With a grey-water system, water from household appliances can be used again instead of wasted

A grey-water system takes waste water from the bath, wash basin and household appliances, then uses it to flush the loo. Instead of using grey water, if people took simple steps like having a shower instead of a bath, they’d reduce their water consumption by 80 litres a day.

PROS

In theory, it’s a great idea – getting the most out of a precious resource before it is released into the sewer. You could reduce your household’s water demands by up to 40 per cent. If you are on
a meter, just watch those bills fall.

CONS

Often grey water is warm, having just come out of the bath or washing machine, so it can be ideal conditions for bacteria to thrive. Use chemicals as your grey water could be harmful and smelly.

Useful Contacts

Supply Chains: www.supply-chains.co.uk
Gramm Environmental: www.grammenvironmental.com
Aquaco: www.waterdynamics.co.uk
Freewater: www.freewateruk.co.uk

Words: Dominic Murphy Image: SCL Water  Illustration: REUK