It is time we talked about reclamation and the value of the purple pipe in our modern world. Reclamation is not some hippie term involving open toed sandals, your aura, and hallucinogens. Rather reclaimed water is water that was once potable, that has been recaptured through the magic of our sewer system and somewhat treated. It is not fit for human or animal consumption (not potable) but does have other uses, specifically for landscape irrigation. Although not available to everyone, if your property is separately metered for irrigation, there may be value in using reclaimed water.
Although most properties have a connection to a public sewer system, not everyone has access to reclaimed water. This is where purple pipe comes in. If you look at the pipes at your property, they typically come in three color sets so that your facilities people know instantly with what they are dealing. First, we have potable or drinking water pipes. The labeling for these pipes is green with yellow “Potable” lettering. I have seen green pipe, blue pipe and sometimes even white pipe used for this, all with the potable labeling. If your building has another water pipe, it will be purple (typically sort of a lavender shade). Purple is the designated color for reclaimed water. Black pipe is your sewer lines; you have a decent idea what is in those lines. They are typically black to ensure that, should one develop a leak; the team knows instantly to treat it as hazardous.
Water from storm drains and sewer lines runs to water filtration plants. The water is first combed through to remove any solids and then moved through a series of systems to clean it up. That is the reclamation process. Each step of the process has costs. The final, most expensive step is to make the water safe for human consumption (potable). Just prior to the final processing, the water is fit for irrigation and can be sent to your property as it is safe for certain plants. This matters to you because the last step in reclamation is the most expensive; water that comes to your property via purple pipe can be 60% less per gallon than drinkable water. Cheaper to make means cheaper to buy.
That said, it is always wise to work with a consultant before you start using reclaimed water for your landscaping. Reclaimed water has a different mineral level than potable water. Grass LOVES it. If you have a property with loads of turf, you should roll in that reclaimed water if you can. Not only will your water costs go down, but you will need less fertilizer to get lush green grass. However, reclaimed water can damage certain types of trees and shrubs. Preventing damage to the root structures of these plants sometimes requires additional chemical support.
When you are considering the value of purple pipe, look at the quantity of water used for irrigation, calculate the savings in the rate difference between reclaimed and potable water and then reduce that saving amount by any additional costs you may need to incur to maintain your vegetation. It may change the value proposition or change your decision for what areas of your property on which to deploy purple pipe.
