Frequently Asked Questions...

Reclaimed Water:

Q. Is reclaimed water safe?

A. Reclaimed water is treated so it is safe for incidental human contact such as lawn irrigation.

Q. Is it drinkable?

A. Reclaimed water is not the same as potable water and is not suitable for human consumption.

Q. Can I use it in pools or spas?

A. Reclaimed water is not suitable for human contact, such as bathing, swimming pools or laundry.

Q. How much can I use?

A. Usually, reclaimed water is not metered, therefore there is no limit on it's use. However, over watering is likely to cause problems with your lawn.

Q. When can I water?

A. Watering with reclaimed water is exempt from all watering restrictions.

Q. What pressure will be available?

A. Pressures will vary somewhat based on the about of water being used in your area; however, it is estimated that 50psi will be minimum pressure.

Q. Can I have a hose for reclaimed water?

A. Hoses are allowed with the provision that special fittings are installed according to the current ordinances.

Q. What is the service line size?

A. The reclaimed water service line is generally 3/4 inch.

Q. Can I use reclaimed water for water to air a/c?

A. Yes if all of the water is then used for irrigation with no return to the sewer, no return to a well, and no discharge to a canal, ditch or pond.

Q. Can I use reclaimed water for toilet flushing?

A. Under certain conditions, including metering for sewer billing and other restrictions. 

Q. Does reclaimed water smell or stain?

A. No.

Q. What can I water with reclaimed water?

A. All ornamental plants, trees, turfs and grasses may be watered.  

Q. Can I water food crops?

A. Food crops that are to be peeled or cooked can be watered by any method. "Salad" crops should be watered in a manner so as to avoid getting water on the plant/leaves.

Q. Do I have to abandon my well?

A. There can be no interconnection between the reclaimed water system and any other system. The well may remain but must be physically disconnected from the reclaimed water piping. Reclaimed water may not be used within 100 feet of all potable water wells.

Q. Can I wash my car?

A. Yes. Towel drying will help to prevent water spots.

Q. Is connection to the reclaimed water system required?

A. No.

Q. Why must I pay for reclaimed water when I already pay for sewer?

A. The monthly sewer bill is for the treatment of sewage. Providing reclaimed water for irrigation involves additional costs above and beyond those for the treatment of sewage.

Q. How much money will I save on my water and sewer bill?

A. Savings depends on your current total usage of water and how much of that will be displaced by using reclaimed water for irrigation.

Q. Is there any salt in reclaimed water?

A. The salt content in reclaimed water varies with location.  Since some plants are intolerant to salt, ask your Citrus County Agriculture and Extension Service for information by calling 726-2141.

Q. Are modifications to my house or plumbing needed for reclaimed water?

A. An approved cross connection control device is required on the potable water line serving any property receiving reclaimed water. Contact your water supplier for details. Reclaimed water piping must be completely isolated, disconnected, and separate from all potable water lines.

You can contact the Environmental Protection Agency for more information.

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