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Is it Safe to Use Water That Drips From the Air Conditioning to Water Plants?

Air conditioners dehumidify the air, resulting in the condensation of excess water that's drained out of the air conditioner or is collected inside of the appliance. This water, sometimes called gray water, can be used to water plants.
  1. Benefits

    • Recycling water from your air conditioner can be an efficient way to keep your plants happy during dry seasons, to conserve water, or to irrigate your plants during a water ban when residents aren't allowed to water their plants or gardens.

    Methods

    • Air conditioner water can easily be saved for plants by placing a bucket under the appliance to save any water that drains out. If the air conditioner has a separate unit for storing excess water, this unit can be emptied into the garden.

    Caution

    • Air conditioner water is not considered safe for consumption and should never be ingested. In turn, gardeners should also avoid using air conditioner water on herbs, vegetables or flowers meant for consumption.

    Problems

    • Before using air conditioner water on your plants, make sure you haven't used any anti-bacterial or anti-fungal agents in your air conditioner. These chemicals can be dangerous to plants. Air conditioner water may contain high mineral levels, which can harm some plants.