Rainwater

What is it? The water collected from you roof and guttering system during rain.

How do you use it? By storing rainwater runoff from your roof, rainwater tanks can provide a valuable water source for flushing toilets, running washing machines, watering gardens and washing cars. “To make it worthwhile, you need a tank big enough to provide a reasonable proportion of your water,” says Kristina Budd from online eco store Neco. “Usually the minimum is about 2000 litres, but this depends on the amount of rainfall.”

Many states and territories offer a rebate if you install a water tank at home. For example, if you live in NSW and install a 2000 litre capacity rainwater tank, you’ll receive a rebate of $150*, plus another $150 if you connect that tank to a toilet or washing machine. Check with your local water authority.

Bore water

What is it? “Bore water is any water that’s pumped from underground,” Kristina explains. “Availability is localised, but there are generally no restrictions on who can use it in urban areas. The water will need to be checked to ensure it’s not contaminated.”

How do you use it? You’ll need a pump to collect the water and a tank to store it in if you want to use it for anything other than irrigation. The pump usually has its own basic filter, which may be the only treatment the water needs before being used. If your bore water is of sufficient quality, it can be used everywhere you’d usually use mains water.

Grey water

What is it? Water redirected from your shower, bath, basin, laundry tub, washing machine and dishwasher. Water recycled from the toilet or kitchen sink is not “grey”, but “black”.

How do you use it? Grey water can be directed into subsurface irrigation systems, using basic filtering systems. But you may need to change to eco-friendly soaps. “Normal products can contain high levels of phosphorous, salt and chemicals, which could harm your soil and plants,” Kristina explains.

If you wish to use grey water for surface watering, the toilet, or the washing machine, it needs to be filtered through a domestic grey-water treatment system (best installed by a plumber). Treated grey water still can’t be used on vegie gardens or anywhere it could be consumed. Individual states have different regulations for recycling grey water, so check with them for exactly what you’ll need.

*Each state or territory has its own rebates in place, check with local councils or water authorities for current rebates available.

For more great ideas and practical solutions for your home see www.reallivingmag.com.au/