Conserve Safely: Don't Reuse Gray Water

10/26/2007

Over the past several months, many citizens have increased their conservation efforts as Wake County moved from a moderate to severe to exceptional drought. Conserving water protects the existing water supply as a means of protecting public health and safety. While most of these efforts are to be commended, some well-intended conservation measures can be dangerous.

The biggest conservation danger is reusing gray water (wastewater such as washing machine drainage, used dish water or bath water). Gray water may contain pathogens such as fecal coliform and bacteria, which can make people and animals sick. It is illegal to reuse gray water in North Carolina.

It is safe (and legal) to reuse pre-shower water. Place a 10-gallon bucket in the shower while you wait for the water to warm up. This is not gray water, because it has not been used for cleaning. Use this water to water plants or wash dishes.

Related:

• What you should know about gray water.
• View area water conservation and restriction information.
  
  
  
  
  
  

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