycled fertilizer. In contrast, it is dangerous if humans (or animals, for that matter) consume this or it finds its way into the local water supply. That is when grey water becomes pollution, instead of a beneficial way to irrigate a garden or a yard.

Grey water can be piped directly outside. You can use it to water all kinds of foliage from ornamental perennials to fruit trees. As long as the grey water does not come into contact with the fruits or vegetables on the plant, it is perfectly safe to use on plants that grow produce. In order to ensure that the grey water stays ‘gently’ or ‘lightly’ used, make sure that the cleaners that you are using are plant-friendly. For example, cleaners with boron or chlorine bleach should not be used if you are planning to reuse the grey water that your home appliances create as a byproduct. Additionally, grey water must permeate the soil deeply. Allowing it to pool or puddle up on the surface allows it to become stagnant and dangerous. When it does permeate the soil, though, it can reconnect your yard or garden back to a natural water cycle.

Do more for the environment. Make use of the gently used grey water by using it as an irrigation source, instead of letting it pollute our environment. Call Water Cleaning Services at 888.689.7858 for more information.