Category: How To

Understanding Greywater Systems; A Sustainable Water Solution

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Understanding Greywater Systems; A Sustainable Water Solution

As water conservation becomes increasingly important, greywater systems are gaining popularity as an eco-friendly way to reuse household water. They are already very popular in RV water systems. But what exactly is greywater, and how can it be used safely and effectively? In this guide, we’ll explore greywater systems and answer common questions about their usage.

What is a Greywater System?

A greywater system is designed to collect, filter, and distribute gently used water from household sources such as sinks, showers, bathtubs, and washing machines. Unlike blackwater, which comes from toilets and contains sewage, greywater is relatively clean and can be repurposed for irrigation, toilet flushing, and other non-potable applications.

Greywater systems help reduce freshwater consumption, lower utility bills, and minimize wastewater discharge, making them a sustainable option for homeowners.

A greywater tank is used to collect and store greywater before it is reused or dispersed. These tanks can be part of a filtration system that removes debris and contaminants, ensuring the water is safe for irrigation or other permitted uses. Some greywater tanks come equipped with pumps to facilitate distribution to gardens or toilet systems.

How Often Do You Empty a Greywater Tank?

Unlike septic tanks, greywater tanks do not store water long-term. They are designed for short-term holding before the water is used or filtered out. If the system is properly designed and maintained, the tank will not need frequent emptying, as greywater should ideally be used or absorbed within 24 hours to prevent odors and bacterial growth.

What Can’t Greywater Be Used For?

While greywater is a valuable resource, there are limitations to its use. Greywater should not be used for:

– Drinking or cooking

– Washing dishes or laundry

– Watering edible plants (unless applied safely through subsurface irrigation)

– Any use that involves direct human contact without proper filtration

Can You Use Greywater to Flush Toilets?

Yes! One of the most efficient ways to repurpose greywater is by using it to flush toilets. Some systems are designed to automatically divert greywater to toilet tanks, reducing the amount of potable water needed for flushing.

Can You Put Greywater on the Ground?

Greywater can be safely used for landscape irrigation if it is properly distributed through a drip or subsurface irrigation system. However, it should not be dumped on the ground surface, as it may attract pests, cause pooling, or create unpleasant odors. Some jurisdictions have specific regulations regarding greywater disposal, so it’s essential to check local guidelines.

Greywater treated by a salt-based water softener is not suitable for reuse outside because it contains high levels of salt. Salt can harm plants and soil. 

Can I Use Greywater If I Have a Water Softener?

Using greywater from a water softener can be tricky. Softened water contains high levels of sodium, which can harm soil and plants if used for irrigation. If you have a water softener, consider installing a bypass system to prevent excessive salt levels in your greywater.

Salt-based softeners are banned in many areas of California. Salt-free water softeners are generally legal in California and other areas. It is best to research you state’s requirements!

Water softeners are legal in Canada. “Because water softening by sodium ion exchange may introduce undesirably high quantities of sodium into drinking water, it is recommended that where such a process is employed, a separate unsoftened supply be retained for drinking and culinary purposes.”

The Hardness NG Store offers a salt-free water softener safe for greywater systems. The mesh filter removes debris, while the cartridge tackles hardness, chlorine, sediment, iron, and more and is big enough to soften the water of your whole house.

What is a Laundry-to-Landscape System? Will It Hurt My Washing Machine?

A laundry-to-landscape (L2L) system is a simple, cost-effective greywater solution that diverts water from your washing machine directly to your outdoor landscape. These systems typically do not require filters, pumps, or storage tanks, making them easy to install and maintain.

L2L systems do not harm washing machines because they operate as an external drainage option rather than altering the internal mechanisms of the appliance. However, it’s important to use biodegradable, plant-friendly detergents to avoid harming soil and plants.

How to Use the PTLevel in a Greywater System

The PTLevel is a valuable tool for monitoring water levels in greywater tanks, ensuring efficient usage and preventing overflow or stagnation. By installing a PTLevel in your greywater system, you can:

+ Monitor water levels remotely to ensure the tank is neither too full nor too empty.

+ Receive alerts when water reaches critical levels, preventing overflow or insufficient supply.

+ Optimize greywater usage by tracking consumption patterns and adjusting irrigation or flushing schedules accordingly.

+ Improve system maintenance by identifying potential clogs or leaks before they become major issues.

Greywater Tank System

Greywater Tank Monitoring System

High/low alerts, history graphs, up to 1km range.

Monitor water, chemicals, and any consistent density liquid.

Tanks as small at 18″ deep, or as large at 18′.

With its wireless connectivity and real-time monitoring capabilities, the PTLevel is an excellent addition to any greywater system, helping homeowners and businesses manage their water resources more effectively.

Simply connect your PTLevel to your WiFi, lower the pressure chamber into the tank, and start receiving your data! Don’t forget to update your tank depth settings, calibrate if desired, and adjust your reporting settings (if you select a battery-powered PTLevel).

Greywater Systems in RVs and Houses

Household and RV greywater systems serve the same general purpose—reusing wastewater from sinks, showers, and laundry to reduce water waste—but they differ in design, complexity, and application due to space, plumbing, and regulatory considerations.

Greywater Systems in Houses

– Permanent Plumbing Integration – Residential greywater systems are often built into the home’s plumbing, directing wastewater from sinks, showers, and washing machines to specific reuse applications.

– Filtration & Treatment – Some homes have filtration systems to remove debris and bacteria, making the water safer for irrigation. More advanced systems use biological filters or UV treatment for indoor reuse (e.g., toilet flushing).

– Landscape Irrigation – Most common use; greywater is diverted to garden irrigation, underground drip systems, or constructed wetlands.

– Legal Considerations – Many areas require permits, with restrictions on soap types, storage time, and treatment methods.

Greywater Systems in RVs

– Greywater Holding Tanks – RVs typically have a dedicated greywater tank to store wastewater from sinks and showers, which must be emptied at dump stations.

– Basic Filtration (Optional) – Some RV owners add mesh filters or homemade systems to remove large particles before disposal or limited reuse.

– Limited Reuse – Greywater in RVs is usually not directly reused, but some off-grid travelers use it for flushing toilets or minimal irrigation (where permitted).

– Drainage Regulations – Many campgrounds and public lands prohibit direct greywater dumping, requiring responsible disposal.

Final Thoughts

Greywater systems offer an excellent way to conserve water and reduce environmental impact. Whether you’re looking to install a full greywater filtration system or a simple laundry-to-landscape setup, understanding the proper usage and regulations will help you maximize the benefits while maintaining safety and efficiency.

How to Monitor Underground Cistern Levels

Underground water cistern
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How to Monitor Underground Cistern Levels

Monitoring the water level in your underground cistern is crucial for efficient water management, detecting leaks early, and ensuring you never run out of water unexpectedly. Traditional methods of checking water levels can be tedious and time-consuming, especially during uncomfortable weather conditions. However, technology now provides convenient solutions to monitor your cistern’s water level accurately and efficiently. One such solution is the PTLevel Water Level Monitor, designed to overcome the common issues associated with monitoring underground cisterns such as range, weather resistance, and installation challenges.

Understanding the Challenges of Underground Water Level Monitoring

Underground cisterns, often surrounded by concrete walls and lids, pose significant challenges for wireless communication. Signals can be weakened or blocked entirely, making it difficult to get accurate readings. However, the PTLevel Water Level Monitor offers an effective solution to this problem. Designed and built in Canada, the PTLevel uses high-quality electronic components combined with stellar antenna design plus years of testing and improvements.

Overcoming Range Issues in Underground Water Level Monitoring

The PTLevel Water Level Monitor is specifically designed to handle the challenging conditions of underground cisterns. The Long Range Wireless PTLevel boasts a range of over 1km from your WiFi signal, making it an ideal choice for large properties or remote cisterns. Just plug in and install the Receiver inside your home where you have a strong WiFi signal. Then install the battery-powered Transmitter at your tank up to 1km away.

Even when dealing with obstacles like cement walls, the PTLevel Water Level Monitor maintains a reliable connection. While the range may be slightly reduced when the signal must pass through cement walls or underground barriers, the device’s robust communication capabilities ensure that you receive accurate water level readings.

Free PTDevices Account

No monthly fees for the standard account! Access 2 free alert points with email and SMS, 1 month of running history, share with your water delivery company…

Upgrade to Premium to access more features, more history, more alerts…

Learn More About Your PTDevices Account
PTLevel Liquid Level History

Key Features of PTLevel Water Level Monitor

Long Range Capability: With a range of over 1km, the PTLevel Water Level Monitor can communicate effectively over long distances, making it suitable for various property sizes.

Reliable Underground Communication: The device is designed to maintain a strong signal even when located underground or behind cement walls, ensuring consistent and accurate readings.

Easy Installation and Monitoring: Setting up the PTLevel Water Level Monitor is straightforward, and you can easily monitor your cistern’s water level using the accompanying mobile app or web interface. It is designed to be easily installed yourself!

Benefits of Using PTLevel Water Level Monitor

Convenience: No need for manual checks; monitor your cistern’s water level remotely from anywhere. Use the App for Android for iOS or use the webApp (ptdevices.com) from any device including computers, tablets, etc.

Notifications: Receive high and low level notifications at levels set by you, alerts are sent via email or SMS (2 free notification points)

Accuracy: Get precise water level readings, helping you manage your water resources more effectively.

History: View up to 1 month of history. No monthly fees! Or, upgrade to the Premium Account for up to 2 years of water level history

Peace of Mind: Never worry about running out of water unexpectedly. The PTLevel Water Level Monitor alerts you when water levels are low. You can also share your ptdevices account with your water delivery company.

Long Range Wireless PTLevel

Made in Canada with chemical-resistant, weather-resistant parts for outdoor, underground liquid level monitoring.

Learn More
Long Range Wireless PTLevel Kit

Conclusion

Monitoring your underground cistern’s water level is essential for effective water management. The PTLevel Water Level Monitor, with its long-range wireless capabilities and reliable performance even through obstacles, is the perfect solution for overcoming the challenges of underground cistern monitoring.

How do I know how much water is in my cistern?

Well Water Level Monitoring
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People commonly use water cisterns in areas without municipal water supply systems. Some cisterns sit on top of houses, while many are underground. However, they all face the same problem: How do you determine the water level in them?

How to find out how much water is in your cistern:

There are several ways to determine the water level in your water cistern. Here are a few methods:

1. Visual Inspection:

If your tank has a transparent or translucent material, you may be able to visually inspect the water level. If it doesn’t, you can still often open the lid and look in to get an idea of the remaining water level.

2. Dipstick:

Using a long rod or stick, commonly referred to as a dipstick, insert it into the cistern until it reaches the bottom. When you pull it out, the wet portion indicates the water level.

You can take this a step further and calculate the volume of your cistern too! For rectangular prism cisterns, just measure the length (L) by the width (W) by the height (h), where height equals the full depth of water. Measurements in cm divided by 1000 gives volume in litres. Measurements in feetx6.2 gives volume in imperial gallons. Use our free tank volume calculator.

3. Float Valve or Float Switch:

Some tanks are equipped with float valves or float switches that automatically control the water level. The position of the float can give you an indication of the water level.

4. Ultrasonic Sensors:

Ultrasonic sensors can measure the distance between the sensor and the water surface, providing an accurate measurement of the water level.

5. Pressure Sensors:

Pressure sensors can be installed at different heights in the tank to measure the pressure exerted by the water. This information can be used to estimate the water level.

6. Smart Monitoring Systems:

Installing a smart monitoring system like the PTLevel can provide real-time information about the water level in your cistern. Simply put your total tank depth in the settings, calibrate the device, and then enjoy real-time level readings whenever you need them.

The PTLevel liquid level monitor comes with level history, water level notifications, the ability to share your account with your water delivery company, and many more features. All this along with a 2 year warranty, 30 day returns, and the confidence of a robust, weather-resistant product made in Canada.

Choosing a method to determine cistern levels:

Choose a method that is practical and feasible for your specific cistern setup. If you’re unsure if the PTLevel will work for your solution, reach out to our technicians here.

PTLevel Wired WiFi
PTLevel in ice storm
Long Range Wireless PTLevel designed to be weather resistant

Stormwater Management; Depth and Temperature Control

Temperature Sensor
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What is a Stormwater Management System?

A stormwater retention pond, also known as a detention pond or stormwater management pond, is a artificial basin designed to capture and temporarily hold stormwater runoff and often requires depth and temperature monitoring. Stormwater runoff occurs when rainwater or melted snow flows over impervious surfaces. Runoff from roads, parking lots, and rooftops cannot be absorbed into the ground.

The primary purpose of a stormwater retention pond is to control the flow of stormwater and reduce the risk of flooding. It achieves this by temporarily storing the excess water and releasing it at a controlled rate. As a result, this allows for gradual discharge into the natural drainage system. The pond also enables sedimentation, allowing suspended particles to settle out before releasing the water.

Typically, designers of stormwater retention ponds incorporate specific features such as an inlet structure to collect runoff, an outlet structure to release controlled flows, and a pond basin that can hold water during storm events. They may also integrate vegetation into the design to help stabilize the banks and improve water quality through natural processes.

Stormwater Management Monitoring Requirements

Many cities, regions, counties, and provinces or states have their own requirements for stormwater monitoring. They require these to demonstrate that the facilities are functioning as designed. Location-specific assessments should determine the scope, approach, frequency, and extent of the monitoring program for stormwater management facility performance. This ensures that the program is not over- or under-scoped (eg. it is the right size for the site). Specifically, depth and temperature monitoring are often part of the stormwater monitoring requirements.

Stormwater Depth Monitoring

In Niagara, Ontario there is a requirement for depth monitoring at the inlet and outlet of the stormwater facility.

Stormwater quantity monitoring to verify stormwater management facility performance shall be completed as required by the Local Municipality and/or Region. Depth probes shall be installed at the inlet and outlet of the stormwater management facility to determine the operating water surface elevations within the facility during storm events. The water surface elevations shall be correlated to storage and discharge rates based upon the stormwater management facility rating curve as determined by the as-built survey of the facility after cleanout and prior to assumption by the Local Municipality or Region.
Available rainfall data shall be used to determine the corresponding return period of the storm event, for comparison and verification of the operating water levels within the facility. Where required by the Municipality and/or Region, the approved hydrologic models shall be updated to represent the as-built condition of the stormwater management facility and contributing drainage area, and hydrologic analyses completed to verify the stormwater management facility performance.
Stormwater Management Guidelines, Project No. TPB208013, Niagara Region, Page 113

To find out what stormwater monitoring requirements for depth and temperature are required in your area, reach out to your local authority.

Stormwater Quality Monitoring – Temperature

Various factors, including the temperature of the rain, the surface it falls on, and ambient environmental conditions, can influence the temperature of stormwater. Generally, when rainwater falls, it tends to be close to the temperature of the atmosphere it is falling through.

However, the temperature of stormwater can change after it comes into contact with surfaces like roads, parking lots, or buildings. The surfaces can absorb and retain heat, causing the stormwater to increase in temperature.

In our region, stormwater temperature monitoring is sometimes required at the upstream and downstream. The actual requirements are based on pre-consultation with the Region and relevant authorities.

To find out what stormwater monitoring requirements for depth and temperature are required in your area, reach out to your local authority.

The Solution

We’re excited to announce the launch of the PTLevel Water Level Monitor with Temperature Probe. The Wired WiFi PTLevel provides monitoring for water depth and temperature data for stormwater systems, updating to the cloud every 2 minutes. It is an affordable solution made in Ontario, Canada (worldwide shipping available).

Having automatic and instant data collection can:

save manpower hours with water collection methods
prevent safety issues by eliminating unsafe water collection in high/low water periods
supply valuable graphs with level and temperature trends
provide alerts at concerning high or low temperatures and high or low levels

(The Long Range Wireless PTLevel with a temperature probe is coming soon! In addition to the temperature probe, the Long Range Wireless PTLevel has up to 1 km of range)

The temperature probe can be installed into liquid, attached to a pipe, or simply installed to measure ambient temperatures.

The pressure chamber (for depth) and temperature probe can provide stormwater monitoring in clean or dirty liquids. Examples include polluted stormwater systems, turbid environments, or stormwater systems with debris such as garbage or leaves.

Order here for same or next day shipping.

Temperature Sensor

How to clean a cistern

Cement Cistern
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How to clean a cistern

Whether you have a plastic or cement cistern, rain water collection system, or other water tank; consistent and regular maintenance is important to maintain clean and safe water.  We highly recommend you consider hiring a professional to clean your tank. They often have experience and tools that are just unmatched by the DIY’er.  But if you’re up for the challenge, here are some frequently asked questions about how to clean a cistern to help you tackle the job yourself!

How to clean your cistern
Frequently asked questions on how to clean your cistern

Question: How often should a cistern be cleaned?

Answer: The quick answer is, you should be cleaning your cistern yearly. But there are a variety of factors that can affect the cleanliness of a cistern. Cisterns get “dirty” for several reasons such as hauled water vs rain water collection, different climates, and the material the cistern is made out of (cement vs plastic tank). Because of these reasons, cisterns will need to be cleaned more or less often.

Generally, if you only have water hauled to you and you are not collecting any water that isn’t already purified in some way, your cistern will need to be cleaned less often, likely every 2-3 years. This also depends on local contaminants and the material your cistern is made out of.

If you are collecting rain water, your cistern should be cleaned more often. Usually cleaning is recommended yearly but you may want to clean the cistern more frequently.

Different climates can also affect bacteria levels, sediments, and other water contaminants. Since there are too many climates to mention, it is best to do your own research on your climate to determine what contaminants may be affecting your water.

And finally, the material your cistern is made out of may also affect the frequency of a needed cistern cleaning. A cement cistern is porous, and will likely contribute to more sediment and sludge. A plastic tank will still need to be cleaned regularly and may be more prone to algae build up.

Always clean your cistern if the water starts to look, smell, or taste different.

Question: How do you clean a cistern?

Answer: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has a written a great article on the subject. Please visit here for their maintenance advice on cisterns and other rain catchment systems.

Step 1. Remove all debris and water from the cistern as well as debris from water collection points (eg if you collect rain water, clean your eaves troughs). This step applies to all cisterns, wells, rain water collection systems, and other liquid tanks.

Step 2. For cement cisterns, scrub the inside of the cistern with a stiff brush and a solution of 1 cup of bleach mixed with 10 gallons of water. Since bleach isn’t recommended for plastic cisterns, contact the manufacturer of your plastic cistern, or read the instruction manual on what your manufacturer recommends. Be mindful of your air quality when you’re in a cistern! Breathing in fumes from chemicals can be dangerous, and sometimes even fatal. Always read and follow all instructions on the materials you are using.

Step 3. Rinse cistern with clean, safe water, and then drain. If you still smell bleach, rinse the tank once or twice more.

Step 4. Refill the cistern with clean, safe water.

When it doubt, reach out to a professional to have your cistern cleaned. Cistern cleaning professionals have the tools, experience, and knowledge to do a great job for you! They can often use a pressure washer, reducing the need for chemicals as well as use a wet vacuum to suck out all debris and sludge. The professionals will inspect your cistern for cracks and other defects. Go to Google Maps, and then type in “cistern cleaners near me” to find some local providers.

Question: Can I use bleach in my cistern?

Answer: If you have a cement cistern, bleach is often the recommended chemical to use for cleaning, and sometimes even maintaining clean water. You can do your own research on whether you feel like bleach is the right solution for you, but here are the recommended solutions:

For cleaning: 1 cup of bleach per 10 gallons of water
For maintenance: 1 tablespoon of 5%-8.25% liquid bleach for every 100 gallons of water

Bleach is not recommended for plastic cisterns or tanks.

Question: Do all cisterns need to be cleaned?

Answer: Yes. Cisterns are designed to hold standing water and whenever there is standing water there is opportunity for bacteria growth and dirt and debris to collect. Also, wildlife will often find a way to get into water systems which can create even more risk for bacteria growth and debris that you don’t want to drink or use.

We hope some of these questions and answers were helpful to you.  If you’re looking for a water level monitoring solution, please check out our products page here.

How often should I test the water in my cistern?

It is recommended that you test  the water in your cistern seasonally for routine monitoring. You should also test the water any time the water quality changes (for example if the water starts to look, smell, or taste different).

What tools do I need to clean my cistern?

You may want the following tools and equipment to make the process of cleaning your cistern easier. Ladder, rubber boots (or hip waders if you have them), pump, soft scrubbing brushes, pressure washer, wet/dry ShopVac, flat shovel, buckets, bleach or chlorine, and rubber gloves.

You may also want to consider having patches on-hand for this process (concrete patch/hydraulic cement for cement cisterns) . If you come across any cracks or leaks in your cistern, this will be a great time to repair those holes!

How do I calculate how much water is in my cistern?

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