Grey Water Collection
Rain Barrels are hooked up to your home’s gutter system; the rainwater pouring off your roof funnels straight into them. Grey water is not considered drinkable, but it is suitable for watering lawns and gardens. The rooftop of a typical home can collect more than 400 gallons from ½-inch of rain, making water harvesting well worth the effort. HOWEVER, some cities measure and sell their runoff therefore, grey water reclamation may not be legal in some cities in the U.S. Be sure to check first.
Re-Circulating Grey Water within a home is legal. Long-term storing of grey water can encourage bad growths, so quick use and filters are used. Effective filters are now available and built into some systems such as showers and tubs.
Pond Storage has been used in remote areas and larger land parcels as an emergency grey water source. Safe design is imperative to avoid stagnation or contaminated water. Permits may be required. Koi in a pond can prevent mosquito larvae and unwanted growths. Emergency sprinkler systems on rooftops, sourced by ponds, have saved houses when threatened by fire.