Utah Admin. Code 317-401-9
APPENDIX A. RECOMMENDED BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES.
The use of plant friendly products is important when using graywater for irrigation. Products should be salt and borax free in addition to being biodegradable and non-toxic. Plant friendly products are key when reusing graywater. Chlorine bleach can be harmful to plants and should be diverted to your sewer system. Hydrogen peroxide based products can be used instead of bleach. The pH of your graywater also needs to be considered. Most soaps do not change the pH but some do. Liquid soaps typically do not change the pH of graywater. Bar soaps can make the water very basic. Choosing plants that are not affected by pH is best if you are not sure if the pH is being affected by the products you typically use. Graywater systems are not maintenance free and require consistent and frequent inspection by the owner to ensure proper functionality.
Graywater can clog drip systems without proper filtration and regular maintenance. Either remove solid particles from the water (by filtering or settlement) or increase the diameter of the holes in the irrigation pipe. It is recommended that drip irrigation hoses with small outlets not be used for graywater irrigation unless the solid particles have been removed.
It may be necessary to replace mulch, flush soil with potable or fresh water periodically during extended periods of no rain in order to disperse minerals, such as salts from building up. Check for these issues and adjust graywater output accordingly:
APPENDIX B. INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE.
TABLE 10
Graywater System Inspection and Maintenance Frequency
Inspection and Maintenance Item Inspect and clean filters and screens, replacing where necessary | Frequency Every 3 months |
Inspect and verify that disinfection, filters, and water quality treatment devices and systems are operational and maintaining minimum water quality requirements | In accordance with manufacturer's instructions and the regulatory authority |
Inspect pumps and verify operation | After initial installation and every 12 months thereafter |
Inspect valves and verify operation | After initial installation and every 12 months thereafter |
Inspect pressure tanks and verify operation | After initial installation and every 12 months thereafter |
Inspect and clear debris from storage tanks, locking devices, and verify operation | After initial installation and every 12 months thereafter |
Inspect caution labels and markings | After initial installation and every 12 months thereafter |
Inspect for cross-connections and test entire system | After initial installation and every 12 months thereafter |
Inspect and maintain mulch basins | As needed to maintain mulch depth and prevent ponding and runoff |
Utah Admin. Code R317-401-9