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https://www.altwater.org/recent-projects/category/Branched+Drain monthly 0.5 https://www.altwater.org/blog daily 0.75 2024-03-13 https://www.altwater.org/blog/fish-discovered-water monthly 0.5 2020-08-31 https://www.altwater.org/blog/measuring-groundwater-levels-in-a-well monthly 0.5 2024-03-13 https://www.altwater.org/blog/tag/Groundwater monthly 0.5 https://www.altwater.org/blog/tag/Green+Technology monthly 0.5 https://www.altwater.org/blog/tag/%23Water+Conservation monthly 0.5 https://www.altwater.org/blog/tag/Permaculture monthly 0.5 https://www.altwater.org/about daily 0.75 2023-03-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596075863410-PWGNE1V22IE80ZD2RELH/ALT%2Bwater%2Bimages.jpg About ALT water’s % of workload per different sectors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1595969053116-UR60ESPB5MJO7ISWJ1WJ/ALT+water+mind+map.001.jpeg About The Greater ALT Water Project Mindmap https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1595900124832-HJWP9GBY7TM6ITBKWB5V/10669026_10205287912023201_5689373673939089098_o%2B2.jpg About https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1595992671698-7UG2Y5AXO9N2B9SA2110/IMG_0466-4.jpg About - Our history. ALT Water was founded in 2019 by Chris Reamer while working as an independent contractor and educator in diverse fields of landscape water conservation, greywater, rainwater, and stormwater management, Chris identified the need for an organization bringing all the different alternate water(s) together under one school of thought. Building on the tremendous work of mentors and partner organizations, ALT Water presents a streamlined game changing approach to inspire, improve, promote and implement alternate water-use systems for widespread adoption. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599332935045-FS2KNU0NGWBQ7XIQ8GXK/smwsalogo_sml.png About https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599333113174-R0USJWZUJIG0Q5J9PB0F/slider-2_original.jpg About https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599332660803-AUQ566G3554DIKNHB5NB/bluebarrel-logo.jpg About https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596226814530-RMH9O70AWB203N8RW7WX/water+stewardship.jpg About https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1595974037018-I4CJ37ZNQ53NB8MBVLWZ/ALT+water+images1.jpg.001.jpeg About https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1595974084772-TB6GD3Y73MAT2DTM30V9/fullsizeoutput_210c.jpeg About https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1595974120356-159YLS7EB8N3D8Q0HBDD/388748_252580204809610_2003427266_n.jpg About https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1595974275720-U9EMOQ5GVYI33Q6TG4TE/fullsizeoutput_210d.jpeg About https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1595974302164-K1I62TMRH2C56LQY8VPM/1011598_10151506859862032_1779057367_n.png About https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1595974320276-7EL4OD3H7JZKPBKCDXOA/242109_220712881279827_7155462_o.jpg About https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1595974429010-F9VO1Z0OCZBTSGY93XLO/50423328_2133806816672604_946741410583805952_n.jpg About https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1595974581402-9HH2C383B36MGNUZ5HC3/fullsizeoutput_210e.jpeg About https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1595974796233-8NSOYL5OENYO7OO4RRRR/water+now+logo.001.jpeg About https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1595975095675-NHRREXNKZGV1KUNH56YW/calwep+logo.001.jpeg About https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1595975548287-FI01DQB29LNFN3SWQ7XP/sonoma+water+logo.001.jpeg About https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1595975848626-O4TUIODKOHSXP02YAIXT/fullsizeoutput_2112.jpeg About https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1595978398724-8S30SSV69OKMN6FH1AG9/watershed+progressive.png About https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1595981449971-0CBNOSMD1UR5F32Q6UVB/fullsizeoutput_2115.jpeg About https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1595981897476-WCS1LEQJKDT9PBVYQPUK/Volume-1-Cover-4-21-19-2-1.jpg About https://www.altwater.org/home daily 1.0 2020-08-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596082489298-EDAYDGAKAO5YVTP23X8J/Background%2Bcolor%2Bcopy.jpg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1595550856370-IJAHRMEQX1SXHJLZSJ3F/fullsizeoutput_20e9.jpeg Home - Achieve an impact. Shift the delicate balance of water scarcity issues facing us today. Reduce freshwater use and the negative impacts of wastewater disposal on environmental health of local aquifers, waterways and soil biology. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1595551323685-Y43E2RT91H3BILWWPIFC/alt%2Bwater%2Blogos7.001.jpg Home - Focus on efficiency. Improper designs won’t save water. New advances in control and distribution systems can increase irrigation efficiency astronomically while at the same time facilitating the integrated management of multiple water sources. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596064164010-HXWT7YHCWU01KK4MBX59/IMG_3652-1.jpg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596067910236-88IW28QH92NQYC64LM0C/IMG_5500.jpg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596065027797-3VEWMQS9SZVOLDV31QPE/UNADJUSTEDNONRAW_mini_4e5e.jpg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596072401293-1KA1JVUN6GMOISCHDKAZ/IMG_3203.jpg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596071061965-NEGE24H9RT79G136J6XR/rawImage-1.jpg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596071004908-ABBCOJV7KSZ1FII2BAFZ/FHJAU04_KITFAU_01-1.jpg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596221240221-NRKZ7YES6FQRGXLVHUGV/chart2.001.jpg Home - Consider a practical solution. Use the water we already have much more efficiently. Alternate water use systems give us a practical and beneficial solution to water supply issues facing us today. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596306690330-I68OD1XA63SPCPO7FNM4/water%2Buse%2Bchart.001.jpg Home - Irrigation is draining us dry. In the densely populated environments of seasonally dry climates such as California, outdoor water used for irrigation accounts for almost half of all water used, and globally, agriculture accounts for around 70% of all water withdrawals from freshwater. https://www.altwater.org/contact-us daily 0.75 2020-08-31 https://www.altwater.org/our-work daily 0.75 2020-08-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596325788127-CVVCH09OKYLYS4IZXMY1/16700462_1087427111403560_6960891034040364031_o.jpg RESOURCES https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596326155541-ZXN6EEKR2YL1UHRXK4MQ/etozonemap.jpg RESOURCES https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596325236148-JH6RXGNFBBB9HPLSZDSP/clean%2Bwater%2Bcomponenets.jpg RESOURCES https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596328170117-LHNAHPOJ37VFYLJLGHJJ/IMG_8185.jpg RESOURCES https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596326657782-33BAYHWVABLQIL51U6XQ/IMG_8540.jpg RESOURCES https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596327759448-ISOMGAAYLS6NWEXZKRMQ/IMG_8160.jpg RESOURCES https://www.altwater.org/graywater-copy daily 0.75 2020-08-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596431876762-ACTU6B54E3BIZNN5H5MO/watersavings-month-2.jpg Graywater Basic info about Graywater https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596432398315-ITNFC6YG3F1B1LKBHWBQ/IMG_1370%2B%25281%2529.jpg Graywater Key points to designing a legal and effective system. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596437379157-AN55WTGT9BP8IKL5R9GO/P1060916.jpg Graywater • Choosing the right system. • Pros and cons of different designs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596435248555-GIVBP9P120U52476OLDT/IMG_3567.jpg Graywater • Wood chip bio-filters • Experimental designs • (NOT LEGAL IN CALIFORNIA) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596433602400-L3B0CSZOF32LO40GSEJ4/IMG_1199.jpg Graywater • Landscape direct systems • Laundry 2 Landscape • Laundry Drum system https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596433959214-3VC7RKTSMJQGAEM0EZM3/IMG_0091.jpg Graywater •Low-tech gravity fed • Branched Drain • Whole house systems https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598405808054-3L9F2DQEL5DU4KABURZ0/image.jpeg Graywater • Preferred practices • Learning from failed systems https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596436188192-Z6OMHPSFXYH3DQH04J0M/IMG_8160.jpg Graywater • Indoor reuse (example: toilet flushing) • Required filtration and disinfecion • Currently not allowed under California code. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596435350350-A578MRR1SB4KQNC0RV8M/gw%2Bconstructed%2Bwetland%2Bpic.jpg Graywater • Disposal Systems for small sites Photo credit: Graywater Action https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596472900038-M1SRF02ZZXMW1L3Z9AXZ/pump%2Bsystem.001.jpg Graywater • Code requirements • Inflow, Overflow, Drain, Vent • Pump types and sizing https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596471880351-F50VC5FF27HLJC1DR6CF/tree%2Bfottprint.001.jpg Graywater • Calculating minimum infiltration areas • Soil types and their effect on system sizing • Plant water requirements https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596472378918-4BIEQ3PJPSBR2DE94KHF/IMG_1341%2B%25281%2529.jpg Graywater • Filtered to drip irrigation • Pumped unfiltered https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596473641022-XBGZQ147AHTKF5ZC1P9V/hqdefault.jpg Graywater • Unique challenges of Graywater filtration • Disc media and screen Filters • Self-Cleaning Filters • Natural Filtration in soil • Other & Experimental filter designs https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596474923019-NNJF6E7S4H4C7HCFUAA8/IMG_1338.jpg Graywater • Integrating with Irrigation controllers • Smart Controllers • Pump start relays https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596475378189-53D6KZ8OLM918U57BCGU/PD1330RCW-13mm-x-30m-Grey-Water-Inline-Drip-Tube-2-680x777.jpg Graywater • Compatability with different emitters, valves • Efficiency vs passive low tech • Necessarry Filtration https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596477297183-SO56FFC4H292COYCPABW/IMG_3299.jpg Graywater • Which systems require a Permit • Legal Requirements for systems • Required Setbacks • Sample Permit Submissions https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596477736316-90L3ZT1V5N8BDZU3K4ED/evaluating%2Blandscapes.001.jpg Graywater • Minimum space requirements • Accessibility of drainpipes • Proximity to surface water/wells • Path of piping to irrigation area • Flexibility with product selection https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596478198212-TJXR1F8D2MA6IVRSYH1W/plumbing%2Baccess.001.jpg Graywater • General Plumbing Principles • Slope and gravity flow • Traps and vents • Pipe sizing per fixture units • Required Parts and tools https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596478702788-40SYXCZ8VYXW8V0BB4OL/diy-laundry-detergent-500x500.jpg Graywater • How Cleaning Products Effect Greywater quality and soil/plant health. • Products free of Salt/boron/ chlorine bleach https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596479616254-SO9QREIMUT6KGKEOCMLA/IMG_8611.jpg Graywater Effective designs and water management Improper designs won’t save water Irrigation efficiency of different design Under-realized water savings from graywater Net benefit vs. Potable water offset https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596479120119-42VSLQWG93R5WJQ3P7UY/which%2Bplants.001.jpg Graywater • Trees and large plants best for low-tech systems • All plants possible with high-tech systems • Sub-surface drip under lawns • PH sensitive Plants • Root vegetables and other Prohibited Plants https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596483876592-CM904U2QZX1PRTVMC18R/septic-cover.jpg Graywater • reducing demand on septic systems and sewage treatment plants • Potentials for reduced septic systems with graywater use supplementation • Soaps as dispersants against settling • Minimum required flows for wastewater systems https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596483531784-Y8HMNRYVCBBNJPBCSSH2/tracking.001.jpg Graywater • Monitoring and adjusting over time • Calculating irrigation water budgets https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596482232546-VS8GCJV6BP1T7WQZ6J7F/integrating.jpg Graywater • Dual systems vs one integrated control systems • Equipment compatible with greywater •Graywater generated in uncontrollable frequency •Preventing Cross-connection of potable and non-potable water https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596484694430-4IPW0HSVRGYW8KTNXX3S/GettyImages-492644377-59ee1eecd963ac0010c5df47.jpg Graywater • simple designs have a lower initial and operating costs •More complex designs may offset more potable water use/cost buthhave operational costs •Are water savings sufficient to justify the proposed system? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596485548835-RCE7AJTGQVRCENWACXZA/IMG_2866%2B%25281%2529.jpg Graywater •Web Listings of Certified Installers •ALT Water installations •Related trades and contractors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596485201595-P0B36VV8ZNY4AA74O2C6/89ec088e96844f8ea9767db3dee7e65b.jpg Graywater •Training Programs and Certifications •Apprenticeship Opportunities •Required License(s) •Starting your own Graywater business •DIY Systems, Owner/Builder Permits https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596487557787-WPKAJQWUNY1EI5VLLHVV/20170722_125022_HDR.jpg Graywater • Free educational webinars •Training webinars •Upcoming classes and presntations https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596486923127-D7PQ7Z6MGUA44X2QJHKS/L2LdvdArt2.0d.jpg Graywater https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596487073470-BBLZ0S0ESEA7G1M62IY0/water-08-00264-g002.jpg Graywater https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596487628121-2O6PX4J46S0AG9PQTDE9/QWEL%2B-%2BClass%2B1%2B2012.jpg Graywater https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596487311435-FJV16KUG3W1RVNP6BESR/IMG_8185.jpg Graywater https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596487970545-28NB2GFUWUK1SURB4ZFX/2529024.jpg Graywater •Guidelines for dual plumbing and stub-outs •Landscape layout and piping considerations <a href='https://www.freepik.com/photos/business'>Business photo created by freepik - www.freepik.com</a> https://www.altwater.org/faqs-4 daily 0.75 2020-08-06 https://www.altwater.org/faqs-4-1 daily 0.75 2020-08-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596500110300-67MN4BV60B1UUX961YFW/3%2Bway%2Bvalve%2Blabel.jpg Basic Guidelines Graywater - Be able to switch back. Have an easy way for the user to redirect flow back to the sewer or septic in case you have to wash something toxic or hazardous (ie. automotive grease, paint brushes, chemicals from home photo lab, diaper water etc.), or if seasonal weather conditions such as high groundwater or precipitation levels makes it difficult to infiltrate graywater without causing runoff or contamination to local environments. Diversion is usually accomplished through what’s called called a 3-way valve, and must be labeled and easily accessible. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596502019242-E9TGO0A5X0NWB2XIXRQU/IMG_2082.JPG Basic Guidelines Graywater - Keep it subsurface. Discharge greywater below the surface under a minimum 2″ cover of mulch, plastic shield, or stones so that its not accessible to people or pets. Theres never been a documented case of illness from graywater, but nevertheless all systems should be designed to avoid the possibility of contact or ingestion. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596507542472-B0Y61WJZTTR61W8PE47M/diy-laundry-detergent-500x500.jpg Basic Guidelines Graywater - Choose healthy products. Cleaning products effect Greywater quality and soil and plant health. Avoid products that contain Salt (all sodium compounds), Boron (borate), and Chlorine bleach (hydrogen peroxide bleach okay), which may ultimately damage the soil and make conditions inhospitable to plants and beneficial soil biology. Recommended products are Salt/boron free. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596504995806-35PXRH8JZPFCR42PV7S6/IMG_2008.JPG Basic Guidelines Graywater - Contain it onsite. Don’t let graywater overflow or runoff, keep the water on the same property it is produced from and follow the set-backs listed in the code (1.5 ft from a property line, 2 ft from a building, 100 feet from streams, lakes, or water wells). Even naturally occurring nutrients in greywater can contaminate creeks and other surface water so be sure your system has sufficient surge capacity and infiltration area to handle all the graywater you produce. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596508577779-2KWV3TKISHW4USZB5U7Z/gw+L2L+3way+gooch+diagram.png Basic Guidelines Graywater - Operation & maintenance manual . Because graywater systems are part of a buildings permanent infrastructure, there needs to be documentation to pass on important details about the system in case new owners buy the building or the system needs to be maintained. Common info to include in an O & M Manual are: •Diagrams of the system and location of components. • How and when to turn the system off and on. •Appropriate products to use • Any maintenance needed • Contact info for the installer and/or manufacturer https://www.altwater.org/low-tech-vs-high-tech-systems-graywater daily 0.75 2020-08-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596514268869-WMRUZNSR096YD6GBTHQQ/IMG_2091.jpg Low Tech vs High Tech Graywater Systems - Low-tech systems Simple and robust Low maintenance Relatively inexpensive Use passive gravity feed No supplemental electricity Some types of systems don’t require permit Use flood irrigation Best for trees and shrubs https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596582264316-S4CE64M8LJZNT7MYSY2E/IMG_1805.jpg Low Tech vs High Tech Graywater Systems - High-tech systems Can pump water uphill Works for lawns and small plants Use drip irrigation High irrigation-efficiency Able to control other freshwater or rainwater irrigation Function as a complete irrigation system for a property Permit relatively easy and straightforward https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596595861798-FLMTHCPH2C239K3HGWNL/systems+graph.jpg Low Tech vs High Tech Graywater Systems https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596598789663-I1AB4BGKAXHNFY4LTG8R/SantaRosa2018October_%2Bgreywater.jpg Low Tech vs High Tech Graywater Systems https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596647594014-L5HO4D885V8MD3JRA2OV/IMG_1045.png Low Tech vs High Tech Graywater Systems - Small plants, lawn, or complicated landscape needs a very broad and even distribution that can only be accomplished with graywater using drip irrigation. In order to pass through tiny drip emitters graywater needs to be filtered and pressurized which makes high-tech systems more complicated as filters need to be automatically self-cleaning to prevent rapid clogging. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596604487201-CNG47DKKBR4NJ7NAQ6U5/mulch%2Bbasin.001.jpg Low Tech vs High Tech Graywater Systems - Trees, shrubs or large plants work well with low-tech systems because they use flood irrigation to “mulch basins” (that contain the surge of graywater). Plants with relatively large root systems benefit from that type of concentrated distribution. Graywater requires no filtration to be used with this method which makes low-tech systems very simple and low maintenance. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596652442248-Y98W6BK5N54CH5CM3QCT/gw+basins.001.jpeg Low Tech vs High Tech Graywater Systems - Graywater flows downhill. If the area you want to irrigate is level or downhill from the elevation of your plumbing, then you can likely use a passive gravity feed to your advantage. Wastewater piping systems are designed to slope downwards continuously to prevent particles in the water from accumulating and clogging the system. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596652954917-VHWHG7IEX8TI1B4NGSWP/38347734-Graywater-Gardening%2B%2528dragged%2529.jpg Low Tech vs High Tech Graywater Systems - Greywater pumps uphill. When the only areas you can irrigate are up hill you have no choice but to use a pump. Pressurizing the graywater with a pump adds to the cost and complexity of a system, but also affords you the opportunity to pump through a filter, use drip irrigation, and measure and control flows to a greater degree. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596665285711-9WZLU08XP6LQKDRCXAI1/front%2Bklawn.001.jpg Low Tech vs High Tech Graywater Systems - Simple works Low-tech systems are reliable, save water, and have lower initial costs (≈$500 - $4,000) and low to no operating costs. The fact that they don’t rely on high-tech components and electricity to operate means they have a low environmental impact and their overall net benefit is high. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596657202608-NL361GNJ7AS6BYNRB6YJ/38347734-Graywater-Gardening%2B%2528dragged%2529%2B3.jpg Low Tech vs High Tech Graywater Systems - Complex works…sometimes Because high-tech systems are able to use drip irrigation and control the water to a high degree they have the potential to offset significant quantities of potable water use (irrigation water out of the tap), which over time could offer a high return on investment for the more substantial initial costs (≈$1,500 -$8,500) of a high-tech system. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596670189109-3MHB3HM29YBNUEYFGAU1/combo.001.jpg Low Tech vs High Tech Graywater Systems https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596668379670-3KD6MI3Z6U2HKP2RIYP5/IMG_2091.jpg Low Tech vs High Tech Graywater Systems https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596668445231-DVJD9WTJKGT0C6KQ3H59/PD1330RCW-13mm-x-30m-Grey-Water-Inline-Drip-Tube-2-680x777.jpg Low Tech vs High Tech Graywater Systems https://www.altwater.org/low-tech-graywater-sytems daily 0.75 2020-08-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596757072073-QBQ90TDWFIBOHW4Y2U50/laundry.001.jpg Low Tech Graywater Sytems - Laundry-to-Landscape system redirects graywater from the discharge hose of your washing machine through an irrigation line with outlets to mulch basins close to specific plants. Doesn’t alter existing plumbing No permit required (if guidelines are followed) Easy to install Low cost Washing machine pump provides some pressure which provides more tolerance to variations in the slope Uses 1” PVC and/or Polyethylene pipe. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596756982167-SCB9T0TGGXBG1V8G2RGZ/branched.001.jpg Low Tech Graywater Sytems - Branched drain (showers, sinks, laundry or whole house). A gravity fed passive system that diverts graywater into the landscape through a branching network of distribution pipes. Uses mulch basin irrigation Uses “flow splitter” fittings to divide flow among several outlets Typically requires a permit due to necessary alterations to existing plumbing Uses 1.5”-2” ABS or PVC-DWV pipe https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598396427731-Y5X8OSEDAIANLE9LBCHG/gw+constructed+wetland+pic.png Low Tech Graywater Sytems - Constructed Wetlands Wetland plants transpire large amounts of water (10+ gallons /day on warm days),so usually Constructed Wetlands are appropriate where there is excessive graywater and little irrigation demand or soilspace to use other infiltration system. Wetland plants remove nutrients and can help filter pollution out of wastwater and are used in large scale wastewater treatment plants as well. Gravel and other aggregate beds can ultimately suffer clogging problems/overflowing of graywater requiring replacement or flushing. Photo creditL: Greywater Action https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596760332771-R9P25RZGKCQDSTTSH4QL/3way.001.jpeg Low Tech Graywater Sytems - 3-way diverter valve Different systems use different size valves (laundry-to-landscape= 1” valve, branched drain = 2”-3” valve) but the concept of controlling the diversion is always the same. The 3-way valve allows the user to redirect flow back to the sewer or septic in case you have to wash something toxic or hazardous (ie. automotive grease, paint brushes, chemicals from home photo lab, diaper water etc.), or if seasonal weather conditions such as high groundwater or precipitation levels makes it difficult to infiltrate graywater without causing runoff (which is prohibited). The 3-way valve must be labeled and “easily accessible”. Often for branched drain systems the valve is located in a crawlspace, and is connected to a remote controlled motor called an “actuator” that allows the user to operate it from a switch located conveniently in the house. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596764399052-765ZDLWV8RUUKV8N7SQQ/outlet+in+basibn.001.jpeg Low Tech Graywater Sytems - Mulch Basin Irrigation To avoid the notorious clogging typical with unfiltered graywater, low tech systems use relatively large drain pipes (1.5”-2” diameter) and shielded outlets designed to be highly resistant to clogging. The outlets release graywater into a mulch basin, created by excavating out the soil and refilling with wood chips, gravel drain rock, or other chunky organic material providing open pore space in which the surge of graywater fills preventing it from being exposed to the surface (which is prohibited). The size of the mulch basins are determined by simple calculations based on the soil type, numbers of gallons produced per day, and the anticipated maximal surge volume anticipated. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596816375719-V64NMX5OIXKMF1AV5TGQ/flow+2.001.jpeg Low Tech Graywater Sytems - Passive flow division To be able to divide the flow of graywater among multiple outlets, low-tech systems branch apart using a passive system of division. The branched drain system uses a special fitting called a “double ell” which splits the flow approximately in half (if the flow splitter is level), and the laundry-to-landscape system uses “Tee” fittings that tap off a larger main supply line to sends fractions of the total flow to different outlets. https://www.altwater.org/introduction-to-graywater-copy daily 0.75 2020-08-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596681900962-GOIBHEKCJIEU9PVVJ7RX/percent%252Bof%252Bwater.001.jpg Introduction to Graywater https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596738509957-MDBEGGK3AH8UEENES8RN/72428203_1876320825847514_148215808101711872_o.jpg Introduction to Graywater - What are the benefits of using graywater? Lower freshwater use Saves energy used to produce, distribute, and treat water Groundwater recharge Effective water treatment occurs in biologically active soil Reduces demand on wastewater treatment plants and septic systems Connects homeowners to how much water they are using and their product choices Reliable landscape water source during drought or water shortage Facilitates local food production Returns vital nutrients to the soil. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596683009488-QCHHGIR9JEOE53RCL2E1/4318-man_washing_hands-732x549-thumbnail.jpg Introduction to Graywater - What is Graywater? (Also spelled “Greywater”) is the water that drains from showers, baths, washing machines and bathroom sinks. Unlike the wastewater from toilets and kitchen sinks which is known as blackwater, Graywater is legally allowed to be reused as long as it is distributed sub-surface and follows several other simple guidelines. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596686552772-BSZJNUH50LNJE3XTLSCO/PD1330RCW-13mm-x-30m-Grey-Water-Inline-Drip-Tube-2-680x777.png Introduction to Graywater - How can graywater be reused? Graywater can be reused for outdoor irrigation through low-tech gravity fed systems using mulch basin irrigation, or high-tech systems including tanks, pumps and drip irrigation (with proper filtration). Graywater can also be reused indoors (example: toilet flushing), though requires disinfection and currently is not allowed under California code. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596691968927-NKYG1AVEH9V9HSIX98CG/IMG_3574.jpg Introduction to Graywater - How much water can be saved? Greywater systems can reduce a household's water use by 10% to 50%, an average 14,565 gallons a year per household . A common error is to assume that all the graywater produced equates to water savings, but how much potable water-use you actually offset depends a lot on your design, the efficiency of your system and the longterm management of your sites water budget. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596727377009-0NTZS0D8MVP9ZM9Y638S/study.jpg Introduction to Graywater Study of Residential Greywater Irrigation Systems in California: Laura Allen https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596728564948-KSB78HD0VM3EXWECWP27/como-desentupir-ralo-de-banheiro-com-coca-cola.png Introduction to Graywater - Whats in Graywater? Everything that goes down the drain, including hair, lint, soap, and cleaning products (tending to be alkaline/basic). High amounts of nutrients and associated bacteria in graywater rapidly multiply under storage to turn into noxious septic blackwater, which is why graywater is never stored for more than 24 hours. Kitchen sink water (as opposed to bathroom sink water) is technically considered Blackwater in California (not legally allowed to be reused) though more specifically defined as Dark Graywater, and contains food particles and oils that offer high nutrient value but require unique considerations to be sustainably reused. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596730031455-4SBL00LKUAC0VDJ3HF4G/s-l400.jpg Introduction to Graywater - Is Graywater hazardous? There has never been a single documented case of illness from greywater, though regardless all systems should be designed to avoid the possibility for contact or ingestion. Potential environmental pollution can result if harmful chemicals in greywater enter the groundwater & surface water. Even naturally occurring nutrients in greywater can contaminate creeks and other surface water by contributing to algae growths that consume oxygen, which is why systems are designed to minimize contact, prevent ponding and runoff and contain graywater onsite. Improper designs could create a cross connection where greywater could enter potable water pipes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596731428231-6AVG7HTPIXE4R1172HVK/GraywaterDataCalcsE-GreywaterDataAndCalcs.jpg Introduction to Graywater Greywater Data and Calculations Spreadsheet. Oasis Design, 2009. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596734688310-U7CECJ1MHGCTLPYC3GJX/2.jpeg Introduction to Graywater - Is Graywater legal? Historically Graywater was required to be sent to the sewer, and reuse was illegal, even though there were tens of millions of unpermitted systems all across the country. As more and more people have realized the potential of graywater as a resource, and more attention brought to how restrictive codes can prevent the open exchange of valuable best-practice information, codes have changed and many states allow legal reuse, though graywater codes still don’t exist in many parts of the country. In California, washing machine systems that do not alter the house plumbing can be built without a construction permit so long as 12 guidelines set forth in the code are followed, and permits for simple systems are relatively easy to acquire. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596735414497-4225OK5WB8E6WX79A7G5/Emergency-Laundry-Detergent-Alternatives-hero-horizontal-178a799e64b6450db31d2ff9c37bc152.jpg Introduction to Graywater - What products should be used? Cleaning products effect Graywater quality and soil/plant health. Avoid products that contain Salt (sodium compounds), Boron (borate), and Chlorine bleach (hydrogen peroxide bleach okay). Recommended products are Salt/boron/ free. For laundry detergent some brands include Oasis, ECOS, Biopac, and others. For systems with filters its generally preferable to avoid bar soap made with thicker fats that more easily clog filters as opposed to thinner shampoos and liquid soaps. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596735809624-Q6T11L5DR9DDTAAAKR39/unnamed.jpg Introduction to Graywater Discharging graywater in close proximity (within 100 ft) to streams, lakes, or water wells is prohibited. https://www.altwater.org/laundrytolandscape-copy daily 0.75 2020-08-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597099571573-ZFWD0P4WYV3NSQ9RVRC7/L2L+diagram.001.jpeg Laundry-to-Landscape https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597122600005-IJU4Q34BWEK88QFRAMR6/Parts+diagram.001.jpeg Laundry-to-Landscape https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597193825479-P50W5BL7NUY8EEXFHFEB/gw+L2L+3way+gooch+diagram.png Laundry-to-Landscape https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597194887788-0ISJP06AQ5UQLG13NXLE/Step+1+L2L.001.jpeg Laundry-to-Landscape - 3-way diverter valve Must be mounted above the “flood rim” (top) of the washing machine with the washer discharge hose connected to the middle port. Ensure watertight connections (to avoid water-damage from leaking Graywater) by using proper tightening (se teflon tape (on threads) and glue (on slip connections) to make water-tight connections. Secure into the wall studs using pipe brackets or strapping. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597345677265-VRHAEXO31AO9HFM89ZYH/antisiphon.001.jpeg Laundry-to-Landscape - Anti-siphon Assembly Lets air into the system through a 1-way spring check valve (Autovent) to prevent a potential siphon from forming and draining the machine as it tries to refill. Any type of air-admittance valve, vent or “breather tube” will work as long as its at the high point of system and tall enough not to emit. The vent must be accessible (not contained within a wall) in case of leaks and for replacement. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597356579095-9EDSRDCSI7S8QYCMWSLQ/distribution+system.001.jpeg Laundry-to-Landscape - Distribution System Once your PVC distribution pipe exits the building (typically through a hole drilled in an exterior wall or down and out through a crawlspace) its typical to transition from 1” PVC pipe to 1” PE (Polyethylene) tubing, which is UV resistant and flexible. Tee’s off the main 1” line normally reduce down to ½” tubing that outlets the graywater into shields made from irrigation valve boxes. The shields protect the open end of the tubing from getting clogged by debris and have a removable lid facilitating access and maintenance. Take the most direct route as possible with the least amount of turns and maintain a slight downward slope or at least a level gradient, to minimize flow resistance. Because the discharge water from the laundry machine pump is slightly pressurized it can tolerate minor dips and rises in the distribution lines, unlike gravity-only systems (ie. branched drain) which must slope down continuously. Its important to NOT have every outlet in the system reduced down to ½” tubing because having at least one full 1” outlet provides a safety factor against clogging that could occur in the smaller tubing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597366592688-P9G5TWAVWVR8D4996CAE/outlet+in+basibn.001.jpeg Laundry-to-Landscape - Infiltration Basins The outlets release graywater into a mulch-filled infiltration basin, created by excavating out the soil and refilling with wood chips, gravel drain rock, or other chunky organic material providing open pore space in which the surge of graywater fills preventing it from being exposed to the surface (which is prohibited). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597517064157-6NS28K1KGR4MSJVX6TLL/estimating+gw+discharge.jpg Laundry-to-Landscape - Estimating Graywater Production Using the Code formula (1602.8.1) requires knowing the number of bedrooms in the house, which determines the number of theoretical occupants: 1st bedroom = 2 occupants Additional bedrooms = 1 occupant Add up the total occupants and then multiply the total number of occupants by the estimated graywater production per-occupant accordingly: Laundry = 15 GPD (gallons per day) per occupant Showers, bathtubs, and wash basins = 25 GPD per occupant See the example at right for a complete calculation process for a four bedroom house. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597370262415-7843J7N0SENVNEE3ENLM/Infiltration.+table.001.jpeg Laundry-to-Landscape - Sizing Infiltration Areas The area (square feet) of mulch basins needed is determined by dividing the estimated number of gallons produced per day by the soil type’s maximum absorption capacity (measured in gallons/sq2). Use Code Table 1602.10 at right for common soil types. See examples below for complete calculation for 2 different soil types with an estimated daily graywater production of 75 gpd. Coarse sand or gravel: 75 gal/day / 5 gal/ft2/day = 15 ft2 Clay w/small amounts of sand or gravel: 75 gal/day / 0.8 gal/ft2/day = 93.75 ft2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597530408237-VBK8AX3RMSY2EGD8WS5Y/Porosity.001.jpeg Laundry-to-Landscape - Surge Capacity The open pore space between the particles of wood chips, gravel drain rock, or other chunky organic material in the infiltration basins provides open space in which the surge of graywater fills preventing it from being exposed to the surface (which is prohibited). Approximately 40-60% of the volume in an infiltration basin is occupied by the refill material depending on the exact type used. By calculating the total volume of the excavation and subtracting the volume occupied by the fill material we can get a rough idea of the available surge capacity in Cubic feet and then convert that to gallons (There are 7.48 gallons in a cubic ft3). (Gallons of estimated graywater discharge per day / 7.48) / porosity (expressed as a decimal) = Cubic ft3 of infiltration basin required Ensure the available volume of the infiltration basin exceeds the calculated surge volume of the daily greywater production. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597533460908-RRL4O483AVPEXU5JUN91/labeling.001.jpeg Laundry-to-Landscape - Labeling Requirements To avoid future confusion Graywater distribution piping has to be labeled to identify it as being Non-potable water. The words “CAUTION: NONPOTABLE GRAY WATER, DO NOT DRINK” should be marked on the pipe at intervals not to exceed every 5 ft. The 3-way diverter valve in the indoor assembly of the Laundry-to-Landscape System is also required to be labeled as to which handle direction sends the graywater to sewer or landscape. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597539974818-YIVQPL7WKUBBPG3D3G50/LaGrandeLandscapeConceptmap.jpg Laundry-to-Landscape - Operation and Maintenance Manual Required info: Diagram(s) of the system and location of components Instructions on operating the system Details on start-up, shut-down, and deactivation Applicable testing, inspection and maintenance Contact info of installer/designer and component manufacturer Directions that the O&M manual needs to remain with the building for the life of the structure Other helpful info: What kinds of soaps to use A picture of the tubing before it is buried https://www.altwater.org/connecting-pvc-fittings daily 0.75 2020-08-13 https://www.altwater.org/laundry-to-landscape-copy daily 0.75 2020-08-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597543965083-JKVUZLWHP73P9Q4ATSSC/bd2.001.jpeg Branched drain https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597613875739-LFXYUPSBM03429UNSRQY/bd+parts.001.jpeg Branched drain - Required Parts Available from pool supply stores, plumbing-supply, electrical supply and hardware stores 1) 3-way diverter valve (2“ - 3” size valve)(pool supply stores) 2) 7” round valve box (Hardware stores) 3) ABS 1.5” or 2” double ell (twin 90)(plumbing-supply stores) 4) ABS 1.5” or 2” double ell (twin 90) w/inspection/cleanout port 5) 3-way valve actuator (optional)(pool supply stores) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597633119589-H1X3BN6TPKPYEHPK2WI5/Branhed+drain+3+way.001.jpeg Branched drain https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597688724089-KF7VMYLEKY4PUN8NDG8R/BD3way.001.jpeg Branched drain - 3-Way Diverter Valve Installed in the drain line downstream of traps and vents but upstream of any connection to backwater fixtures (ie. toilet) Uses 1.5”, 2” or larger drain pipe An actuator may be installed on. the valve to allow remote switching from within the house (code required if the valve is not “reasonably accessible”) A backwater valve (aka “sewer check valve”) is typically installed on the sewer side of the 3-way valve to prevent sewer water from potentially backing up into the graywater system https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597711172446-MQ4JQYA8BBEWMPPGCQL1/check+valve.001.jpeg Branched drain - Backwater Valve AKA Sewer Check Valve is usually installed on the sewer side of the 3-way valve to prevent sewer water further downstream from backing up into the greywater system. Since the 3-way valve itself shuts off the sewer connection, the backwater valve functions only if the 3-way valve is left partially open, and this component is Not required by all jurisdictions. Must be installed in the correct orientation with flow arrows pointing downstream in order to function correctly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597713514125-2MVF9DV8WBXNESRF3K45/actuator.001.jpeg Branched drain - Valve Actuator If the 3-way valve is not easily accessible (e.g. tiny crawl space) you will need to install an actuator to operate it remotely from within the house. An actuator is an electrically powered motor that turns the 3-way valve, and is connected to low voltage power and a switch placed in a convenient location. The actuator itself is available from pool supply stores and is designed to fit a particular size and brand of 3-way valve. A few other components available from electrical supply stores or hardware stores are needed to complete the actuator switch: 24 Volt transformer with screw on terminals (plugs into a wall socket and reduces power from 120 Volts to 24 Volts) A toggle-type switch A surface mount electrical box and faceplate. Wire nuts to make electrical connections within box Low-Voltage wire (12 or 14 gauge) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597695709213-AUE2C9DACLPNY0ENX7A3/identifypipes.001.jpeg Branched drain - Shower Drain Pipe Identification The first step to installing a 3 way diverter valve is to identify the correct pipes to divert. A “p-trap” (a common component of drain plumbing systems that is full of water that prevents sewer gases from entering the building) is usually visible from within the crawlspace and helps identify the shower drain line because sinks and toilets have their p-traps located under the fixture in the house. A 1 1/2”-2” pipe size (inner diameter of pipe (“ID”)) also suggests a shower line as waste water pipes are sized by the amount of water that travels through them and toilets are always a minimum of 3”-4”. A good method of confirming you have the correct pipe is to run HOT water in the drain line until you feel the pipe heat up. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597703862136-12KQ20QZHY6EME4QI782/laundry+drain.001.jpeg Branched drain - Laundry and Sinks Drain Pipe Identification Even though laundry graywater is often sent through an independent “Laundry-to-Landscape” system, it can also be sent through a branched drain or combined into a whole-house system. The drainpipe your laundry discharge hose empties into should be a 2” size and has a non-visible P-trap connected to it located inside the wall. Sink drain pipes can be as small as 1 1/4” or 1 1/2” and sometimes share vents with other fixtures or use an isolated vent such as an auto vent. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597699992751-T2TSL5UBIU2BODCRD72G/vents.001.jpeg Branched drain - Vent Pipe identification As fluid flows through a drainpipe it pushes air ahead of it and sucks air behind it. Vent pipes provide an outlet and inlet for this air and prevent a vacuum from being formed that could suck the water out of the p-trap (which is meant to stay full all the time). In order for the vent to work though it must be downstream and within a certain distance from the P-trap, known as the “critical distance”. Venting for graywater pipes can be separate from toilet vents or can tie into the toilet vent 12” above the spill point of the highest fixture served by the vent. Vent pipes are easy to confuse as drain lines when one is unfamiliar with plumbing. 3-way diverter valves should always be located downstream of P-traps & Vents, otherwise they would cut off their essential function. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597701594316-DI0GZ8PZGY04EKLTGE1C/fixtureunits.001.jpeg Branched drain - Sizing Drainpipes Drain line pipes are sized according to the number of “drainage fixture units” they carry. Each type of fixture (ie. shower, sink, toilet) has a different number of “units” assigned to it in the plumbing code. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597702308803-4NT6RRQL8XBVISZ7UNFC/max+loading.001.jpeg Branched drain - Maximum Unit Loading Add up all the units of the fixtures you want to connect to determine what size pipe is necessary. Whether the section of pipe is vertical or horizontal also determines the amount of units it can carry. The vast majority of single family home graywater systems will be fine with a 2” pipe, and only the largest systems will need a bigger size pipe. For example, a typical branched drain system may include a shower(2 units), a sink (1 unit), a bathtub(2) and a laundry (3) for a total of 8 units, which still fits in a 2” pipe but is the maximum units allowed in that pipe size. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597711720649-RRPUVT9ZXRLRQJJ6KXR7/maxresdefault.jpg Branched drain - Minimum Slope Drain pipe systems need constant proper downwards slope in order to drain correctly without clogging. Quantified slope can be expressed as a percentage, a ratio (rise over run) or an angle(degrees). “2%” slope is the industry standard recommended slope for drainpipes and is the same as saying 2ft of fall over 100 ft of run, or 1/4” per ft. The pipe can NEVER slope up again and because the deeper you release the water in the landscape, the less absorbable it is by plants, (and the less effectively treated it is by the more biologically active upper soil layers) strive to “conserve fall” as much as possible (don’t slope down any more than 2% unless you have to). Preserving fall can also often make it possible for pipes to be able to exit the house through the crawlspace vents, above the foundation wall (to avoid drilling a hole in the concrete). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597797638332-F96IAH7LA1FBX95G7C2W/gw+flowsplitter+pic+for+website.png Branched drain - Flow splitters (double ells) (aka Twin 90) Passively divide the flow in half to be able to spread out the graywater among multiple outlets. A relatively rare plumbing piece, Double Ells are only reliably available from dedicated plumbing-supply stores. In order to divide the flow evenly, the flow splitters must be level and have a 2' straight section of pipe before the splitter, because if flow enters the splitter at a sharp angle the water won't divide evenly. Double Ells can be multifunctional as clean-outs if they are installed with removable couplings or are outfitted with a clean-out plug, accomplished by drilling a 1 1/4” hole and threading in a PVC 1” threaded Plug. Preserve access for maintenance of the flow splitters by enclosing them within a lidded valve box. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597800544951-LQD1VHP4GTU1W4S40R87/BD+outlet+diagram.001.jpeg Branched drain - Outlets Release graywater from the open end of the pipe into a “shield” (valve box) within an infiltration basin (aka mulch basin), created by excavating out the soil and refilling with wood chips, gravel drain rock, or other chunky organic material providing open pore space in which the surge of graywater fills preventing it from being exposed to the surface (which is prohibited). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597801850477-LYMBNMOIVWXTYPRDJE4G/GREYWAter%2Bdischarge%2Bshowers.jpg Branched drain - Estimating Graywater Production Using the Code formula (1602.8.1) requires knowing the number of bedrooms in the house, which determines the number of theoretical occupants: 1st bedroom = 2 occupants Additional bedrooms = 1 occupant Add up the total occupants and then multiply the total number of occupants by the estimated graywater production per-occupant accordingly: Laundry = 15 GPD (gallons per day) per occupant Showers, bathtubs, and wash basins = 25 GPD per occupant See the example at right for a complete calculation process for a four bedroom house. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597370262415-7843J7N0SENVNEE3ENLM/Infiltration.+table.001.jpeg Branched drain - Sizing Infiltration Areas The area (square feet) of mulch basins needed is determined by dividing the estimated number of gallons produced per day by the soil type’s maximum absorption capacity (measured in gallons/sq2). Use Code Table 1602.10 at right for common soil types. See examples below for complete calculation for 2 different soil types with an estimated daily graywater production of 125 gpd. Coarse sand or gravel: 125 gal/day / 5 gal/ft2/day = 25 ft2 Clay w/small amounts of sand or gravel: 125 gal/day / 0.8 gal/ft2/day = 156.25 ft2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597530408237-VBK8AX3RMSY2EGD8WS5Y/Porosity.001.jpeg Branched drain - Surge Capacity The open pore space between the particles of wood chips, gravel drain rock, or other chunky organic material in the infiltration basins provides open space in which the surge of graywater fills preventing it from being exposed to the surface (which is prohibited). Approximately 40-60% of the volume in an infiltration basin is occupied by the refill material depending on the exact type used. By calculating the total volume of the excavation and subtracting the volume occupied by the fill material we can get a rough idea of the available surge capacity in Cubic feet and then convert that to gallons (There are 7.48 gallons in a cubic ft3). (Gallons of estimated graywater discharge per day / 7.48) / porosity (expressed as a decimal) = Cubic ft3 of infiltration basin required Ensure the available volume of the infiltration basin exceeds the calculated surge volume of the daily greywater production. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597533460908-RRL4O483AVPEXU5JUN91/labeling.001.jpeg Branched drain - Labeling Requirements To avoid future confusion Graywater distribution piping has to be labeled to identify it as being Non-potable water. The words “CAUTION: NONPOTABLE GRAY WATER, DO NOT DRINK” should be marked on the pipe at intervals not to exceed every 5 ft. The 3-way diverter valve in the indoor assembly of the Laundry-to-Landscape System is also required to be labeled as to which handle direction sends the graywater to sewer or landscape. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597539974818-YIVQPL7WKUBBPG3D3G50/LaGrandeLandscapeConceptmap.jpg Branched drain - Operation and Maintenance Manual Required info: Diagram(s) of the system and location of components Instructions on operating the system Details on start-up, shut-down, and deactivation Applicable testing, inspection and maintenance Contact info of installer/designer and component manufacturer Directions that the O&M manual needs to remain with the building for the life of the structure Other helpful info: What kinds of soaps to use A picture of the tubing before it is buried https://www.altwater.org/high-tech-graywater-systems-copy daily 0.75 2020-08-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598392886156-DV7BXQLNMIMW5BNYEZUK/Unfiltered+pumped.001.jpeg Drum with Efluent Pump https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598393016915-FE0F7KGS4BHY2JDTP5ZM/image26.png Drum with Efluent Pump - Drum with effluent pump This system avoids the complexities of filtration but uses a pump and pumping basin to be able to distribute the graywater uphill and longer distances. Avoiding pump zealousness and sourcing the correct strength of pump will help to minimize electrical usage. High quality pumps will last years but every Pump will need replacing with time. Usually PVC or PE pipe is used as the distribution line and a properly sized effluent pump capable of passing 3/4” solids is required. All the same requirements of tanks apply and the water is distributed to infiltration basins such as used in a low tech system. ) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597688724089-KF7VMYLEKY4PUN8NDG8R/BD3way.001.jpeg Drum with Efluent Pump - 3-Way Diverter Valve Installed in the drain line downstream of traps and vents but upstream of any connection to backwater fixtures (ie. toilet) Uses 1.5”, 2” or larger drain pipe An actuator may be installed on. the valve to allow remote switching from within the house (code required if the valve is not “reasonably accessible”) A backwater valve (aka “sewer check valve”) is typically installed on the sewer side of the 3-way valve to prevent sewer water from potentially backing up into the graywater system https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597711172446-MQ4JQYA8BBEWMPPGCQL1/check+valve.001.jpeg Drum with Efluent Pump - Backwater Valve AKA Sewer Check Valve is usually installed on the sewer side of the 3-way valve to prevent sewer water further downstream from backing up into the greywater system. Since the 3-way valve itself shuts off the sewer connection, the backwater valve functions only if the 3-way valve is left partially open, and this component is Not required by all jurisdictions. Must be installed in the correct orientation with flow arrows pointing downstream in order to function correctly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597713514125-2MVF9DV8WBXNESRF3K45/actuator.001.jpeg Drum with Efluent Pump - Valve Actuator If the 3-way valve is not easily accessible (e.g. tiny crawl space) you will need to install an actuator to operate it remotely from within the house. An actuator is an electrically powered motor that turns the 3-way valve, and is connected to low voltage power and a switch placed in a convenient location. The actuator itself is available from pool supply stores and is designed to fit a particular size and brand of 3-way valve. A few other components available from electrical supply stores or hardware stores are needed to complete the actuator switch: 24 Volt transformer with screw on terminals (plugs into a wall socket and reduces power from 120 Volts to 24 Volts) A toggle-type switch A surface mount electrical box and faceplate. Wire nuts to make electrical connections within box Low-Voltage wire (12 or 14 gauge) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597695709213-AUE2C9DACLPNY0ENX7A3/identifypipes.001.jpeg Drum with Efluent Pump - Shower Drain Pipe Identification The first step to installing a 3 way diverter valve is to identify the correct pipes to divert. A “p-trap” (a common component of drain plumbing systems that is full of water that prevents sewer gases from entering the building) is usually visible from within the crawlspace and helps identify the shower drain line because sinks and toilets have their p-traps located under the fixture in the house. A 1 1/2”-2” pipe size (inner diameter of pipe (“ID”)) also suggests a shower line as waste water pipes are sized by the amount of water that travels through them and toilets are always a minimum of 3”-4”. A good method of confirming you have the correct pipe is to run HOT water in the drain line until you feel the pipe heat up. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597703862136-12KQ20QZHY6EME4QI782/laundry+drain.001.jpeg Drum with Efluent Pump - Laundry and Sinks Drain Pipe Identification Even though laundry graywater is often sent through an independent “Laundry-to-Landscape” system, it can also be sent through a branched drain or combined into a whole-house system. The drainpipe your laundry discharge hose empties into should be a 2” size and has a non-visible P-trap connected to it located inside the wall. Sink drain pipes can be as small as 1 1/4” or 1 1/2” and sometimes share vents with other fixtures or use an isolated vent such as an auto vent. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597699992751-T2TSL5UBIU2BODCRD72G/vents.001.jpeg Drum with Efluent Pump - Vent Pipe identification As fluid flows through a drainpipe it pushes air ahead of it and sucks air behind it. Vent pipes provide an outlet and inlet for this air and prevent a vacuum from being formed that could suck the water out of the p-trap (which is meant to stay full all the time). In order for the vent to work though it must be downstream and within a certain distance from the P-trap, known as the “critical distance”. Venting for graywater pipes can be separate from toilet vents or can tie into the toilet vent 12” above the spill point of the highest fixture served by the vent. Vent pipes are easy to confuse as drain lines when one is unfamiliar with plumbing. 3-way diverter valves should always be located downstream of P-traps & Vents, otherwise they would cut off their essential function. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597701594316-DI0GZ8PZGY04EKLTGE1C/fixtureunits.001.jpeg Drum with Efluent Pump - Sizing Drainpipes Drain line pipes are sized according to the number of “drainage fixture units” they carry. Each type of fixture (ie. shower, sink, toilet) has a different number of “units” assigned to it in the plumbing code. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597702308803-4NT6RRQL8XBVISZ7UNFC/max+loading.001.jpeg Drum with Efluent Pump - Maximum Unit Loading Add up all the units of the fixtures you want to connect to determine what size pipe is necessary. Whether the section of pipe is vertical or horizontal also determines the amount of units it can carry. The vast majority of single family home graywater systems will be fine with a 2” pipe, and only the largest systems will need a bigger size pipe. For example, a typical branched drain system may include a shower(2 units), a sink (1 unit), a bathtub(2) and a laundry (3) for a total of 8 units, which still fits in a 2” pipe but is the maximum units allowed in that pipe size. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597800544951-LQD1VHP4GTU1W4S40R87/BD+outlet+diagram.001.jpeg Drum with Efluent Pump - Outlets Release graywater from the open end of the pipe into a “shield” (valve box) within an infiltration basin (aka mulch basin), created by excavating out the soil and refilling with wood chips, gravel drain rock, or other chunky organic material providing open pore space in which the surge of graywater fills preventing it from being exposed to the surface (which is prohibited). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597801850477-LYMBNMOIVWXTYPRDJE4G/GREYWAter%2Bdischarge%2Bshowers.jpg Drum with Efluent Pump - Estimating Graywater Production Using the Code formula (1602.8.1) requires knowing the number of bedrooms in the house, which determines the number of theoretical occupants: 1st bedroom = 2 occupants Additional bedrooms = 1 occupant Add up the total occupants and then multiply the total number of occupants by the estimated graywater production per-occupant accordingly: Laundry = 15 GPD (gallons per day) per occupant Showers, bathtubs, and wash basins = 25 GPD per occupant See the example at right for a complete calculation process for a four bedroom house. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597370262415-7843J7N0SENVNEE3ENLM/Infiltration.+table.001.jpeg Drum with Efluent Pump - Sizing Infiltration Areas The area (square feet) of mulch basins needed is determined by dividing the estimated number of gallons produced per day by the soil type’s maximum absorption capacity (measured in gallons/sq2). Use Code Table 1602.10 at right for common soil types. See examples below for complete calculation for 2 different soil types with an estimated daily graywater production of 125 gpd. Coarse sand or gravel: 125 gal/day / 5 gal/ft2/day = 25 ft2 Clay w/small amounts of sand or gravel: 125 gal/day / 0.8 gal/ft2/day = 156.25 ft2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597530408237-VBK8AX3RMSY2EGD8WS5Y/Porosity.001.jpeg Drum with Efluent Pump - Surge Capacity The open pore space between the particles of wood chips, gravel drain rock, or other chunky organic material in the infiltration basins provides open space in which the surge of graywater fills preventing it from being exposed to the surface (which is prohibited). Approximately 40-60% of the volume in an infiltration basin is occupied by the refill material depending on the exact type used. By calculating the total volume of the excavation and subtracting the volume occupied by the fill material we can get a rough idea of the available surge capacity in Cubic feet and then convert that to gallons (There are 7.48 gallons in a cubic ft3). (Gallons of estimated graywater discharge per day / 7.48) / porosity (expressed as a decimal) = Cubic ft3 of infiltration basin required Ensure the available volume of the infiltration basin exceeds the calculated surge volume of the daily greywater production. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597533460908-RRL4O483AVPEXU5JUN91/labeling.001.jpeg Drum with Efluent Pump - Labeling Requirements To avoid future confusion Graywater distribution piping has to be labeled to identify it as being Non-potable water. The words “CAUTION: NONPOTABLE GRAY WATER, DO NOT DRINK” should be marked on the pipe at intervals not to exceed every 5 ft. The 3-way diverter valve in the indoor assembly of the Laundry-to-Landscape System is also required to be labeled as to which handle direction sends the graywater to sewer or landscape. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597539974818-YIVQPL7WKUBBPG3D3G50/LaGrandeLandscapeConceptmap.jpg Drum with Efluent Pump - Operation and Maintenance Manual Required info: Diagram(s) of the system and location of components Instructions on operating the system Details on start-up, shut-down, and deactivation Applicable testing, inspection and maintenance Contact info of installer/designer and component manufacturer Directions that the O&M manual needs to remain with the building for the life of the structure Other helpful info: What kinds of soaps to use A picture of the tubing before it is buried https://www.altwater.org/filtered-to-drip-irrigation-high-tech-graywater-systems-copy-copy daily 0.75 2020-08-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597874317441-B9ITOQRQKWGRQO0921U3/gw+sand+filter..png High Tech Systems https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597883502066-XC8JYY18JNFG8NZFW5YO/high+tech+diagram.001.jpeg High Tech Systems - Filtered-to-Drip Irrigation In order to pass through tiny drip emitters graywater needs to be filtered and pressurized. Filters need to be automatically self-cleaning to prevent rapid clogging. Through using drip irrigation and automatic controls, Filtered-to-Drip Graywater Systems have the potential to offset significant quantities of potable water use. Turfgrass lawns and other small plants need a very broad and even distribution that can only be accomplished with graywater using drip irrigation. Many high tech designs utilize “Make-up water” (usually freshwater or rainwater) to supplement the Graywater supply or flush the filter, and are required to have a Backflow Prevention Device to protect the source supply from contamination that could occur from graywater back flowing into the potable water system. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597950025956-123T272EN2KASJUAVDTQ/Unfiltered+pumped.001.jpeg High Tech Systems - Pumped Unfiltered to Basins A simple pumped system can send water uphill and long distances depending on pump size. The complications of self-cleaning filters are avoided using simple distribution to infiltration basins. Sizing the pump correctly is crucial as an oversized pump will waste electricity but an undersized pump will not produce enough pressure to reach the areas needed. Surge tank Effluent pump able to handle 3/4” solids Overflow in case of pump failure Swing check valve on outlet pipe 1” PE tubing distribution system Shielded outlets to infiltration basins https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597950747290-SEYEDIS97Z8N7HKM55GJ/pump%2Bsystem.001.jpg High Tech Systems - Pumping Basin (aka surge tank or surge basin) Graywater is collected into a pumping basin but the system needs to be designed to empty at least every day because its prohibited to store greywater for more than 24 hours ( high amounts of nutrients and suspended solids and bacteria in graywater rapidly multiply under storage to turn into noxious septic blackwater). Other Code Requirements for pumping basins: Watertight Made of solid, durable material Vented Sealed against vermin Access opening for cleaning Labeled with capacity, and "GRAY WATER SYSTEM, CAUTION- UNSAFE WATER" Passive overflow drain to the sewer (same size as inlet pipe) with a backwater valve (sewer check valve) Unions on piping to tank If underground, lids must withstand 300 pounds per square foot Install on 3” thick concrete slab or compacted baserock foundation. 1/16” screens on all vents, inlets, and overflow pipes Designed to minimize time graywater is held in tank Designed to distribute estimated amount of graywater on a daily basis see Code 1602.8.3 for additional details https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597960626397-SWF9VOB6YY4MUWJP5KQF/Effluent+pump.001.jpeg High Tech Systems - Effluent Pump Rated to pass 3/4” solids Pumps are different sizes (horsepower) depending on the distance and height you have to reach Inline float switch attached to the pump activates pump as soon as basin fills with Graywater submersible Vortex impeller or similar technology approved for sewage effluent Dirty water submersible pumps are designed to pump soft solids up to 1 1/2" or more in size with little to no filtration required before the pump Include a check valve (alllows one-way flow only) to prevent Backflow into the basin. A course mesh hair catch filter bag recommended be installed at the inlet into the basin, designed such that even after clogging it does not impede the passage of graywater into the basin. Include Unions ( a plumbing coupling designed to be easily removable)to allow for easy removal and maintenance of the pump Power for pump typically supplied by an existing plug-in 120 V GFCI outlet (cutting the plug off the end of the pump cord (for hard wiring) will void the pump warranty) Electricity use of a 660 Watt pump (running for 1/2 hour per day in a typical 4-person household), would be an actual use of 450 Watts during operation, for a total daily power usage of 0.25 kilowatt hours which represents 0.6% of the average home power consumption. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597967596668-FESY5BQXA419V0GEO30P/disc%2Bfilter.jpg High Tech Systems - Self-Cleaning Filters (Vary widely according to design) Graywater is pumped through an automated self cleaning “Disc filter” containing a stack of discs each with a series of microscopic grooves whose dimension determines the effective mesh size of the filter, ranging from 40 to 600 mesh. Graywater is filtered as it flows through the disc grooves, which contain up 100x the surface area of a screen filter, but nonetheless clog readily and thus require a self-cleaning mechanism that shifts from normal filtration flow to backwash by reversing flow direction. Triggering the backwash cycle can be done through the use of pressure sensors upstream and downstream of the filter that measure the pressure differential (pressure loss) across the filter (Which increases as the filter becomes clogged), or through the use of timers that flush the filter on a regular interval. Filter backwash water is usually provided by a pressurized feed from municipal water, with cross connection prevention provided by a code-compliant, Reduced Pressure Principal-type double-check valve Backflow prevention device. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597973663950-SMCS3YFMMWMZPTS57Y1A/Sub-surface+drip.001.jpeg High Tech Systems - Sub-Surface Drip After filtration graywater is distributed to the landscape via a 1” supply line(PVC or PE) connected to 1/2” dripplerlines with built-in “in-line” drip emitters. High amounts of suspended solids (i.e.dissolved detergents, dirt) and bacteria in unfiltered graywater quickly clog traditional drip emitters so use emitters specially designed to resist root intrusion and irrigate with waste water. Dripperlines are laid on or under the soil surface, covered by 2” of mulch (aka sub-mulch) or soil (aka sub-soil), with the spacing between lines determined by the soil type and plant material. Very low flow dripper zones may release graywater slower than it is being generated, causing the water level in the pumping basin to build up and overflow to the sewer. While very high flow dripper zones may require more water to pressurize the dripperline than the volume of graywater normally generated in a typical house at any time. Optimal zone size generally ranges from 500 to 1000 square feet and should be divided according to geography of the site and water requirements of plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598389700416-SZ614HZLO9K7YE6FV3J0/bfpd.001.jpeg High Tech Systems - Backflow Prevention Device Backflow prevention devices ensure water quality by preventing contamination of the potable (drinking) water supply due to back-pressure or back-siphonage of graywater into the municipal system. Local regulations vary as to acceptable backflow standards but generally speaking the Reduced pressure (RP) backflow device ( RP valve) is the most reliable backflow prevention device and can protect against both back- pressure and back-siphonage. Above ground installation is required with concrete stabilization and a minimum 12-inch gap between the relief valve and finished grade to allow the RP to discharge water when a back-siphon situation occurs. Backflow preventer devices are legally required to be inspected annually by a certified backflow inspector. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598389927099-R8JSFCYPEKVNIJKTRRHL/image40.jpg High Tech Systems - Smart Controllers Typical functions for a controller include opening and closing solenoid valves, managing filter backwash cycles, water budgeting according to zone characteristics and changing weather conditions. The chief challenge with controlling greywater is that the supply is not always reliably there at a predictable time. The controller must be able to sense when the basin is full of water and then determine the correct zone to irrigate. Smart Controllers are able to self-adjust according to changing weather conditions, and seasonally changing evapotranspiration rates, usually based on realtime ET (evapotranspiration) values taken from active weatherstations, historical climate data for the appropriate CIMIS zone location, and/or soil moisture sensors. Some systems use a water meter that measures all graywater and alternate water that is distributed to each zone. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598390942936-1P8IBFGOMYG1CDFPD22C/IMG_8616.jpg High Tech Systems - Make-up water refers to the supplementary water (usually freshwater) that is distributed through the greywater system to cover any irrigation requirement not fulfilled by the amount of greywater produced. Make-up water can be added to the pumping basin through an “air gap” situation or can is allowed to be directly connected to the graywater system (allowed in some jurisdictions) if protected by an approved RPZ Backflow Prevention Device. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598391508274-2K4EGNMW5CEJ4M61OICB/IMG_0950.jpg High Tech Systems - Designing and Calculating Drip Zone Flows Greywater drip zones are usually designed to irrigate at approximately the maximum flow rate that graywater is being produced into basin, which avoids ever losing water through over flow. Theoretically if multiple fixtures in a whole house system were being used at the same time (i.e. 2 people showering @ 2.5 gpm + Laundry machine (2.5)and sink(2.5)) then producing 10 gpm is a good rough estimate of the maximum theoretical rate of production. To determine the flow rate of a drip zone, add up the total linear feet of dripper line and multiply by the flow rate of the drip emitter which is measured in gallons per hour, and divide by 60 (minutes in a hour) to get the flow rate in gallons per minute: (i.e. 300 ft x 2 gph emitters =600 gph/60 = 10 gpm. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598391736020-IDSIX0XZXFET66ITBCO4/image31.png High Tech Systems - Avoiding manually cleaned filters High amounts of dissolved solids, nutrients and associated bacteria in graywater rapidly clog filters such that relying on manually cleaning a filter is NEVER recommended. Abandonment of greywater systems due to filter & maintenance failure is the inevitable situation occurring with manually cleaned filter systems. All successful filter systems are automatically self-cleaning and regardless tend to require the most troubleshooting of any part of the system. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597539974818-YIVQPL7WKUBBPG3D3G50/LaGrandeLandscapeConceptmap.jpg High Tech Systems - Operation and Maintenance Manual Required info: Diagram(s) of the system and location of components Instructions on operating the system Details on start-up, shut-down, and deactivation Applicable testing, inspection and maintenance Contact info of installer/designer and component manufacturer Directions that the O&M manual needs to remain with the building for the life of the structure Other helpful info: What kinds of soaps to use A picture of the tubing before it is buried https://www.altwater.org/take-action daily 0.75 2020-08-25 https://www.altwater.org/filteredtodrip-irrigation-greywater-systems daily 0.75 2020-08-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597874317441-B9ITOQRQKWGRQO0921U3/gw+sand+filter..png Filtered-to-Drip Irrigation Greywater Systems https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597883502066-XC8JYY18JNFG8NZFW5YO/high+tech+diagram.001.jpeg Filtered-to-Drip Irrigation Greywater Systems - Filtered-to-Drip Irrigation In order to pass through tiny drip emitters graywater needs to be filtered and pressurized. Filters need to be automatically self-cleaning to prevent rapid clogging. Through using drip irrigation and automatic controls, Filtered-to-Drip Graywater Systems have the potential to offset significant quantities of potable water use. Turfgrass lawns and other small plants need a very broad and even distribution that can only be accomplished with graywater using drip irrigation. Many high tech designs utilize “Make-up water” (usually freshwater or rainwater) to supplement the Graywater supply or flush the filter, and are required to have a Backflow Prevention Device to protect the source supply from contamination that could occur from graywater back flowing into the potable water system. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597950747290-SEYEDIS97Z8N7HKM55GJ/pump%2Bsystem.001.jpg Filtered-to-Drip Irrigation Greywater Systems - Pumping Basin (aka surge tank or surge basin) Graywater is collected into a pumping basin but the system needs to be designed to empty at least every day because its prohibited to store greywater for more than 24 hours ( high amounts of nutrients and suspended solids and bacteria in graywater rapidly multiply under storage to turn into noxious septic blackwater). Other Code Requirements for pumping basins: Watertight Made of solid, durable material Vented Sealed against vermin Access opening for cleaning Labeled with capacity, and "GRAY WATER SYSTEM, CAUTION- UNSAFE WATER" Passive overflow drain to the sewer (same size as inlet pipe) with a backwater valve (sewer check valve) Unions on piping to tank If underground, lids must withstand 300 pounds per square foot Install on 3” thick concrete slab or compacted baserock foundation. 1/16” screens on all vents, inlets, and overflow pipes Designed to minimize time graywater is held in tank Designed to distribute estimated amount of graywater on a daily basis see Code 1602.8.3 for additional details https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597960626397-SWF9VOB6YY4MUWJP5KQF/Effluent+pump.001.jpeg Filtered-to-Drip Irrigation Greywater Systems - Effluent Pump Rated to pass 3/4” solids Pumps are different sizes (horsepower) depending on the distance and height you have to reach Inline float switch attached to the pump activates pump as soon as basin fills with Graywater submersible Vortex impeller or similar technology approved for sewage effluent Dirty water submersible pumps are designed to pump soft solids up to 1 1/2" or more in size with little to no filtration required before the pump Include a check valve (alllows one-way flow only) to prevent Backflow into the basin. A course mesh hair catch filter bag recommended be installed at the inlet into the basin, designed such that even after clogging it does not impede the passage of graywater into the basin. Include Unions ( a plumbing coupling designed to be easily removable)to allow for easy removal and maintenance of the pump Power for pump typically supplied by an existing plug-in 120 V GFCI outlet (cutting the plug off the end of the pump cord (for hard wiring) will void the pump warranty) Electricity use of a 660 Watt pump (running for 1/2 hour per day in a typical 4-person household), would be an actual use of 450 Watts during operation, for a total daily power usage of 0.25 kilowatt hours which represents 0.6% of the average home power consumption. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597967596668-FESY5BQXA419V0GEO30P/disc%2Bfilter.jpg Filtered-to-Drip Irrigation Greywater Systems - Self-Cleaning Filters (Vary widely according to design) Graywater is pumped through an automated self cleaning “Disc filter” containing a stack of discs each with a series of microscopic grooves whose dimension determines the effective mesh size of the filter, ranging from 40 to 600 mesh. Graywater is filtered as it flows through the disc grooves, which contain up 100x the surface area of a screen filter, but nonetheless clog readily and thus require a self-cleaning mechanism that shifts from normal filtration flow to backwash by reversing flow direction. Triggering the backwash cycle can be done through the use of pressure sensors upstream and downstream of the filter that measure the pressure differential (pressure loss) across the filter (Which increases as the filter becomes clogged), or through the use of timers that flush the filter on a regular interval. Filter backwash water is usually provided by a pressurized feed from municipal water, with cross connection prevention provided by a code-compliant, Reduced Pressure Principal-type double-check valve Backflow prevention device. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597973663950-SMCS3YFMMWMZPTS57Y1A/Sub-surface+drip.001.jpeg Filtered-to-Drip Irrigation Greywater Systems - Sub-Surface Drip After filtration graywater is distributed to the landscape via a 1” supply line(PVC or PE) connected to 1/2” dripplerlines with built-in “in-line” drip emitters. High amounts of suspended solids (i.e.dissolved detergents, dirt) and bacteria in unfiltered graywater quickly clog traditional drip emitters so use emitters specially designed to resist root intrusion and irrigate with waste water. Dripperlines are laid on or under the soil surface, covered by 2” of mulch (aka sub-mulch) or soil (aka sub-soil), with the spacing between lines determined by the soil type and plant material. Very low flow dripper zones may release graywater slower than it is being generated, causing the water level in the pumping basin to build up and overflow to the sewer. While very high flow dripper zones may require more water to pressurize the dripperline than the volume of graywater normally generated in a typical house at any time. Optimal zone size generally ranges from 500 to 1000 square feet and should be divided according to geography of the site and water requirements of plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598389700416-SZ614HZLO9K7YE6FV3J0/bfpd.001.jpeg Filtered-to-Drip Irrigation Greywater Systems - Backflow Prevention Device Backflow prevention devices ensure water quality by preventing contamination of the potable (drinking) water supply due to back-pressure or back-siphonage of graywater into the municipal system. Local regulations vary as to acceptable backflow standards but generally speaking the Reduced pressure (RP) backflow device ( RP valve) is the most reliable backflow prevention device and can protect against both back- pressure and back-siphonage. Above ground installation is required with concrete stabilization and a minimum 12-inch gap between the relief valve and finished grade to allow the RP to discharge water when a back-siphon situation occurs. Backflow preventer devices are legally required to be inspected annually by a certified backflow inspector. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598389927099-R8JSFCYPEKVNIJKTRRHL/image40.jpg Filtered-to-Drip Irrigation Greywater Systems - Smart Controllers Typical functions for a controller include opening and closing solenoid valves, managing filter backwash cycles, water budgeting according to zone characteristics and changing weather conditions. The chief challenge with controlling greywater is that the supply is not always reliably there at a predictable time. The controller must be able to sense when the basin is full of water and then determine the correct zone to irrigate. Smart Controllers are able to self-adjust according to changing weather conditions, and seasonally changing evapotranspiration rates, usually based on realtime ET (evapotranspiration) values taken from active weatherstations, historical climate data for the appropriate CIMIS zone location, and/or soil moisture sensors. Some systems use a water meter that measures all graywater and alternate water that is distributed to each zone. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598390942936-1P8IBFGOMYG1CDFPD22C/IMG_8616.jpg Filtered-to-Drip Irrigation Greywater Systems - Make-up water refers to the supplementary water (usually freshwater) that is distributed through the greywater system to cover any irrigation requirement not fulfilled by the amount of greywater produced. Make-up water can be added to the pumping basin through an “air gap” situation or can is allowed to be directly connected to the graywater system (allowed in some jurisdictions) if protected by an approved RPZ Backflow Prevention Device. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598391508274-2K4EGNMW5CEJ4M61OICB/IMG_0950.jpg Filtered-to-Drip Irrigation Greywater Systems - Designing and Calculating Drip Zone Flows Greywater drip zones are usually designed to irrigate at approximately the maximum flow rate that graywater is being produced into basin, which avoids ever losing water through over flow. Theoretically if multiple fixtures in a whole house system were being used at the same time (i.e. 2 people showering @ 2.5 gpm + Laundry machine (2.5)and sink(2.5)) then producing 10 gpm is a good rough estimate of the maximum theoretical rate of production. To determine the flow rate of a drip zone, add up the total linear feet of dripper line and multiply by the flow rate of the drip emitter which is measured in gallons per hour, and divide by 60 (minutes in a hour) to get the flow rate in gallons per minute: (i.e. 300 ft x 2 gph emitters =600 gph/60 = 10 gpm. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598391736020-IDSIX0XZXFET66ITBCO4/image31.png Filtered-to-Drip Irrigation Greywater Systems - Avoiding manually cleaned filters High amounts of dissolved solids, nutrients and associated bacteria in graywater rapidly clog filters such that relying on manually cleaning a filter is NEVER recommended. Abandonment of greywater systems due to filter & maintenance failure is the inevitable situation occurring with manually cleaned filter systems. All successful filter systems are automatically self-cleaning and regardless tend to require the most troubleshooting of any part of the system. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597539974818-YIVQPL7WKUBBPG3D3G50/LaGrandeLandscapeConceptmap.jpg Filtered-to-Drip Irrigation Greywater Systems - Operation and Maintenance Manual Required info: Diagram(s) of the system and location of components Instructions on operating the system Details on start-up, shut-down, and deactivation Applicable testing, inspection and maintenance Contact info of installer/designer and component manufacturer Directions that the O&M manual needs to remain with the building for the life of the structure Other helpful info: What kinds of soaps to use A picture of the tubing before it is buried https://www.altwater.org/graywater-information-2 daily 0.75 2020-08-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596431876762-ACTU6B54E3BIZNN5H5MO/watersavings-month-2.jpg GRAYWATER INFORMATION 2 Basic info about Graywater https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596437379157-AN55WTGT9BP8IKL5R9GO/P1060916.jpg GRAYWATER INFORMATION 2 • Choosing the right system. • Pros and cons of different designs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596432398315-ITNFC6YG3F1B1LKBHWBQ/IMG_1370%2B%25281%2529.jpg GRAYWATER INFORMATION 2 Key points to designing a legal and effective system. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596433959214-3VC7RKTSMJQGAEM0EZM3/IMG_0091.jpg GRAYWATER INFORMATION 2 •Low-tech gravity fed • Branched Drain • Whole house systems https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596433602400-L3B0CSZOF32LO40GSEJ4/IMG_1199.jpg GRAYWATER INFORMATION 2 • Landscape direct systems • Laundry 2 Landscape • Laundry Drum system https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596435248555-GIVBP9P120U52476OLDT/IMG_3567.jpg GRAYWATER INFORMATION 2 • Wood chip bio-filters • Experimental designs • (NOT LEGAL IN CALIFORNIA) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596436188192-Z6OMHPSFXYH3DQH04J0M/IMG_8160.jpg GRAYWATER INFORMATION 2 • Indoor reuse (example: toilet flushing) • Required filtration and disinfecion • Currently not allowed under California code. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596435929134-Q16ORODYT5TP1KCJK8HW/clogged%2Bpump.jpg GRAYWATER INFORMATION 2 • Preferred practices • Learning from failed systems https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596435350350-A578MRR1SB4KQNC0RV8M/gw%2Bconstructed%2Bwetland%2Bpic.jpg GRAYWATER INFORMATION 2 • Disposal Systems for small sites Photo credit: Graywater Action https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596472378918-4BIEQ3PJPSBR2DE94KHF/IMG_1341%2B%25281%2529.jpg GRAYWATER INFORMATION 2 • Filtered to drip irrigation • Pumped unfiltered https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596471880351-F50VC5FF27HLJC1DR6CF/tree%2Bfottprint.001.jpg GRAYWATER INFORMATION 2 • Calculating minimum infiltration areas • Soil types and their effect on system sizing • Plant water requirements https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596472900038-M1SRF02ZZXMW1L3Z9AXZ/pump%2Bsystem.001.jpg GRAYWATER INFORMATION 2 • Code requirements • Inflow, Overflow, Drain, Vent • Pump types and sizing https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596473641022-XBGZQ147AHTKF5ZC1P9V/hqdefault.jpg GRAYWATER INFORMATION 2 • Unique challenges of Graywater filtration • Disc media and screen Filters • Self-Cleaning Filters • Natural Filtration in soil • Other & Experimental filter designs https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596475378189-53D6KZ8OLM918U57BCGU/PD1330RCW-13mm-x-30m-Grey-Water-Inline-Drip-Tube-2-680x777.jpg GRAYWATER INFORMATION 2 • Compatability with different emitters, valves • Efficiency vs passive low tech • Necessarry Filtration https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596474923019-NNJF6E7S4H4C7HCFUAA8/IMG_1338.jpg GRAYWATER INFORMATION 2 • Integrating with Irrigation controllers • Smart Controllers • Pump start relays https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596477736316-90L3ZT1V5N8BDZU3K4ED/evaluating%2Blandscapes.001.jpg GRAYWATER INFORMATION 2 • Minimum space requirements • Accessibility of drainpipes • Proximity to surface water/wells • Path of piping to irrigation area • Flexibility with product selection https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596478198212-TJXR1F8D2MA6IVRSYH1W/plumbing%2Baccess.001.jpg GRAYWATER INFORMATION 2 • General Plumbing Principles • Slope and gravity flow • Traps and vents • Pipe sizing per fixture units • Required Parts and tools https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596477297183-SO56FFC4H292COYCPABW/IMG_3299.jpg GRAYWATER INFORMATION 2 • Which systems require a Permit • Legal Requirements for systems • Required Setbacks • Sample Permit Submissions https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596485201595-P0B36VV8ZNY4AA74O2C6/89ec088e96844f8ea9767db3dee7e65b.jpg GRAYWATER INFORMATION 2 •Training Programs and Certifications •Apprenticeship Opportunities •Required License(s) •Starting your own Graywater business •DIY Systems, Owner/Builder Permits https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596485548835-RCE7AJTGQVRCENWACXZA/IMG_2866%2B%25281%2529.jpg GRAYWATER INFORMATION 2 •Web Listings of Certified Installers •ALT Water installations •Related trades and contractors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596484694430-4IPW0HSVRGYW8KTNXX3S/GettyImages-492644377-59ee1eecd963ac0010c5df47.jpg GRAYWATER INFORMATION 2 • simple designs have a lower initial and operating costs •More complex designs may offset more potable water use/cost buthhave operational costs •Are water savings sufficient to justify the proposed system? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596486923127-D7PQ7Z6MGUA44X2QJHKS/L2LdvdArt2.0d.jpg GRAYWATER INFORMATION 2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596487557787-WPKAJQWUNY1EI5VLLHVV/20170722_125022_HDR.jpg GRAYWATER INFORMATION 2 • Free educational webinars •Training webinars •Upcoming classes and presntations https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596487073470-BBLZ0S0ESEA7G1M62IY0/water-08-00264-g002.jpg GRAYWATER INFORMATION 2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596487628121-2O6PX4J46S0AG9PQTDE9/QWEL%2B-%2BClass%2B1%2B2012.jpg GRAYWATER INFORMATION 2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596487970545-28NB2GFUWUK1SURB4ZFX/2529024.jpg GRAYWATER INFORMATION 2 •Guidelines for dual plumbing and stub-outs •Landscape layout and piping considerations <a href='https://www.freepik.com/photos/business'>Business photo created by freepik - www.freepik.com</a> https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596487311435-FJV16KUG3W1RVNP6BESR/IMG_8185.jpg GRAYWATER INFORMATION 2 https://www.altwater.org/kitchen-sink-graywater-systems daily 0.75 2020-08-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597613875739-LFXYUPSBM03429UNSRQY/bd+parts.001.jpeg Kitchen Sink Graywater Systems - Required Parts Available from pool supply stores, plumbing-supply, electrical supply and hardware stores 1) 3-way diverter valve (2“ - 3” size valve)(pool supply stores) 2) 7” round valve box (Hardware stores) 3) ABS 1.5” or 2” double ell (twin 90)(plumbing-supply stores) 4) ABS 1.5” or 2” double ell (twin 90) w/inspection/cleanout port 5) 3-way valve actuator (optional)(pool supply stores) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597633119589-H1X3BN6TPKPYEHPK2WI5/Branhed+drain+3+way.001.jpeg Kitchen Sink Graywater Systems https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597688724089-KF7VMYLEKY4PUN8NDG8R/BD3way.001.jpeg Kitchen Sink Graywater Systems - 3-Way Diverter Valve Installed in the drain line downstream of traps and vents but upstream of any connection to backwater fixtures (ie. toilet) Uses 1.5”, 2” or larger drain pipe An actuator may be installed on. the valve to allow remote switching from within the house (code required if the valve is not “reasonably accessible”) A backwater valve (aka “sewer check valve”) is typically installed on the sewer side of the 3-way valve to prevent sewer water from potentially backing up into the graywater system https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597711172446-MQ4JQYA8BBEWMPPGCQL1/check+valve.001.jpeg Kitchen Sink Graywater Systems - Backwater Valve AKA Sewer Check Valve is usually installed on the sewer side of the 3-way valve to prevent sewer water further downstream from backing up into the greywater system. Since the 3-way valve itself shuts off the sewer connection, the backwater valve functions only if the 3-way valve is left partially open, and this component is Not required by all jurisdictions. Must be installed in the correct orientation with flow arrows pointing downstream in order to function correctly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597713514125-2MVF9DV8WBXNESRF3K45/actuator.001.jpeg Kitchen Sink Graywater Systems - Valve Actuator If the 3-way valve is not easily accessible (e.g. tiny crawl space) you will need to install an actuator to operate it remotely from within the house. An actuator is an electrically powered motor that turns the 3-way valve, and is connected to low voltage power and a switch placed in a convenient location. The actuator itself is available from pool supply stores and is designed to fit a particular size and brand of 3-way valve. A few other components available from electrical supply stores or hardware stores are needed to complete the actuator switch: 24 Volt transformer with screw on terminals (plugs into a wall socket and reduces power from 120 Volts to 24 Volts) A toggle-type switch A surface mount electrical box and faceplate. Wire nuts to make electrical connections within box Low-Voltage wire (12 or 14 gauge) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597699992751-T2TSL5UBIU2BODCRD72G/vents.001.jpeg Kitchen Sink Graywater Systems - Vent Pipe identification As fluid flows through a drainpipe it pushes air ahead of it and sucks air behind it. Vent pipes provide an outlet and inlet for this air and prevent a vacuum from being formed that could suck the water out of the p-trap (which is meant to stay full all the time). In order for the vent to work though it must be downstream and within a certain distance from the P-trap, known as the “critical distance”. Venting for graywater pipes can be separate from toilet vents or can tie into the toilet vent 12” above the spill point of the highest fixture served by the vent. Vent pipes are easy to confuse as drain lines when one is unfamiliar with plumbing. 3-way diverter valves should always be located downstream of P-traps & Vents, otherwise they would cut off their essential function. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597701594316-DI0GZ8PZGY04EKLTGE1C/fixtureunits.001.jpeg Kitchen Sink Graywater Systems - Sizing Drainpipes Drain line pipes are sized according to the number of “drainage fixture units” they carry. Each type of fixture (ie. shower, sink, toilet) has a different number of “units” assigned to it in the plumbing code. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597702308803-4NT6RRQL8XBVISZ7UNFC/max+loading.001.jpeg Kitchen Sink Graywater Systems - Maximum Unit Loading Add up all the units of the fixtures you want to connect to determine what size pipe is necessary. Whether the section of pipe is vertical or horizontal also determines the amount of units it can carry. The vast majority of single family home graywater systems will be fine with a 2” pipe, and only the largest systems will need a bigger size pipe. For example, a typical branched drain system may include a shower(2 units), a sink (1 unit), a bathtub(2) and a laundry (3) for a total of 8 units, which still fits in a 2” pipe but is the maximum units allowed in that pipe size. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597711720649-RRPUVT9ZXRLRQJJ6KXR7/maxresdefault.jpg Kitchen Sink Graywater Systems - Minimum Slope Drain pipe systems need constant proper downwards slope in order to drain correctly without clogging. Quantified slope can be expressed as a percentage, a ratio (rise over run) or an angle(degrees). “2%” slope is the industry standard recommended slope for drainpipes and is the same as saying 2ft of fall over 100 ft of run, or 1/4” per ft. The pipe can NEVER slope up again and because the deeper you release the water in the landscape, the less absorbable it is by plants, (and the less effectively treated it is by the more biologically active upper soil layers) strive to “conserve fall” as much as possible (don’t slope down any more than 2% unless you have to). Preserving fall can also often make it possible for pipes to be able to exit the house through the crawlspace vents, above the foundation wall (to avoid drilling a hole in the concrete). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597797638332-F96IAH7LA1FBX95G7C2W/gw+flowsplitter+pic+for+website.png Kitchen Sink Graywater Systems - Flow splitters (double ells) (aka Twin 90) Passively divide the flow in half to be able to spread out the graywater among multiple outlets. A relatively rare plumbing piece, Double Ells are only reliably available from dedicated plumbing-supply stores. In order to divide the flow evenly, the flow splitters must be level and have a 2' straight section of pipe before the splitter, because if flow enters the splitter at a sharp angle the water won't divide evenly. Double Ells can be multifunctional as clean-outs if they are installed with removable couplings or are outfitted with a clean-out plug, accomplished by drilling a 1 1/4” hole and threading in a PVC 1” threaded Plug. Preserve access for maintenance of the flow splitters by enclosing them within a lidded valve box. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597800544951-LQD1VHP4GTU1W4S40R87/BD+outlet+diagram.001.jpeg Kitchen Sink Graywater Systems - Outlets Release graywater from the open end of the pipe into a “shield” (valve box) within an infiltration basin (aka mulch basin), created by excavating out the soil and refilling with wood chips, gravel drain rock, or other chunky organic material providing open pore space in which the surge of graywater fills preventing it from being exposed to the surface (which is prohibited). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597801850477-LYMBNMOIVWXTYPRDJE4G/GREYWAter%2Bdischarge%2Bshowers.jpg Kitchen Sink Graywater Systems - Estimating Graywater Production Using the Code formula (1602.8.1) requires knowing the number of bedrooms in the house, which determines the number of theoretical occupants: 1st bedroom = 2 occupants Additional bedrooms = 1 occupant Add up the total occupants and then multiply the total number of occupants by the estimated graywater production per-occupant accordingly: Laundry = 15 GPD (gallons per day) per occupant Showers, bathtubs, and wash basins = 25 GPD per occupant See the example at right for a complete calculation process for a four bedroom house. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597370262415-7843J7N0SENVNEE3ENLM/Infiltration.+table.001.jpeg Kitchen Sink Graywater Systems - Sizing Infiltration Areas The area (square feet) of mulch basins needed is determined by dividing the estimated number of gallons produced per day by the soil type’s maximum absorption capacity (measured in gallons/sq2). Use Code Table 1602.10 at right for common soil types. See examples below for complete calculation for 2 different soil types with an estimated daily graywater production of 125 gpd. Coarse sand or gravel: 125 gal/day / 5 gal/ft2/day = 25 ft2 Clay w/small amounts of sand or gravel: 125 gal/day / 0.8 gal/ft2/day = 156.25 ft2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597530408237-VBK8AX3RMSY2EGD8WS5Y/Porosity.001.jpeg Kitchen Sink Graywater Systems - Surge Capacity The open pore space between the particles of wood chips, gravel drain rock, or other chunky organic material in the infiltration basins provides open space in which the surge of graywater fills preventing it from being exposed to the surface (which is prohibited). Approximately 40-60% of the volume in an infiltration basin is occupied by the refill material depending on the exact type used. By calculating the total volume of the excavation and subtracting the volume occupied by the fill material we can get a rough idea of the available surge capacity in Cubic feet and then convert that to gallons (There are 7.48 gallons in a cubic ft3). (Gallons of estimated graywater discharge per day / 7.48) / porosity (expressed as a decimal) = Cubic ft3 of infiltration basin required Ensure the available volume of the infiltration basin exceeds the calculated surge volume of the daily greywater production. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597533460908-RRL4O483AVPEXU5JUN91/labeling.001.jpeg Kitchen Sink Graywater Systems - Labeling Requirements To avoid future confusion Graywater distribution piping has to be labeled to identify it as being Non-potable water. The words “CAUTION: NONPOTABLE GRAY WATER, DO NOT DRINK” should be marked on the pipe at intervals not to exceed every 5 ft. The 3-way diverter valve in the indoor assembly of the Laundry-to-Landscape System is also required to be labeled as to which handle direction sends the graywater to sewer or landscape. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597539974818-YIVQPL7WKUBBPG3D3G50/LaGrandeLandscapeConceptmap.jpg Kitchen Sink Graywater Systems - Operation and Maintenance Manual Required info: Diagram(s) of the system and location of components Instructions on operating the system Details on start-up, shut-down, and deactivation Applicable testing, inspection and maintenance Contact info of installer/designer and component manufacturer Directions that the O&M manual needs to remain with the building for the life of the structure Other helpful info: What kinds of soaps to use A picture of the tubing before it is buried https://www.altwater.org/common-mistakes-graywater-systems daily 0.75 2020-08-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598406707059-7E8U0TG247F98TVFDAAU/image31.png Common Mistakes, Graywater Systems - Avoiding manually cleaned filters High amounts of dissolved solids, nutrients and associated bacteria in graywater rapidly clog filters such that relying on manually cleaning a filter is NEVER recommended. Abandonment of greywater systems due to filter & maintenance failure is the inevitable situation occurring with manually cleaned filter systems. All successful filter systems are automatically self-cleaning and regardless tend to require the most troubleshooting of any part of the system. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598407169827-3NPTHNAKW2NZGQRVSJ32/IMG_0633.jpg Common Mistakes, Graywater Systems - Avoid Cheap Pumps not rated for wastewater Pumps should be: Rated to pass 3/4” solids Pumps are different sizes (horsepower) depending on the distance and height you have to reach Inline float switch attached to the pump activates pump as soon as basin fills with Graywater submersible Vortex impeller or similar technology approved for sewage effluent Dirty water submersible pumps are designed to pump soft solids up to 1 1/2" or more in size with little to no filtration required before the pump Include a check valve (alllows one-way flow only) to prevent Backflow into the basin. A course mesh hair catch filter bag recommended be installed at the inlet into the basin, designed such that even after clogging it does not impede the passage of graywater into the basin. Include Unions ( a plumbing coupling designed to be easily removable)to allow for easy removal and maintenance of the pump Power for pump typically supplied by an existing plug-in 120 V GFCI outlet (cutting the plug off the end of the pump cord (for hard wiring) will void the pump warranty) Electricity use of a 660 Watt pump (running for 1/2 hour per day in a typical 4-person household), would be an actual use of 450 Watts during operation, for a total daily power usage of 0.25 kilowatt hours which represents 0.6% of the average home power consumption. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598408195633-VV8BCA1JO88VJITOHVUP/IMG_0631.jpg Common Mistakes, Graywater Systems - Don’t store Graywater for more than 24 hrs The high amounts of nutrients and suspended solids and bacteria in graywater rapidly multiply under storage to turn into noxious septic blackwater, which is why graywater is never stored for more than 24 hours. . https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598408681976-KBAMRRUKQX5ONB9UX272/soapNH.jpg Common Mistakes, Graywater Systems - Don’t discharge graywater near natural waters Potential environmental pollution can result if harmful chemicals in greywater enter the groundwater & surface water. Even naturally occurring nutrients in greywater can contaminate creeks and other surface water by contributing to algae growths that consume oxygen, which is why systems are designed to minimize contact, prevent ponding and runoff and contain graywater onsite. Releasing graywater in close proximity (within 100 ft) to streams, lakes, water wells, or drainage ways may inevitably lead to surface or drinking water contamination and is prohibited. Photo Credit: Ned Harris 12/26/2012 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598411437353-ZLF1JTNC4QDPK1HO2DGU/cf3c674e-45f2-422b-9dff-e0756fcab1ea.jpeg Common Mistakes, Graywater Systems - Avoid small orifices with unfiltered graywater Don’t distribute unfiltered grey water through perforated pipe, drip emitters or other small orifices, which will clog readily with the plentiful suspended solids in grey water. Other types of wastewater such as septic effluent are able to be successfully distributed through perforated pipe in leachfields because septic tanks are effective for removing suspended solids. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598412162343-ZLDVE16IMY64I8L04J8V/IMG_2082.JPG Common Mistakes, Graywater Systems - Dont expose graywater to the surface Discharge greywater below the surface under a minimum 2″ cover of mulch, plastic shield, or stones so that its not accessible to people or pets. Theres never been a documented case of illness from graywater, but nevertheless all systems should be designed to avoid the possibility of contact or ingestion. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598412407624-I7XEIZ1PGHM2FE87QHLK/bfpd.001.jpeg Common Mistakes, Graywater Systems - Dont connect potable water without an air gap or approved BFPD Backflow prevention devices (BFPD) ensure water quality by preventing contamination of the potable (drinking) water supply due to back-pressure or back-siphonage of graywater into the municipal system. Local regulations vary as to acceptable backflow standards but generally speaking the Reduced pressure (RP) backflow device ( RP valve) is the most reliable backflow prevention device and can protect against both back- pressure and back-siphonage. Above ground installation is required with concrete stabilization and a minimum 12-inch gap between the relief valve and finished grade to allow the RP to discharge water when a back-siphon situation occurs. Backflow preventer devices are legally required to be inspected annually by a certified backflow inspector. Improper designs could create a cross connection where greywater could enter potable water pipes. https://www.altwater.org/indoor-graywater-reuse daily 0.75 2020-08-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598554056241-YROGH9KW6JOV9UCECN35/sink-positive_2-285x285.jpeg Indoor Graywater Reuse - Net energy benefit? In residential contexts its usually most practical to utilize greywater outside, but exceptions include very large houses that have high water use and minimal outdoor irrigation, or larger buildings like apartments. Re-using graywater indoors requires creating a system that treats the water for indoor use. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598408195633-VV8BCA1JO88VJITOHVUP/IMG_0631.jpg Indoor Graywater Reuse - Don’t store Graywater The high amounts of nutrients and suspended solids and bacteria in graywater rapidly multiply under storage to turn into noxious septic blackwater, which is why graywater is never stored for long periods of time. Disinfection can prolong the potential retention time before graywater turns septic. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598555994377-Q4UPJP3E9Q8OPVVQB6QP/Sustainability-Base-Grey-Water-Recycling-System.png Indoor Graywater Reuse - Filtration and Disinfection Graywater passes through an approved filter and then can be disinfected by an acceptable method using one or more disinfectants such as chlorine, iodine or ozone. Sometimes the graywater is required to be dyed blue or green with a food grade vegetable dye before such water is supplied to the fixtures to make it easy to see visually that the water is non-potable. Distribution piping and reservoirs must be identified as containing non-potable water by pipe color or with metal tags. Potable water is to be used as a source of makeup water for the graywater system, with the potable water supply protected against backflow. In California, Treated graywater intended for indoor use shall meet the California Department of Public Health criteria, under Title 22 in the California Code of Regulations. Many countries follow California’s Title 22 for graywater regulations. The World Health Organization has also developed standards for graywater that are similar to the USEPA guidelines. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598556321049-DD94XIT6Q4C3QMS83F82/greywater%2Bqualities.jpg Indoor Graywater Reuse https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598557064020-8OOOP8PG1KUWRJLP5VBK/f0020-02.jpg Indoor Graywater Reuse - Physical/ Chemical Greywater Treatment Systems Storing greywater longer than 24 hrs requires treatment to reduce the bacteria and other microorganisms that can multiply in stagnant water. Physical and chemical treatment systems utilize disinfection and filtration while biological treatment uses aeration and membrane type bioreactors. Many treatment and storage systems also incorporate activated carbon and/or clay filters and disinfection (e.g., chlorination, purification with ultraviolet radiation). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598557270541-BOWBSOE5TDGNQPHP4W1S/filter%2Btype%2Btable.jpg Indoor Graywater Reuse https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598557908889-Y8NQ5NVGOD23MRFLZ16Y/rd3.jpg Indoor Graywater Reuse - Biological Treatment Systems Biological treatment technologies include membrane filters to remove contaminants, bacteria, and viruses along with aerobic biological treatment involving aeration to increase dissolved oxygen and activate bacteria to consume the oxygen and digest organic contaminants. Some systems include media for bacteria to attach to and grow on and also includes membrane bioreactors (MBR), which relies on bubble aeration to mix effluent and limit clogging of the membrane pores. Membranes typically consist of hollow fibers and flat sheets that have a pore size of 0.1 to 0.4 microns, thus filtering out particulates, spores like giardia , cryptosporidia, bacteria, and even viruses. https://www.altwater.org/constructed-wetlands-graywater-systems daily 0.75 2020-08-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598559307521-92C9KS94NWSC4CLN59VQ/wetlands.jpg Constructed Wetlands Graywater Systems - A Plant/Soil Filter Greywater from bath tubs, showers, sinks, and washing machines enters a plant-covered soil filter where it undergoes biological treatment. Extensive investigations over several years of operation show that within the soil filter, E. coli concentrations are reduced by up to 99%. . https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598562945001-9TMVHF90FHNUMR79TZVM/Constructed+Wetlands+-+Figure+1.jpg Constructed Wetlands Graywater Systems https://www.altwater.org/selfcleaning-filters-for-graywater-systems daily 0.75 2020-08-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597874317441-B9ITOQRQKWGRQO0921U3/gw+sand+filter..png Self-Cleaning Filters for Graywater Systems https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598563686001-30DY27PXGVFP9MMD4IWX/maxresdefault-2.jpg Self-Cleaning Filters for Graywater Systems - Irrigray The IrriGRAY system pumps filtered greywater into a drip irrigation system and can be monitored remotely from a smart phone or computer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598563776555-Q2PSWEX5T90L9OGXQNDF/maxresdefault-3.jpg Self-Cleaning Filters for Graywater Systems - Grey Flow Grey Flow PS Plug-N-Play: Made by the Australian company Advanced Waste Water Systems (AWWS), greywater flows through a filter and is pumped out into the greywater compatible drip irrigation system. On a regular basis the system automatically cleans the filter by blasting compressed air up through the filter to dislodging dirt and debris, while incoming greywater washes it to the sewer. Since there is no potable water connection, just compressed air and greywater to clean the filter, the system is simpler to install with lower permitting fees than other types of self-cleaning filter systems. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598563859635-M0CSCY102VP9MI5A354A/SystemFilterDiagram-e1491324362678.jpg Self-Cleaning Filters for Graywater Systems - ReWater ReWater system has been on the marker for over 20 years, far longer than any other system. It consists of a self-cleaning sand filter (with potable water to backflush it), irrigation controllers, and greywater-compatible drip irrigation system. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597960626397-SWF9VOB6YY4MUWJP5KQF/Effluent+pump.001.jpeg Self-Cleaning Filters for Graywater Systems - Effluent Pump Rated to pass 3/4” solids Pumps are different sizes (horsepower) depending on the distance and height you have to reach Inline float switch attached to the pump activates pump as soon as basin fills with Graywater submersible Vortex impeller or similar technology approved for sewage effluent Dirty water submersible pumps are designed to pump soft solids up to 1 1/2" or more in size with little to no filtration required before the pump Include a check valve (alllows one-way flow only) to prevent Backflow into the basin. A course mesh hair catch filter bag recommended be installed at the inlet into the basin, designed such that even after clogging it does not impede the passage of graywater into the basin. Include Unions ( a plumbing coupling designed to be easily removable)to allow for easy removal and maintenance of the pump Power for pump typically supplied by an existing plug-in 120 V GFCI outlet (cutting the plug off the end of the pump cord (for hard wiring) will void the pump warranty) Electricity use of a 660 Watt pump (running for 1/2 hour per day in a typical 4-person household), would be an actual use of 450 Watts during operation, for a total daily power usage of 0.25 kilowatt hours which represents 0.6% of the average home power consumption. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597967596668-FESY5BQXA419V0GEO30P/disc%2Bfilter.jpg Self-Cleaning Filters for Graywater Systems - Self-Cleaning Filters (Vary widely according to design) Graywater is pumped through an automated self cleaning “Disc filter” containing a stack of discs each with a series of microscopic grooves whose dimension determines the effective mesh size of the filter, ranging from 40 to 600 mesh. Graywater is filtered as it flows through the disc grooves, which contain up 100x the surface area of a screen filter, but nonetheless clog readily and thus require a self-cleaning mechanism that shifts from normal filtration flow to backwash by reversing flow direction. Triggering the backwash cycle can be done through the use of pressure sensors upstream and downstream of the filter that measure the pressure differential (pressure loss) across the filter (Which increases as the filter becomes clogged), or through the use of timers that flush the filter on a regular interval. Filter backwash water is usually provided by a pressurized feed from municipal water, with cross connection prevention provided by a code-compliant, Reduced Pressure Principal-type double-check valve Backflow prevention device. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597973663950-SMCS3YFMMWMZPTS57Y1A/Sub-surface+drip.001.jpeg Self-Cleaning Filters for Graywater Systems - Sub-Surface Drip After filtration graywater is distributed to the landscape via a 1” supply line(PVC or PE) connected to 1/2” dripplerlines with built-in “in-line” drip emitters. High amounts of suspended solids (i.e.dissolved detergents, dirt) and bacteria in unfiltered graywater quickly clog traditional drip emitters so use emitters specially designed to resist root intrusion and irrigate with waste water. Dripperlines are laid on or under the soil surface, covered by 2” of mulch (aka sub-mulch) or soil (aka sub-soil), with the spacing between lines determined by the soil type and plant material. Very low flow dripper zones may release graywater slower than it is being generated, causing the water level in the pumping basin to build up and overflow to the sewer. While very high flow dripper zones may require more water to pressurize the dripperline than the volume of graywater normally generated in a typical house at any time. Optimal zone size generally ranges from 500 to 1000 square feet and should be divided according to geography of the site and water requirements of plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598389700416-SZ614HZLO9K7YE6FV3J0/bfpd.001.jpeg Self-Cleaning Filters for Graywater Systems - Backflow Prevention Device Backflow prevention devices ensure water quality by preventing contamination of the potable (drinking) water supply due to back-pressure or back-siphonage of graywater into the municipal system. Local regulations vary as to acceptable backflow standards but generally speaking the Reduced pressure (RP) backflow device ( RP valve) is the most reliable backflow prevention device and can protect against both back- pressure and back-siphonage. Above ground installation is required with concrete stabilization and a minimum 12-inch gap between the relief valve and finished grade to allow the RP to discharge water when a back-siphon situation occurs. Backflow preventer devices are legally required to be inspected annually by a certified backflow inspector. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598389927099-R8JSFCYPEKVNIJKTRRHL/image40.jpg Self-Cleaning Filters for Graywater Systems - Smart Controllers Typical functions for a controller include opening and closing solenoid valves, managing filter backwash cycles, water budgeting according to zone characteristics and changing weather conditions. The chief challenge with controlling greywater is that the supply is not always reliably there at a predictable time. The controller must be able to sense when the basin is full of water and then determine the correct zone to irrigate. Smart Controllers are able to self-adjust according to changing weather conditions, and seasonally changing evapotranspiration rates, usually based on realtime ET (evapotranspiration) values taken from active weatherstations, historical climate data for the appropriate CIMIS zone location, and/or soil moisture sensors. Some systems use a water meter that measures all graywater and alternate water that is distributed to each zone. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598390942936-1P8IBFGOMYG1CDFPD22C/IMG_8616.jpg Self-Cleaning Filters for Graywater Systems - Make-up water refers to the supplementary water (usually freshwater) that is distributed through the greywater system to cover any irrigation requirement not fulfilled by the amount of greywater produced. Make-up water can be added to the pumping basin through an “air gap” situation or can is allowed to be directly connected to the graywater system (allowed in some jurisdictions) if protected by an approved RPZ Backflow Prevention Device. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598391508274-2K4EGNMW5CEJ4M61OICB/IMG_0950.jpg Self-Cleaning Filters for Graywater Systems - Designing and Calculating Drip Zone Flows Greywater drip zones are usually designed to irrigate at approximately the maximum flow rate that graywater is being produced into basin, which avoids ever losing water through over flow. Theoretically if multiple fixtures in a whole house system were being used at the same time (i.e. 2 people showering @ 2.5 gpm + Laundry machine (2.5)and sink(2.5)) then producing 10 gpm is a good rough estimate of the maximum theoretical rate of production. To determine the flow rate of a drip zone, add up the total linear feet of dripper line and multiply by the flow rate of the drip emitter which is measured in gallons per hour, and divide by 60 (minutes in a hour) to get the flow rate in gallons per minute: (i.e. 300 ft x 2 gph emitters =600 gph/60 = 10 gpm. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598391736020-IDSIX0XZXFET66ITBCO4/image31.png Self-Cleaning Filters for Graywater Systems - Avoiding manually cleaned filters High amounts of dissolved solids, nutrients and associated bacteria in graywater rapidly clog filters such that relying on manually cleaning a filter is NEVER recommended. Abandonment of greywater systems due to filter & maintenance failure is the inevitable situation occurring with manually cleaned filter systems. All successful filter systems are automatically self-cleaning and regardless tend to require the most troubleshooting of any part of the system. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597539974818-YIVQPL7WKUBBPG3D3G50/LaGrandeLandscapeConceptmap.jpg Self-Cleaning Filters for Graywater Systems - Operation and Maintenance Manual Required info: Diagram(s) of the system and location of components Instructions on operating the system Details on start-up, shut-down, and deactivation Applicable testing, inspection and maintenance Contact info of installer/designer and component manufacturer Directions that the O&M manual needs to remain with the building for the life of the structure Other helpful info: What kinds of soaps to use A picture of the tubing before it is buried https://www.altwater.org/smart-controllers daily 0.75 2020-08-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598564514159-9J4ZEPG6VB2TMU5SOUFK/onlyafewsmar.jpg Smart Controllers - Weather based irrigation controllers (WBICs) Use local weather, landscape conditions, and type of irrigation equipment to determine schedule. Some conventional controllers can be upgraded to WBICs .Weather data may be from on on-site or off-site source. Weather data may be subscription based or free. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598564722062-NGF15X9NC8AMPOWOOTEM/SENSOR_1-11.jpg Smart Controllers - Soil moisture-based controllers Use soil moisture sensors to measure soil moisture within the root zone Do not rely on weather data to operate Compare soil moisture readings to desiredmoisture level If soil moisture exceeds the target level the controller overrides the irrigation system https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598565169790-5NBJDOC3CSVBQYBPPIBA/wifi+contrroller.001.jpeg Smart Controllers - WiFi irrigation controllers Control remotely via application or web browser Convenient data feed Many are also WBICs, but not always https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598389927099-R8JSFCYPEKVNIJKTRRHL/image40.jpg Smart Controllers - Transformer Reduces electrical voltage down from 120 V down to 24 V typical for irrigation valve control etc https://www.altwater.org/permitting-and-code-for-graywater-systems daily 0.75 2020-08-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598565942269-JN99D93FC1EUB2T6XXWA/stormwater.jpg Permitting and Code for Graywater Systems - Concerns of Regulators Contamination of potable water Backflow prevention and/or air gap Runoff Litigation, odor complaints Graywater entering storm drains is Illegal and causes watershed pollution Pooling, ponding Mosquitoes, exposure Piping infrastructure Ratio of liquids to solids to keep wastewater moving https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598566194056-FDANITTWJ1D349WNA84A/635732593911870000.jpeg Permitting and Code for Graywater Systems - Code Compliance? Historical low code compliance rates in California (<1%) People deterred by perception of impractical code requirements Few professionals installing graywater systems Development of graywater code in recent years facilitates professional installation Opportunity for landscape and plumbing industries https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598569579790-W40PQM75EDMT5TZ5QP09/DSCN3612_cropped.jpg Permitting and Code for Graywater Systems - Clothes Washer System Guidelines ( Permit exempt if no alteration to existing plumbing and system follows 12 code guidelines) Notification of installation of the system to Enforcing Agency (county or city permitting department, environmental health, public works, etc) User can easily redirect flow to sewer No potable water connection The graywater shall be contained on the site where it is generated Graywater shall be directed to and contained within an irrigation or disposal field Ponding or runoff is prohibited and shall be considered a nuisance At least two (2) inches of mulch, rock, soil, or a solid shield covers the release point Minimize contact with humans and domestic pets. Water used for diaper washing and similarly soiled or infectious garments shall be diverted to the building sewer. Graywater shall not contain hazardous chemicals derived from activities such as cleaning car parts, washing greasy or oily rags, or disposing of waste solutions from home photo labs or similar hobbyist or home occupational activities. Exemption from construction permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any gray water system to be installed in a manner that violates other provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of the enforcing agency. An operation and maintenance manual shall be provided. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598569738240-OKSR5YS9XQ4U1F18HYED/Setbacks.001.jpg Permitting and Code for Graywater Systems - Setbacks for Outlets Follow required setbacks for a code-compliant system. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598579763322-X7OPWIAFFM4XJRR39CZ4/FINCI_GRAYWATER_GOOGLE_EARTH_PLOTPLAN.jpg Permitting and Code for Graywater Systems - Plot Plan (to scale) Lot lines / slope Retaining walls / drainage channels / 
paved areas / structures Water supply lines / plumbing fixtures Water and sewer system (private and/or public) Location of proposed gray water system https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598580436852-AKDYSZ1N6J6SSQZJEVY1/IMG_3299.jpg Permitting and Code for Graywater Systems - Soil / groundwater Absence of groundwater can be proven by digging a 3 ft. test hole (ideally below the depth of the mulch basin) Conduct a soil test and contact local enforcement agency for requirements https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598389700416-SZ614HZLO9K7YE6FV3J0/bfpd.001.jpeg Permitting and Code for Graywater Systems - Backflow Prevention Device Systems that use a pump or that have a potable water connection will require a Backflow prevention devices (BFPD) which ensures water quality by preventing contamination of the potable (drinking) water supply due to back-pressure or back-siphonage of graywater into the municipal system. Local regulations vary as to acceptable backflow standards but generally speaking the Reduced pressure (RP) backflow device ( RP valve) is the most reliable backflow prevention device and can protect against both back- pressure and back-siphonage. Above ground installation is required with concrete stabilization and a minimum 12-inch gap between the relief valve and finished grade to allow the RP to discharge water when a back-siphon situation occurs. Backflow preventer devices are legally required to be inspected annually by a certified backflow inspector. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598582626630-CFV07HFB36DQSA5JIEC8/image.jpeg Permitting and Code for Graywater Systems - Diversion downstream from Traps & Vents Vent pipes provide an outlet and inlet for this air and prevent a vacuum from being formed that could suck the water out of the p-trap (which is meant to stay full all the time). In order for the vent to work though it must be downstream and within a certain distance from the P-trap, known as the “critical distance”. Vent pipes are easy to confuse as drain lines when one is unfamiliar with plumbing. 3-way diverter valves should always be located downstream of P-traps & Vents, otherwise they would cut off their essential function. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597539974818-YIVQPL7WKUBBPG3D3G50/LaGrandeLandscapeConceptmap.jpg Permitting and Code for Graywater Systems - Operation and Maintenance Manual Required info: Diagram(s) of the system and location of components Instructions on operating the system Details on start-up, shut-down, and deactivation Applicable testing, inspection and maintenance Contact info of installer/designer and component manufacturer Directions that the O&M manual needs to remain with the building for the life of the structure Other helpful info: What kinds of soaps to use A picture of the tubing before it is buried https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598582958860-DT8GTFGW3GZ4BKTLW295/image.jpeg Permitting and Code for Graywater Systems - Labeling Requirements To avoid future confusion Graywater distribution piping has to be labeled to identify it as being Non-potable water. The words “CAUTION: NONPOTABLE GRAY WATER, DO NOT DRINK” should be marked on the pipe at intervals not to exceed every 5 ft. The 3-way diverter valve in the indoor assembly of the Laundry-to-Landscape System is also required to be labeled as to which handle direction sends the graywater to sewer or landscape. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598583178539-L5K2P0OJ5SPQQR4X5LK0/image.jpeg Permitting and Code for Graywater Systems - Sizing Drainpipes Drain line pipes are sized according to the number of “drainage fixture units” they carry. Each type of fixture (ie. shower, sink, toilet) has a different number of “units” assigned to it in the plumbing code. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598583341258-9H0J3LIT8WJEPN95KXTY/image.jpeg Permitting and Code for Graywater Systems - Maximum Unit Loading Add up all the units of the fixtures you want to connect to determine what size pipe is necessary. Whether the section of pipe is vertical or horizontal also determines the amount of units it can carry. The vast majority of single family home graywater systems will be fine with a 2” pipe, and only the largest systems will need a bigger size pipe. For example, a typical branched drain system may include a shower(2 units), a sink (1 unit), a bathtub(2) and a laundry (3) for a total of 8 units, which still fits in a 2” pipe but is the maximum units allowed in that pipe size. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598583488584-51DD1VW5MBS75171P0LQ/image.jpeg Permitting and Code for Graywater Systems - Estimating Graywater Production Using the Code formula (1602.8.1) requires knowing the number of bedrooms in the house, which determines the number of theoretical occupants: 1st bedroom = 2 occupants Additional bedrooms = 1 occupant Add up the total occupants and then multiply the total number of occupants by the estimated graywater production per-occupant accordingly: Laundry = 15 GPD (gallons per day) per occupant Showers, bathtubs, and wash basins = 25 GPD per occupant See the example at right for a complete calculation process for a four bedroom house. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598583766300-5UNJK4UX0Q0BOXIYWPJA/image.jpeg Permitting and Code for Graywater Systems - Sizing Infiltration Areas The area (square feet) of mulch basins needed is determined by dividing the estimated number of gallons produced per day by the soil type’s maximum absorption capacity (measured in gallons/sq2). Use Code Table 1602.10 at right for common soil types. See examples below for complete calculation for 2 different soil types with an estimated daily graywater production of 125 gpd. Coarse sand or gravel: 125 gal/day / 5 gal/ft2/day = 25 ft2 Clay w/small amounts of sand or gravel: 125 gal/day / 0.8 gal/ft2/day = 156.25 ft2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598584054481-GWFHMORL3Q7NX24LPIQ2/image.jpeg Permitting and Code for Graywater Systems - Surge Capacity The open pore space between the particles of wood chips, gravel drain rock, or other chunky organic material in the infiltration basins provides open space in which the surge of graywater fills preventing it from being exposed to the surface (which is prohibited). Approximately 40-60% of the volume in an infiltration basin is occupied by the refill material depending on the exact type used. By calculating the total volume of the excavation and subtracting the volume occupied by the fill material we can get a rough idea of the available surge capacity in Cubic feet and then convert that to gallons (There are 7.48 gallons in a cubic ft3). (Gallons of estimated graywater discharge per day / 7.48) / porosity (expressed as a decimal) = Cubic ft3 of infiltration basin required Ensure the available volume of the infiltration basin exceeds the calculated surge volume of the daily greywater production. https://www.altwater.org/plumbing-for-graywater-systems daily 0.75 2020-08-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598590259205-MWCQ93PNXKG2OK9Y3SD1/image.jpeg Plumbing for Graywater Systems - Minimum Slope Drain pipe systems need constant proper downwards slope in order to drain correctly without clogging. Quantified slope can be expressed as a percentage, a ratio (rise over run) or an angle(degrees). “2%” slope is the industry standard recommended slope for drainpipes and is the same as saying 2ft of fall over 100 ft of run, or 1/4” per ft. The pipe can NEVER slope up again and because the deeper you release the water in the landscape, the less absorbable it is by plants, (and the less effectively treated it is by the more biologically active upper soil layers) strive to “conserve fall” as much as possible (don’t slope down any more than 2% unless you have to). Preserving fall can also often make it possible for pipes to be able to exit the house through the crawlspace vents, above the foundation wall (to avoid drilling a hole in the concrete). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598646775195-F1VJ0U9QJS1BHCBMGKRO/82322.image0.jpg Plumbing for Graywater Systems - Plastic Drain Pipe & Fittings Both black ABS (Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) and white PVC DWV ((Polyvinyl chloride, Drain waste and vent )are used and each uses their own type of special glue adhesive. A cutoff saw with a grinder-type solid blade, reciprocating saw, PVC/ABS hand saw, hacksaw, or ratcheting cutters can be used to cut the pipe. Plastic fittings come in a myriad of designs and angles (i.e. 90°, 60°, 45°, 22°) that can be assembled to direct the pipe where you need it, always endeavoring to minimize turns and resistance to flow. Clean-outs (a special fitting with an access port to snake out the pipe if necessary to unclog it) should be included after every cumulative 135° of turns. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598647458231-RDPCPMVY0AAJZNVSZJ5B/image.jpeg Plumbing for Graywater Systems - Cutting Hole openings In wood framing requires special consideration for preserving the structural integrity of the framing. Drill the smallest hole possible for your pipe and always situate the hole in the middle of the board (away from the edge). Use a hole saw or large drill bit and use extreme caution, careful observation, and detection tools (such as a metal-detecting stud finder) to avoid hitting any existing utilities (i.e. tap water pipes, electrical wires, drainpipes, gas pipes etc.). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598649654945-RQQS5W5WN869CCBAQ8HU/maxresdefault-4.jpg Plumbing for Graywater Systems - Gluing Each type of pipe uses their own type of special glue adhesive. Some glues are two-step, requiring a primer first and then a glue. Make sure that the pieces are as clean as possible, put glue on both pieces, assemble them as fast as possible, and hold the joint in place briefly as it dries. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598650662539-KUVOLEH2MEKEUWWE0YT7/FNI_1056-100.jpg Plumbing for Graywater Systems - Flexible fittings Are very useful to transition from one pipe material to another (ie. Cast Iron over to ABS) or wherever a removable connection is preferable (ie. access to a trap cleanout under a sink). The rubber fittings use metal hose clamps that are tightened down using a nut-setter or screw driver. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598653222106-34J83CSVYSL0552ROEVT/image.jpeg Plumbing for Graywater Systems - Vent pipes As fluid flows through a drainpipe it pushes air ahead of it and sucks air behind it. Vent pipes provide an outlet and inlet for this air and prevent a vacuum from being formed that could suck the water out of the p-trap (which is meant to stay full all the time). In order for the vent to work though it must be downstream and within a certain distance from the P-trap, known as the “critical distance”. Venting for graywater pipes can be separate from toilet vents or can tie into the toilet vent 12” above the spill point of the highest fixture served by the vent. Vent pipes are easy to confuse as drain lines when one is unfamiliar with plumbing. 3-way diverter valves should always be located downstream of P-traps & Vents, otherwise they would cut off their essential function. An AAV (Air admittance valve) is used in some instances where through-the-roof vent pipes are not an option. AAV’s must be accessible (i.e. not permanently closed inside a wall) in case they fail and need to be replaced. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598654235286-1ZTJVOBK1F4R3Z8YBH7D/pipe-hanger-j-hook-4in.jpg Plumbing for Graywater Systems - Pipe Hangars and Strapping In order to keep the pipes at the correct slopes, pipe hangars and strapping are used to secure the pipe to adjacent framing in a crawlspace, at a minimum of 4’ intervals between securement. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598657255406-E67B5R0N3R4511QAN970/image.jpeg Plumbing for Graywater Systems - Shower Drain Pipe Identification The first step to installing a 3 way diverter valve is to identify the correct pipes to divert. A “p-trap” (a common component of drain plumbing systems that is full of water that prevents sewer gases from entering the building) is usually visible from within the crawlspace and helps identify the shower drain line because sinks and toilets have their p-traps located under the fixture in the house. A 1 1/2”-2” pipe size (inner diameter of pipe (“ID”)) also suggests a shower line as waste water pipes are sized by the amount of water that travels through them and toilets are always a minimum of 3”-4”. A good method of confirming you have the correct pipe is to run HOT water in the drain line until you feel the pipe heat up. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598658012446-CFZFQY1W8IYOL3JESQ2Q/image.jpeg Plumbing for Graywater Systems - Laundry and Sinks Drain Pipe Identification Even though laundry graywater is often sent through an independent “Laundry-to-Landscape” system, it can also be sent through a branched drain or combined into a whole-house system. The drainpipe your laundry discharge hose empties into should be a 2” size and has a non-visible P-trap connected to it located inside the wall. Sink drain pipes can be as small as 1 1/4” or 1 1/2” and sometimes share vents with other fixtures or use an isolated vent such as an auto vent. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598590466665-5V3ZFHNJZRQ3KK5ZB59S/image.jpeg Plumbing for Graywater Systems - Sizing Drainpipes Drain line pipes are sized according to the number of “drainage fixture units” they carry. Each type of fixture (ie. shower, sink, toilet) has a different number of “units” assigned to it in the plumbing code. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598590680080-XD2812XAVZB4GTRGWUDA/image.jpeg Plumbing for Graywater Systems - Maximum Unit Loading Add up all the units of the fixtures you want to connect to determine what size pipe is necessary. Whether the section of pipe is vertical or horizontal also determines the amount of units it can carry. The vast majority of single family home graywater systems will be fine with a 2” pipe, and only the largest systems will need a bigger size pipe. For example, a typical branched drain system may include a shower(2 units), a sink (1 unit), a bathtub(2) and a laundry (3) for a total of 8 units, which still fits in a 2” pipe but is the maximum units allowed in that pipe size. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598658212320-OD840JKR3MEBU4M285WI/image.jpeg Plumbing for Graywater Systems - 3-Way Diverter Valve Installed in the drain line downstream of traps and vents but upstream of any connection to backwater fixtures (ie. toilet) Uses 1.5”, 2” or larger drain pipe An actuator may be installed on. the valve to allow remote switching from within the house (code required if the valve is not “reasonably accessible”) A backwater valve (aka “sewer check valve”) is typically installed on the sewer side of the 3-way valve to prevent sewer water from potentially backing up into the graywater system https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598658395323-SOOEZ4IPWJCFVCQ86YEU/image.jpeg Plumbing for Graywater Systems - Backwater Valve AKA Sewer Check Valve is usually installed on the sewer side of the 3-way valve to prevent sewer water further downstream from backing up into the greywater system. Since the 3-way valve itself shuts off the sewer connection, the backwater valve functions only if the 3-way valve is left partially open, and this component is Not required by all jurisdictions. Must be installed in the correct orientation with flow arrows pointing downstream in order to function correctly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598658580824-A6T1LRVKYSGLU8UOCKGY/image.jpeg Plumbing for Graywater Systems - Valve Actuator If the 3-way valve is not easily accessible (e.g. tiny crawl space) you will need to install an actuator to operate it remotely from within the house. An actuator is an electrically powered motor that turns the 3-way valve, and is connected to low voltage power and a switch placed in a convenient location. The actuator itself is available from pool supply stores and is designed to fit a particular size and brand of 3-way valve. A few other components available from electrical supply stores or hardware stores are needed to complete the actuator switch: 24 Volt transformer with screw on terminals (plugs into a wall socket and reduces power from 120 Volts to 24 Volts) A toggle-type switch A surface mount electrical box and faceplate. Wire nuts to make electrical connections within box Low-Voltage wire (12 or 14 gauge) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597950747290-SEYEDIS97Z8N7HKM55GJ/pump%2Bsystem.001.jpg Plumbing for Graywater Systems - Pumping Basin (aka surge tank or surge basin) Graywater is collected into a pumping basin but the system needs to be designed to empty at least every day because its prohibited to store greywater for more than 24 hours ( high amounts of nutrients and suspended solids and bacteria in graywater rapidly multiply under storage to turn into noxious septic blackwater). Other Code Requirements for pumping basins: Watertight Made of solid, durable material Vented Sealed against vermin Access opening for cleaning Labeled with capacity, and "GRAY WATER SYSTEM, CAUTION- UNSAFE WATER" Passive overflow drain to the sewer (same size as inlet pipe) with a backwater valve (sewer check valve) Unions on piping to tank If underground, lids must withstand 300 pounds per square foot Install on 3” thick concrete slab or compacted baserock foundation. 1/16” screens on all vents, inlets, and overflow pipes Designed to minimize time graywater is held in tank Designed to distribute estimated amount of graywater on a daily basis see Code 1602.8.3 for additional details https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597960626397-SWF9VOB6YY4MUWJP5KQF/Effluent+pump.001.jpeg Plumbing for Graywater Systems - Effluent Pump Rated to pass 3/4” solids Pumps are different sizes (horsepower) depending on the distance and height you have to reach Inline float switch attached to the pump activates pump as soon as basin fills with Graywater submersible Vortex impeller or similar technology approved for sewage effluent Dirty water submersible pumps are designed to pump soft solids up to 1 1/2" or more in size with little to no filtration required before the pump Include a check valve (alllows one-way flow only) to prevent Backflow into the basin. A course mesh hair catch filter bag recommended be installed at the inlet into the basin, designed such that even after clogging it does not impede the passage of graywater into the basin. Include Unions ( a plumbing coupling designed to be easily removable)to allow for easy removal and maintenance of the pump Power for pump typically supplied by an existing plug-in 120 V GFCI outlet (cutting the plug off the end of the pump cord (for hard wiring) will void the pump warranty) Electricity use of a 660 Watt pump (running for 1/2 hour per day in a typical 4-person household), would be an actual use of 450 Watts during operation, for a total daily power usage of 0.25 kilowatt hours which represents 0.6% of the average home power consumption. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597967596668-FESY5BQXA419V0GEO30P/disc%2Bfilter.jpg Plumbing for Graywater Systems - Self-Cleaning Filters (Vary widely according to design) Graywater is pumped through an automated self cleaning “Disc filter” containing a stack of discs each with a series of microscopic grooves whose dimension determines the effective mesh size of the filter, ranging from 40 to 600 mesh. Graywater is filtered as it flows through the disc grooves, which contain up 100x the surface area of a screen filter, but nonetheless clog readily and thus require a self-cleaning mechanism that shifts from normal filtration flow to backwash by reversing flow direction. Triggering the backwash cycle can be done through the use of pressure sensors upstream and downstream of the filter that measure the pressure differential (pressure loss) across the filter (Which increases as the filter becomes clogged), or through the use of timers that flush the filter on a regular interval. Filter backwash water is usually provided by a pressurized feed from municipal water, with cross connection prevention provided by a code-compliant, Reduced Pressure Principal-type double-check valve Backflow prevention device. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598391736020-IDSIX0XZXFET66ITBCO4/image31.png Plumbing for Graywater Systems - Avoiding manually cleaned filters High amounts of dissolved solids, nutrients and associated bacteria in graywater rapidly clog filters such that relying on manually cleaning a filter is NEVER recommended. Abandonment of greywater systems due to filter & maintenance failure is the inevitable situation occurring with manually cleaned filter systems. All successful filter systems are automatically self-cleaning and regardless tend to require the most troubleshooting of any part of the system. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1597973663950-SMCS3YFMMWMZPTS57Y1A/Sub-surface+drip.001.jpeg Plumbing for Graywater Systems - Sub-Surface Drip After filtration graywater is distributed to the landscape via a 1” supply line(PVC or PE) connected to 1/2” dripplerlines with built-in “in-line” drip emitters. High amounts of suspended solids (i.e.dissolved detergents, dirt) and bacteria in unfiltered graywater quickly clog traditional drip emitters so use emitters specially designed to resist root intrusion and irrigate with waste water. Dripperlines are laid on or under the soil surface, covered by 2” of mulch (aka sub-mulch) or soil (aka sub-soil), with the spacing between lines determined by the soil type and plant material. Very low flow dripper zones may release graywater slower than it is being generated, causing the water level in the pumping basin to build up and overflow to the sewer. While very high flow dripper zones may require more water to pressurize the dripperline than the volume of graywater normally generated in a typical house at any time. Optimal zone size generally ranges from 500 to 1000 square feet and should be divided according to geography of the site and water requirements of plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598391508274-2K4EGNMW5CEJ4M61OICB/IMG_0950.jpg Plumbing for Graywater Systems - Designing and Calculating Drip Zone Flows Greywater drip zones are usually designed to irrigate at approximately the maximum flow rate that graywater is being produced into basin, which avoids ever losing water through over flow. Theoretically if multiple fixtures in a whole house system were being used at the same time (i.e. 2 people showering @ 2.5 gpm + Laundry machine (2.5)and sink(2.5)) then producing 10 gpm is a good rough estimate of the maximum theoretical rate of production. To determine the flow rate of a drip zone, add up the total linear feet of dripper line and multiply by the flow rate of the drip emitter which is measured in gallons per hour, and divide by 60 (minutes in a hour) to get the flow rate in gallons per minute: (i.e. 300 ft x 2 gph emitters =600 gph/60 = 10 gpm. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598390942936-1P8IBFGOMYG1CDFPD22C/IMG_8616.jpg Plumbing for Graywater Systems - Make-up water refers to the supplementary water (usually freshwater) that is distributed through the greywater system to cover any irrigation requirement not fulfilled by the amount of greywater produced. Make-up water can be added to the pumping basin through an “air gap” situation or can is allowed to be directly connected to the graywater system (allowed in some jurisdictions) if protected by an approved RPZ Backflow Prevention Device. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598389700416-SZ614HZLO9K7YE6FV3J0/bfpd.001.jpeg Plumbing for Graywater Systems - Backflow Prevention Device Backflow prevention devices ensure water quality by preventing contamination of the potable (drinking) water supply due to back-pressure or back-siphonage of graywater into the municipal system. Local regulations vary as to acceptable backflow standards but generally speaking the Reduced pressure (RP) backflow device ( RP valve) is the most reliable backflow prevention device and can protect against both back- pressure and back-siphonage. Above ground installation is required with concrete stabilization and a minimum 12-inch gap between the relief valve and finished grade to allow the RP to discharge water when a back-siphon situation occurs. Backflow preventer devices are legally required to be inspected annually by a certified backflow inspector. https://www.altwater.org/evaluating-potential-sites-for-graywater-systems daily 0.75 2020-08-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598666452924-IDM33S63TT52GEFUONFN/image.jpeg Evaluating Potential Sites for Graywater Systems A Site Plan for a Graywater System Design https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598665040894-XUUQZVUTWSLGOME6NTED/image.jpeg Evaluating Potential Sites for Graywater Systems - Graywater flows downhill. If the area you want to irrigate is level or downhill from the elevation of your plumbing, then you can likely use a passive gravity feed to your advantage. Wastewater piping systems are designed to slope downwards continuously to prevent particles in the water from accumulating and clogging the system. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598665177961-QAMYXTFCJ1O2TZQNPTY1/image.jpeg Evaluating Potential Sites for Graywater Systems - Greywater pumps uphill. When the only areas you can irrigate are up hill you have no choice but to use a pump. Pressurizing the graywater with a pump adds to the cost and complexity of a system, but also affords you the opportunity to pump through a filter, use drip irrigation, and measure and control flows to a greater degree. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598665409535-GB5Q0SQHL44HAIBWVKR1/image.jpeg Evaluating Potential Sites for Graywater Systems - Trees, shrubs or large plants work well with low-tech systems because they use flood irrigation to “mulch basins” (that contain the surge of graywater). Plants with relatively large root systems benefit from that type of concentrated distribution. Graywater requires no filtration to be used with this method which makes low-tech systems very simple and low maintenance. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598665768538-QA62Z1AOBNA7RUUG80N0/image.png Evaluating Potential Sites for Graywater Systems - Small plants, lawn, or complicated landscape needs a very broad and even distribution that can only be accomplished with graywater using drip irrigation. In order to pass through tiny drip emitters graywater needs to be filtered and pressurized which makes high-tech systems more complicated as filters need to be automatically self-cleaning to prevent rapid clogging. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598666093251-IP582XP6I5FSURC4RTAY/image.jpeg Evaluating Potential Sites for Graywater Systems - Simple works Low-tech systems are reliable, save water, and have lower initial costs (≈$500 - $4,000) and low to no operating costs. The fact that they don’t rely on high-tech components and electricity to operate means they have a low environmental impact and their overall net benefit is high. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598666271565-CUI7W3A7665AC2XDCRF1/image.jpeg Evaluating Potential Sites for Graywater Systems - Complex works…sometimes Because high-tech systems are able to use drip irrigation and control the water to a high degree they have the potential to offset significant quantities of potable water use (irrigation water out of the tap), which over time could offer a high return on investment for the more substantial initial costs (≈$1,500 -$8,500) of a high-tech system. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598667160861-CM92YK0WZFL0CI00EJ4A/image.jpeg Evaluating Potential Sites for Graywater Systems - Setbacks for Outlets Follow required setbacks for a code-compliant system. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598667575935-LPWKFRPFYWOBX6QWF611/5afdfd64c3f94c16e8f1abd6_soil-texture-hands.jpg Evaluating Potential Sites for Graywater Systems - Soil properties affect how water infiltrates Soils drain and retain water depending on the soil structure and organic matter content. Clay soils drain the slowest but ultimately hold the most water. Sandy soils drain the quickest and hold the least amount of water, and Silt loams (which is texturally in the middle between Clay & Sand) hold the most plant available water. The “texture” of a soil is due to its relative proportions of the mineral particles of Sand, Silt, and Clay, which vary in the size of the particle with clay being the smallest and sand the largest particle. Organic matter acts like a sponge in the soil matrix and helps all soil types absorb and retain more plant available moisture. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598668478363-HFVXVONX4DNHSC34XK97/image.jpeg Evaluating Potential Sites for Graywater Systems - Sizing Infiltration Areas The area (square feet) of mulch basins needed is determined by dividing the estimated number of gallons produced per day by the soil type’s maximum absorption capacity (measured in gallons/sq2). Use Code Table 1602.10 at right for common soil types. See examples below for complete calculation for 2 different soil types with an estimated daily graywater production of 125 gpd. Coarse sand or gravel: 125 gal/day / 5 gal/ft2/day = 25 ft2 Clay w/small amounts of sand or gravel: 125 gal/day / 0.8 gal/ft2/day = 156.25 ft2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598668749034-8EAHLBHKV3O49K4F72S3/image.jpeg Evaluating Potential Sites for Graywater Systems - Estimating Graywater Production Using the Code formula (1602.8.1) requires knowing the number of bedrooms in the house, which determines the number of theoretical occupants: 1st bedroom = 2 occupants Additional bedrooms = 1 occupant Add up the total occupants and then multiply the total number of occupants by the estimated graywater production per-occupant accordingly: Laundry = 15 GPD (gallons per day) per occupant Showers, bathtubs, and wash basins = 25 GPD per occupant See the example at right for a complete calculation process for a four bedroom house. https://www.altwater.org/cost-benefit-analysis-for-graywater-systems daily 0.75 2020-08-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598727051074-0DYTHT5HUICHI48817W8/Roi.jpg Cost Benefit Analysis for Graywater Systems - Reducing Water Bills The average American water bill is $70.39 per month. Greywater systems can reduce a household's water use by 10% to 50%. A Greywater system from the laundry machine alone provides an estimated annual savings of 6,400 gallons per household. A common error is to assume that graywater production is equal to water savings. How much potable water-use you actually offset depends a lot on your design, the irrigation efficiency of your system(the % of total water applied that is converted for beneficial irrigation use) and the management of your sites water budget. The efficiency of different systems varies significantly (ie 15%-95% ), and many are installed in conjunction with new additional plantings which increase a sites water requirement resulting in a net 0 savings in water. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598730734353-W19YR6HWXA2W34HTRXRU/8915.png Cost Benefit Analysis for Graywater Systems - Cost of water likely to increase over time The cost of potable water will likely increase in the future. The major costs in maintaining and increasing water supply are: increasing operation and maintenance (O & M) costs, capital improvement projects, and the development of additional water supplies such as desalination and recycled water systems. Costs of improvements to overtaxed water infrastructure are usually passed on to the customer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598730985239-3UNTC6GA5WSBQSJCE4PN/image.jpeg Cost Benefit Analysis for Graywater Systems - System efficiency More simple designs have a lower initial and operating costs and environmental impact (from embodied energy in manufacturing of materials etc.) but may not offer high levels of irrigation efficiency to offset spending on potable water. More complex designs that use drip irrigation may offset more potable water use/cost but may have operational costs (ie. electricity for pump) and a higher initial financial cost and environmental impact from high-tech components. Are the water savings sufficient to justify the proposed system? The answer is “It depends”, but cost/benefit analysis can also be drastically shifted in certain situations such as failing septic system Emergency water shortage Large volumes of graywater Low-tech systems are reliable, save water, and have lower initial costs (≈$500 - $4,000) and low to no operating costs. The fact that they don’t rely on high-tech components and electricity to operate means they have a low environmental impact and their overall net benefit is high. Because high-tech systems are able to use drip irrigation and control the water to a high degree they have the potential to offset significant quantities of potable water use (irrigation water out of the tap), which over time could offer a high return on investment for the more substantial initial costs (≈$1,500 -$8,500) of a high-tech system. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598733374677-YP7E22HC8KJN0ZWEN0L6/systems+graph.jpg Cost Benefit Analysis for Graywater Systems https://www.altwater.org/becoming-an-installer-for-graywater-systems daily 0.75 2020-08-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598734785908-YK5MN63BZOFFLENJEMGW/388748_252580204809610_2003427266_n.jpg Becoming an Installer for Graywater Systems - Graywater Action Regularly offers Online and in-person trainings for installers. Visit their website for upcoming schedules and a wealth of valuable information. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598734979995-EGZOF1SEBO58G3BRUFW9/ALT%2Blogos%2B11.jpg Becoming an Installer for Graywater Systems - ALT Water • 1-2 day (8 hour) abbreviated course. Learn the key points of alternate water-use systems • 5-7 day (40 hour) full course. A comprehensive approach to alternate water. • Train-the-Trainer Course. Learn the tips and extra info on how to teach the course. • Bi-Lingual Course. Taught in Spanish and English. • Training manual. The written version of the course for reference and self-study. • Online Course(s). Take the abbreviated or full versions of the course online. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598735477883-6Q0FZT5Z8NPTRD61JB4R/QWEL_Logo.png Becoming an Installer for Graywater Systems - QWEL The Qualified Water Efficient Landscaper program offers trainings in Irrigation, landscape water conservation and Greywater. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598735667057-0CCWPGGW1HA9X9RMZVG1/AmericanRainwaterlogo.jpg Becoming an Installer for Graywater Systems - ARCSA ARCSA offers trainings in Rainwater Systems Design and Installation. https://www.altwater.org/hiring-an-installer-for-graywater-systems daily 0.75 2020-08-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598739277601-QTAHHW4B3Z4FDK0G8KWI/388748_252580204809610_2003427266_n.jpg Hiring an Installer for Graywater Systems - Graywater Action Operates a database of trained installers to help connect with local installers in your area. Visit their website for details and a wealth of valuable information. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598739645203-5H2VJ5HSSQ4H0PL0H9UO/QWEL_Logo.png Hiring an Installer for Graywater Systems - QWEL Has an online listing platform for QWEL program graduates as well as the QWEL Graywater Module graduates. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598739864234-1SW6JJYA1PEMXFZCJ3RK/LOGO+7%3A23%3A20.png Hiring an Installer for Graywater Systems - Design + Build (Licensed, bonded and insured) • Graywater irrigation & disposal systems (low -tech passive and high-tech filtered) • Rainwater Catchment tanks, and cisterns • Stormwater retention ponds, Raingardens, bio-swales and infiltration earthworks • Ponds for water storage and habitat creation(natural, unlined and lined) • Irrigation Systems and Fire Protection Systems (High-efficiency Smart controlled, Potable and Non-potable, Water Metering (remote monitoring capability and simple sub-metering)) • Irrigation Audits EPA Certified Testing • Landscape Water Conservation Upgrades. Conversion to low-water use plantings, Landscape retrofits or new construction. • Landscape Design/Build. Plantings, Hardscapes, Water Features https://www.altwater.org/presentations-and-webinars-for-graywater-systems daily 0.75 2020-08-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598742561298-IYZQBHCGSEQFUZR9B4UZ/388748_252580204809610_2003427266_n.jpg Presentations and Webinars for Graywater Systems - Graywater Action Webinars https://greywateraction.org/greywater-webinar-recordings/#Greywater%20101 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598743318639-BDE1A6DTDPZP0Z5X1RMS/L2LdvdArt2.0d.jpg Presentations and Webinars for Graywater Systems - Oasis Design A website with a TON of information and educational resources such as DVD’s and books. https://www.altwater.org/videos-and-photos-of-graywater-systems daily 0.75 2020-08-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598748155320-Z6IWAIYVVAAQYKIO4SJR/IMG_0091.jpg Videos and Photos of Graywater Systems https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598748081561-P7ETXNGEXKJFK27BNPT9/IMG_1199.jpg Videos and Photos of Graywater Systems https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598748259826-SI9AJS55G2HPXH3WV4XS/PD1330RCW-13mm-x-30m-Grey-Water-Inline-Drip-Tube-2-680x777.jpg Videos and Photos of Graywater Systems https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598748892408-E9UKZZ52YY4A37OIO5J1/identifypipes.001.jpeg Videos and Photos of Graywater Systems https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598748556581-53O234T49SW021WM6ZU2/image.jpeg Videos and Photos of Graywater Systems https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598748368755-L2WETJ51GZ2RB9BY3QI6/Unfiltered+pumped.001.jpeg Videos and Photos of Graywater Systems https://www.altwater.org/high-tech-systems-copy-copy daily 0.75 2020-08-31 https://www.altwater.org/publications-and-books-for-graywater-systems daily 0.75 2020-08-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598757158137-X0IN8U6IEG4C3NXPNX0H/NCO6coverSM.jpg Publications and Books for Graywater Systems - Create an Oasis with Greywater Revised and Expanded 5th Edition by Art Ludwig. Excellent resource from the inventor of the popular laundry-to-landscape and branched drain systems https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598757355608-57NC1UT436UH1HQ5XSYN/9781612128399.jpg Publications and Books for Graywater Systems - Greywater, Green Landscape by Laura Allen. How-to book with color photographs illustrating design and installation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598757886365-XY5C31C7K14WKSM0R2QE/WWHcover-510x607.jpg Publications and Books for Graywater Systems - The Water Wise Home: How to Conserve, Capture, and Reuse Water in Your Home and Landscape by Laura Allen. Comprehensive how-to design and build residential greywater https://www.altwater.org/helpful-organizations-for-graywater-systems daily 0.75 2020-08-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598758957305-K55YGR4O5O23VNBPPLGN/388748_252580204809610_2003427266_n.jpg Helpful Organizations for Graywater Systems - Graywater Action https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598759091849-NFHT7XBXVDFYSUYHAETM/NCO6coverSM.jpg Helpful Organizations for Graywater Systems - Oasis Design https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598759306603-RBYV2D9LKFZH8NMQO7VN/watershed+progressive.png Helpful Organizations for Graywater Systems - Watershed Progressive https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598759500294-E8M8I73GBAN877SSMTQE/QWEL_Logo.png Helpful Organizations for Graywater Systems - Qualified Water Efficient Landscaper (QWEL) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598759728626-ZAYD3R3P2G6XFPWBP9O4/AmericanRainwaterlogo.jpg Helpful Organizations for Graywater Systems - ARCSA https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598759873276-9G23JUGQ88UD71WT7IBS/242109_220712881279827_7155462_o.jpg Helpful Organizations for Graywater Systems - Urban Permaculture Institute https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598760970771-OYB9JCJ9BOFVVUPZH6XW/DAO-logo-200.jpg Helpful Organizations for Graywater Systems - Daily Acts https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598761147710-HRXI58PBFQ5IFZCPDSQ6/BTClogo-OAEC.jpg Helpful Organizations for Graywater Systems - OAEC Occidental Arts & Ecology Center https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598761342910-63KBJKG82K0BC7NWGFUJ/waternow_alliance_LG-e1484250741512.jpg Helpful Organizations for Graywater Systems - WaterNow https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598761521910-OISXPXAJ24H7776DDNNX/logo-1.jpg Helpful Organizations for Graywater Systems - California Water Efficiency Partnership . https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598761646221-YEWSN7M9WN8GJT125THF/157412.jpg Helpful Organizations for Graywater Systems - Sonoma County Water Agency. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598761876311-KCDZ761637EIOJ59KSVM/adbc0a_e77fde0b8ba24e0ea0d3709a5b3581f6%7Emv2.jpg Helpful Organizations for Graywater Systems - Irrigray system www.WaterReNu.com https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598762034434-1K4SEOEDZZ5EG1CB5ZXY/Volume-1-Cover-4-21-19-2-1.jpg Helpful Organizations for Graywater Systems - Brad Lancaster, Rainwater Harvesting and Beyond https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598764134888-HYAY96H18M9W2DXOT4QN/WebLogo.jpg Helpful Organizations for Graywater Systems - Permaculture Artisans https://www.altwater.org/resources-1 daily 0.75 2020-08-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596325236148-JH6RXGNFBBB9HPLSZDSP/clean%2Bwater%2Bcomponenets.jpg Graywater Resources https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596325788127-CVVCH09OKYLYS4IZXMY1/16700462_1087427111403560_6960891034040364031_o.jpg Graywater Resources https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596326155541-ZXN6EEKR2YL1UHRXK4MQ/etozonemap.jpg Graywater Resources https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596327759448-ISOMGAAYLS6NWEXZKRMQ/IMG_8160.jpg Graywater Resources https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596328170117-LHNAHPOJ37VFYLJLGHJJ/IMG_8185.jpg Graywater Resources https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596326657782-33BAYHWVABLQIL51U6XQ/IMG_8540.jpg Graywater Resources https://www.altwater.org/rainwater-resources daily 0.75 2020-08-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596325788127-CVVCH09OKYLYS4IZXMY1/16700462_1087427111403560_6960891034040364031_o.jpg Rainwater Resources https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596325236148-JH6RXGNFBBB9HPLSZDSP/clean%2Bwater%2Bcomponenets.jpg Rainwater Resources https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596326155541-ZXN6EEKR2YL1UHRXK4MQ/etozonemap.jpg Rainwater Resources https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596327759448-ISOMGAAYLS6NWEXZKRMQ/IMG_8160.jpg Rainwater Resources https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596326657782-33BAYHWVABLQIL51U6XQ/IMG_8540.jpg Rainwater Resources https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596328170117-LHNAHPOJ37VFYLJLGHJJ/IMG_8185.jpg Rainwater Resources https://www.altwater.org/stormwater-resources daily 0.75 2020-08-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596325236148-JH6RXGNFBBB9HPLSZDSP/clean%2Bwater%2Bcomponenets.jpg Stormwater Resources https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596325788127-CVVCH09OKYLYS4IZXMY1/16700462_1087427111403560_6960891034040364031_o.jpg Stormwater Resources https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596326155541-ZXN6EEKR2YL1UHRXK4MQ/etozonemap.jpg Stormwater Resources https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596328170117-LHNAHPOJ37VFYLJLGHJJ/IMG_8185.jpg Stormwater Resources https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596326657782-33BAYHWVABLQIL51U6XQ/IMG_8540.jpg Stormwater Resources https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596327759448-ISOMGAAYLS6NWEXZKRMQ/IMG_8160.jpg Stormwater Resources https://www.altwater.org/reclaimed-water-resources daily 0.75 2020-08-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596325236148-JH6RXGNFBBB9HPLSZDSP/clean%2Bwater%2Bcomponenets.jpg Reclaimed Water Resources https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596326155541-ZXN6EEKR2YL1UHRXK4MQ/etozonemap.jpg Reclaimed Water Resources https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596325788127-CVVCH09OKYLYS4IZXMY1/16700462_1087427111403560_6960891034040364031_o.jpg Reclaimed Water Resources https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596327759448-ISOMGAAYLS6NWEXZKRMQ/IMG_8160.jpg Reclaimed Water Resources https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596328170117-LHNAHPOJ37VFYLJLGHJJ/IMG_8185.jpg Reclaimed Water Resources https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596326657782-33BAYHWVABLQIL51U6XQ/IMG_8540.jpg Reclaimed Water Resources https://www.altwater.org/rainwater daily 0.75 2020-09-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599084234247-F4UEFH11RNI1A6Y4NESC/IMG_3120.jpg Rainwater Basic info about rainwater https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599086386005-682247VT13GZMMN7B9MO/IMG_1154.jpg Rainwater • “Daisy chain” interconnection • Modular, expandable design • Connected “in parallel” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599086693474-BOS9SUQG4XKXAOHNIUKU/IMG_0642.jpg Rainwater Key points to designing a legal and effective system. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599087506859-C02CBLVDD99NYU3ZVN2E/IMG_8600.jpg Rainwater •”Dry” overhead direct conveyance • “Wet” underground conveyance • Incoming line filters https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599089131873-I11LSD0P23O9KITXX119/IMG_3567.jpg Rainwater • Roof footprint dimensions • Conversion from inches of rain to gallons https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599086947590-8B7DDXJYVRVS84I03E70/IMG_6962.jpg Rainwater • Polyethylene tanks • Corrugated Steel Tanks •Modular tanks • Concrete Tanks • Subterranean Tanks https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599160638293-LP92R7SJQARQT0CTZEJB/WDPW01-11.jpg Rainwater • Diverts first rainfall that contains higher amounts of contaminants accumulated on roofs https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599091340811-95W3A911H69Z52VVQ96O/unnamed.png Rainwater • Standing Seam Sheet Metal • Corrugated Sheet Metal • Asphalt tile • Clay tile • Wood shake (not recommended) • Effects on efficiency and purity https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599154431090-MJSCST4XB978S01G71AF/1ec6c2d1aad0cc57d158186b62a75e14.jpg Rainwater https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599154654788-JA32YL15VQ9HWUY1GEA5/P1060884.jpg Rainwater • Jetpumps, submersible pumps, • Pressure tanks, pressure switches • Disc filters, screen filters, floating filters https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599155927051-SYG5R0NZLIA36EVOERHQ/treatment-options-for-rainwater-harvesting-systems-33-728.jpg Rainwater • Non-potable indoor reuse (example: toilet flushing) • Potable indoor reuse (Requires filtration and disinfection) • Chemical, UV disinfection • Filter types https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599155412456-RJPIBQUOEO90J806BFLB/389e7b4e3d371fb478c41d7c86c89508.jpg Rainwater • Float valves • Electric float switches https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599157057468-CITPR4IXA30TFOS6JHB9/94847d2d9b8288cc43995cd5fda5f4e8.jpg Rainwater • Lined and Un-lined ponds, • Swales and Berms • Raingardens, infiltration ponds) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599156261488-BYYAR4J927BR9EFXAJ4A/2018_tanks_guide.jpg Rainwater • Calculating irrigation and domestic water demands • Seasonal Refilling https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599156677036-O1RIGZ903PIJM1M8045U/635732593911870000.jpg Rainwater • Requirements for permitting (varies per jurisdiction) • Concerns of regulators https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596482232546-VS8GCJV6BP1T7WQZ6J7F/integrating.jpg Rainwater • Dual systems vs one integrated control systems • Equipment compatible with greywater •Graywater generated in uncontrollable frequency •Preventing Cross-connection of potable and non-potable water https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596483531784-Y8HMNRYVCBBNJPBCSSH2/tracking.001.jpg Rainwater • Monitoring and adjusting over time • Calculating irrigation water budgets https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599157738487-LSNENH511MYNHOAC8EUD/stormwater.jpg Rainwater • reducing peak flows • runoff filtration • Impacts on watersheds https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599158792196-LMA3US4Y09UIHD8OJS5O/IMG_8540.jpg Rainwater •Training Programs and Certifications •Apprenticeship Opportunities •Required License(s) •Starting your own rainwater business •DIY Systems, Owner/Builder Permits https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596485548835-RCE7AJTGQVRCENWACXZA/IMG_2866%2B%25281%2529.jpg Rainwater •Web Listings of Certified Installers •ALT Water installations •Related trades and contractors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596484694430-4IPW0HSVRGYW8KTNXX3S/GettyImages-492644377-59ee1eecd963ac0010c5df47.jpg Rainwater • simple designs have a lower initial and operating costs •More complex designs may offset more potable water use/cost buthhave operational costs •Are water savings sufficient to justify the proposed system? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599159427130-SZML7I83BL42OJ9BZJE2/field_class1_web.jpg Rainwater • Educational webinars •Training webinars •Upcoming classes and presentations • Photo credit: Brad Lancaster Drylands & Beyond https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599159690852-3TDEXBRRI2ADHO7IHUEP/what-is-rainwater-harvesting.jpg Rainwater • Helpful videos for learning • Pictures of different aspects of systems https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599159899574-5N7A7TM1G77ZOOW89UQV/unnamed-2.jpg Rainwater https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596487628121-2O6PX4J46S0AG9PQTDE9/QWEL%2B-%2BClass%2B1%2B2012.jpg Rainwater https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599160296479-S331IZC3X1SNMQN622BL/Community-facts-and-figs-header.jpg Rainwater •Answers to Frequently asked questions https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599159980368-PO52PHGBAM93CBZR1PB4/Water-related-books-The-Greenman-Project-1024x768-1160x665.jpg Rainwater • Manuals and informational books https://www.altwater.org/introduction-to-rainwater daily 0.75 2020-09-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599165602813-JFLE45I5PQLTH0BZHNLX/water-cycle-natural.jpg Introduction to Rainwater https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599167060454-YZ5RNFN9ZOY48XZNTFVP/LAYERS-OF-ATM2.jpg Introduction to Rainwater - Maybe not so pure… Rain passes through the atmosphere before falling to the ground so it can pick up contaminants in the air. While much rainwater is relatively “pure” (may be even cleaner than the public water supply) you can’t just assume it’s safe to drink. Water intended for drinking needs to be filtered, disinfected, and tested regularly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599166110635-FBRMTKG3I25886NM30SQ/Rain-on-roof.jpg Introduction to Rainwater - Only as clean as the collection surface Rain can wash different types of contaminants off of surfaces into the water you collect, so rainwater that has run off of plants, buildings or other surfaces could pick up toxic substances. Roofing materials, gutters, piping, and storage materials can introduce harmful chemicals like asbestos, lead, and copper to the water, which is why systems must adhere to strict building material standards especially depending on the intended use of the water. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599168124732-MT7B56S4MUQ9LYCNOO7S/measuring-roof.jpg Introduction to Rainwater Measure your roof area by multiplying length x width of the “footprint” area of the roof, as opposed to dimensions of individual roof panels. The same amount of rain falls in a given footprint area regardless of roof pitch (slope). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599169676741-6JZH21EV14ZIH3JSEDGL/4930-14.1-11EI1-2.jpg Introduction to Rainwater Find the annual rainfall for your area in inches. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599164724476-QIYDF97M3KJT7P2P9AJP/GoToWebinar%2B019%2B4.jpg Introduction to Rainwater A 1,000 square foot roof would capture 623 gallons in 1” of rain, or 12,460 gallons in 20” of total annual rainfall (i.e. San Francisco, CA area) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599252367906-PW5LFT8ZDRYZP4VC8KSY/IMG_8511.jpg Introduction to Rainwater - Slow it, spread it, sink it, store it. Rainwater can be stored in deep aquifers, ponds, and tanks of all kinds. When rainwater can't soak into the ground, it runsoff and picks up pollutants that can flow into waterbodies or can overwhelm local combined stormwater/sewage infrastructure causing sewage overflows into open waters. Directing rainwater to passive infiltration areas for groundwater recharge is multilaterally beneficial and can have a huge effect on the local hydrology of groundwater aquifers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599348258104-4ZDYRBYQ5YP12TTR07DJ/IMG_8540.jpg Introduction to Rainwater - Save it for a rainy day Rain is a much inherently cleaner water source than graywater, so it can be stored longterm with minimal to no treatment. Polyethylene tanks, Corrugated Steel Tanks, Subterranean Tanks, Modular tanks and Barrels come in array of sizes and shapes to fit the space you have available, and are generally straightforward to install. Compared to Graywater which is produced year round, in many Mediterranean climates rain only falls during cool winter months when irrigation water isn’t needed anyway, so storage volumes need to be relatively large to approach total replacement of the typical quantities of water required for irrigation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599438221332-M90A9B2ROSXIEQMJ1ZS2/wb3.001.jpeg Introduction to Rainwater - How much you need depends on your water budget Evapotranspiration (ET) is the water loss that occurs from landscape due to weather factors (sunlight, wind, humidity, temperature) composed of evaporation from soil and plant surfaces and transpiration by plants (people sweat, plants transpire). ET rate changes as weather changes and is used to calculate how much irrigation water you need to apply. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599427971507-0RBQJJOB52TV28KPH7LM/fullwidth-slp-uv.jpg Introduction to Rainwater - Rainwater needs to be treated before it is safe for potable use Filtration can remove sediment, metals, and other organic matter but small microorganisms such as bacteria can pass through some filters, requiring a disinfection method: chlorination ultraviolet light (UV) ozonation Chlorination uses the chemical of chlorine in either dry, liquid, or gas to kill microorganisms. It is very effective with viruses and bacteria, especially when large amounts of water will be stored for later use. UV works by disrupting the DNA of microorganisms so that they can’t reproduce, but requires the water to be virtually free of any large sediment which blocks the UV light rays. Ozonation disinfects by introducing ozone gas into the distribution system or in the storage tank. Ozone is a colorless gas that disinfects, oxidizes, deodorizes, and decolorizes but is toxic so this type of system must be done by a licensed professional. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599508347225-6PIKI38ZFITTUS95HYJ0/water+budget+table.001.jpeg Introduction to Rainwater Study of Residential Greywater Irrigation Systems in California: Laura Allen https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599514174554-35IX1N8PVVXHEOJZKHPQ/2018_tanks_guide.jpg Introduction to Rainwater - Store as much as your can Usually the main limitation to rainwater catchment systems is not the amount of water available (≈ 32, 240 gallons annually for an “average” size home roof (2,600 square feet) in Northern California, USA (20” inches annual rainfall)), but rather the amount of physical space for storage or the cost of tank materials. An approximate 2020 average price for a 2,500 gallon polyethylene tank is $1,000.00 USD, so the (13) tanks necessary to store the entire amount of average total rain water available would cost $13,000.00 USD and occupy a physical footprint of 80’ ft x 6’ ft (480 sq ft). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599594358542-GVZ6I3WF0QXPQLO9QEO9/water+tower.001.jpeg Introduction to Rainwater - Under pressure Elevation has an effect on pressure, also called “head”, whereby pressure increases or decreases by .433 pounds per square inch (psi) per each 1 foot of elevation change (2.31 ‘ feet= 1 psi). The water level in a typical 2,500 gallon tank stands about 6 ft tall when full, supplying ≈2.6 psi of pressure at the bottom outlet. Pressure is like the fuel for moving fluid around throughout your system, and ≈2.6 psi is enough for hand watering and some types of drip emitters but is NOT enough to operate typical automatic irrigation valves (solenoid) requiring more pressure for their internal mechanisms to work. There are available however, low-voltage mechanically actuated ball valves that will work with such low operating pressures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1599943157103-8HJXMWO74ZYJBPE2ESJO/Screenshot_2019-04-17_at_1.59.25_PM.jpg Introduction to Rainwater Example setup for a jetpump and treatment system from a rainwater tank. Image credit: RMS https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1596734688310-U7CECJ1MHGCTLPYC3GJX/2.jpeg Introduction to Rainwater - Is rainwater catchment legal? Rainwater collection is allowed in most but not all places. Some states consider rainwater the property of the state and prohibit its collection, so you should consult with your local government (i.e. environmental health department) before planning your system. Many jurisdictions allow tanks under 5,000 gallons installed on grade to be installed without a permit. Systems utilizing a pump will likely be required to install an approved BFPD (backflow prevention device)on their potable water supply to prevent an inadvertent cross connection back into the public supply. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1600115654479-FCNP1TMXCJXSDOKXAK8Q/Figure-2-Different-types-and-shapes-of-rainwater-harvesting-tanks.png Introduction to Rainwater - Different types of tanks Come in almost any size, shape and colour you can imagine. The most common plastic tanks are made of polyethylene, often just called 'poly' tanks. Other types of tanks include: Welded Steel tanks Bolted Steel Tanks Concrete tanks Underground Fiberglass Tanks Carbon Welded Steel Tanks Pillow Tanks Barrels https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ec321c2af33de48734cc929/1589847810059-DD42TW118D0HPYA5VMXV/image-asset.jpeg Introduction to Rainwater https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ec321c2af33de48734cc929/1589847810532-JII23ESHYQCQ1ADQIKPQ/image-asset.jpeg Introduction to Rainwater https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ec321c2af33de48734cc929/1589847810298-OE2TCASTBRN32929CY0H/image-asset.jpeg Introduction to Rainwater https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1600118844769-C8ADRGBHY8BWIF8X30HG/p117.jpg Introduction to Rainwater https://www.altwater.org/our-services daily 0.75 2020-08-31 https://www.altwater.org/our-services/consultation monthly 0.5 2020-08-30 https://www.altwater.org/our-services/education monthly 0.5 2020-08-30 https://www.altwater.org/our-services/design-build monthly 0.5 2020-08-30 https://www.altwater.org/our-services/p/style-01-wb3pe monthly 0.5 2020-08-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598490526721-MIXOH9IUQ1M5LSPR7NKA/IMG_1199.jpg Our Services - Laundry-to-Landscape System https://www.altwater.org/our-services/p/style-02-rdrpc monthly 0.5 2020-08-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598490926892-QTF9Q4P35OWQB2QPTO3U/IMG_2091.jpg Our Services - Branched Drain Graywater System https://www.altwater.org/our-services/p/style-03-sa9jd monthly 0.5 2020-08-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f19da4330981d402f4ba3f1/1598815669242-XI6K3BYEQ7XZJK9DAJ6S/IMG_9803.jpg Our Services - Free Estimate