Reclaimed Water - FAQ
Q: What Is Reclaimed Water And Why Use It?
A: Reclaimed water is cleaned waste water. It is the product of advanced treatment that eliminates by-products harmful for irrigation use while retaining beneficial elements such as phosphorous and nitrogen. These elements work as fertilizers to nourish plant growth. Using reclaimed water conserves drinking water and creates a new source for irrigation.
Q: Is Reclaimed Water Safe For Irrigation?
A: YES. To ensure safety, high standards and sophisticated controls are incorporated during the wastewater treatment process at the Pinellas County Wastewater Treatment Plant. Within the City, numerous communities already receive reclaimed water service for outdoor irrigation purposes. As the City continues to expand its reclaimed water distribution system, more communities will benefit from this resource while protecting and conserving our freshwater (potable) drinking water for home and business uses.
Q: Do I have to paint my pipes?
A: YES. All pipe and apparatus above ground must be painted or labeled, "Do Not Drink-Reclaimed Water". (Purple-"PANTONE 522-C"; Paint can be purchased at paint stores, hardware stores, Home Depot, Builders Square, Etc.
Q: Can I use hose bibs?
A: NO. Hose bibs or open connections are not allowed.
Q: Do I have to be there for the inspection?
A: Customer is required to be there for inspections, other than hose connection at point of service (round box); Although, access to the whole property is required.
Q: Do I have to have a re-inspection?
A: Reinspections are required annually in addition to any substantial changes to the irrigation system are required for reinspection.
FAQ List
Q: How much notice do I have to give for an inspection?
A: Please allow one (-1) day notice for inspections if at all possible.
Q: Can I use PVC pipes for my irrigation system?
A: Yes.
Q: Where do I leave my hose so the City can put the coupling on it?
A: The city provides a hose adapter in the round box so that your ordinary garden hose can be connected to the reclaimed service.
FAQ List
Q: Is reclaimed water safe?
A: Yes. Physical contact with reclaimed water is not known to have any negative effects; being splashed or sprayed by the water should not be cause for alarm. However, remember that
- reclaimed water is primarily used for irrigation and is not for consumption or sanitary purposes, and
- irrigation should occur at a time when human or animal contact is least likely.
Q: Will it hurt my plants?
A: Yes -- "Some plants and shrubbery" are sensitive to reclaimed water. Check with your local nursery for this information.
Q: Can I wash my car with reclaimed water?
A: No.
Q: Do I need a pressure reducing valve on my irrigation system?
A: No, it is not required; However, if you have an old system, it's recommended as the city is not responsible for your system.
Q: Do I need a wye-strainer?
A: No, it is not required . However, the customer my install a wye strainer if they so desire.
Q: How much pressure is on the reclaimed water?
A: The pressure is about 90 PSI; it may go as high as 110 PSI.
Q: When can I water with the reclaimed water?
A: Anytime. There are no restrictions. We just ask that you do not let it pond or run off the curb.
Q: What's the water used for?
A: The reclaimed water is only used for lawn irrigation.
Q: Can I wash my sidewalk and driveway off with it?
A: No.
Q: Can I use it on my edible garden?
A: Yes, if the food is peeled, skinned, cooked or thermally processed before consumption.
Q: Can my pets drink it?
A: No. It is not for human or animal consumption.
Q: Can I use reclaimed water for my swimming pool or spa?
A: No.
Q: Can I put a hose bib on in my back yard?
A: There are no hose bibs allowed. You can put a quick connection or cam-lock fitting in the ground with a control valve and valve box "clearly labeled or painted purple."
General Information:
Reclaimed Division
Employees: 6
Budget: $510,730.00
Daily Flow: 2.75 Million Gallons/Day
Metered Services: 6,469
Miles of Mainlines: 98
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