I don't know how I didn't think of this before, but recently I connected a hose to a downspout that drains condensation from my house's air conditioner. I reposition the hose every once in a while to
water a new area. It currently is flowing about a few drips per second, which keeps the spot it feeds pretty moist for 95 degrees outside. Originally, I was wondering is this safe?, but I found a few articles discussing this use of AC condensation water, and now I just want to encourage others to take advantage of this if you have it.
Here is one site that mentions the use of AC condensation water, with no warnings:
http://landscapeforlife.org/water/use-alternatives-to-municipal-drinking-water-for-irrigation/
This article mentions an issue with a certain microbe (
Legionella) and it
should only be used for sub-surface irrigation where it can't be aerosolized, where it might be inhaled and affect human health.
http://www.environmentalleader.com/2013/01/15/air-conditioning-condensate-recovery/
Another use of this technique:
http://www.chron.com/news/houston-texas/article/Schools-tapping-A-C-condensate-to-conserve-water-2178614.php
Phoenix
Permaculture discussion:
http://www.phoenixpermaculture.org/forum/topics/ac-condensation-drip-water
I just hang a hose from the pipe tied on with some hemp rope, so I can see the flow level and easily remove it if needed. One place estimated about 3-5 gallons per day from this, but I assume it will vary on AC use and air moisture content.
