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Water condensed by air conditioning can be reused in a sustainable and economical way. Discover creative and practical ways to take advantage of this resource.
In Brazil, where the hot climate predominates, the use of air conditioning has been growing rapidly every year. Currently, there are around 36 million units installed, but by 2050, that number is expected to jump to a staggering 160 million, representing an increase of almost 350%.
The projection, released by International Energy Agency (IEA), only considers the impact of GDP growth. Worldwide, the scenario is also numerous, with the total number of devices installed rising from 2 billion to 5,5 billion devices in the same period.
During the hot summer months, air conditioning units become indispensable allies in combating the heat.
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However, many people don't realize that in addition to cooling environments, they also produce a valuable byproduct: water.
The liquid dripping from the drain of the air conditioning It may seem like something worthless, but its potential for reuse is very surprising. Let's explore how this water is generated, its properties and how to use it effectively.
Why is water coming out of the air conditioner?
The operation of air conditioning is based on physical and chemical processes that involve cooling the internal air.
The refrigerant fluid present in the device absorbs heat from the environment through a unit called an evaporator.
During this process, the hot air cools and the relative humidity increases, until it reaches the dew point.
At this point, the water vapor present in the air condenses, forming small droplets that accumulate at the base of the evaporator. This water, which has no direct use for the operation of the device, is eliminated through the drain.
Is the water drinkable?
The short answer is no. Although the water coming out of the air conditioner is technically “pure” because it originates from condensed water vapor, it is not safe for human or animal consumption.
As it passes through the air conditioning system, water comes into contact with filters, collection trays and hoses that may contain dust, bacteria and other contaminants.
Studies confirm that this water is unfit for drinking, but it can be used safely in a variety of non-potable activities.
UFPB study proves the potential
Researchers from Federal University of Paraiba (UFPB) carried out a study between 2018 and 2020 which showed that water generated by air conditioning units can be used for purposes such as washing floors, watering plants and flushing toilets.
Analysis of the collected water showed that its parameters comply with standard NBR 16.783/2019, which regulates the use of alternative water sources.
This means that with simple treatments such as filtration and chlorination, it can be safe for uses that do not involve human consumption.
The researchers also observed that the volume of water generated varies depending on the power of the devices.
For example, 7.500 BTU units produce about 0,20 liters per hour, while larger 80.000 BTU units can produce up to 6,81 liters per hour. This may seem like a small amount, but when accumulated over a period of days or weeks, it adds up to a significant amount.
How to reuse air conditioning water
Air conditioning water can be used in a variety of practical and sustainable ways. Here are some ideas:
- Gardening: Use the water to water plants that do not require drinking water, such as gardens or mini-vegetable gardens.
- Cleaning: It is an excellent option for washing floors, yards or even utensils that do not come into direct contact with food.
- Reservoirs: Divert the drain pipe to a water tank or cistern, and use this water to supply watering cans, hoses or smaller reservoirs.
- Vehicle Maintenance: Water is useful for filling the windshield wiper reservoir or for washing the car.
In Pernambuco, Law 16.584/19 already regulates the use of condensed water from air conditioning systems in public and private buildings. The legislation requires that the water be collected and reused for non-potable activities. In Recife, some shopping malls and construction material stores have already adopted this practice, contributing to the conservation of water resources.
The sustainable context
In a world where the search for sustainable solutions is increasingly urgent, reusing air conditioning water represents a viable and efficient alternative.
Condensed water, which was previously discarded without any use, can now be an ally in saving natural resources.
A clear example is the use of water in regions with water scarcity, where every liter saved makes a difference.
This practice is also aligned with global sustainability initiatives, such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which encourage the responsible management of water and other natural resources.
Small changes, such as installing collection systems in residential and commercial buildings, can have a significant impact in the long term.
Necessary care when reusing
Despite the potential for reuse, it is essential to adopt safety measures when handling air conditioning water. Make sure that collection systems are clean and well maintained to prevent the accumulation of dirt or the proliferation of bacteria.
Furthermore, never use this water in applications involving human consumption, such as food preparation or hydration of people and animals.
In a typical home, air conditioning water can be stored in a bucket and used to water plants daily.
In condominiums or commercial buildings, larger systems can redirect water to cisterns, which can be used for various activities, such as cleaning common areas or watering gardens.
The idea of reusing water from air conditioning may seem small, but it exemplifies how simple, often overlooked resources can make a big difference.
With growing awareness about sustainability and water conservation, turning “waste” into a solution is a step forward in environmental conservation.
I use it on the car radiator.
I use it to fill the car's radiator
It serves many purposes, people have to learn to reuse water to avoid waste.
Here at home, it goes straight to the washing machine, and consequently I wash clothes with it. The water that comes out of the machine, I store in a pipe, and use it to flush (manually) the bathroom, occasionally, and wash the area where the **** is. Later, I want to raise the height of the tank, and connect it directly to the flush supply, to use water twice, one to wash clothes, and this same water, after the machine, goes directly to the toilet coupled assembly.
Condensed water is not so good for watering plants because it does not contain **** salts.
Pode usar nas reposições da água de bateria