Air conditioning water is a precious resource: reuse it like this

 

In summer, as we all know, the air conditioner is the most commonly used appliance to cope with heat waves.

What we end up with, however, are dry containers or tanks full of water that would be a shame to waste! Often considered simply “waste,” air conditioner water can become a valuable resource thanks to various reuse methods .

This liquid is formed through the process of condensation : moist air passes through the cold coils of the air conditioner causing the moisture to separate in the form of water droplets.

Although this water is free of minerals and impurities, it is not drinkable without proper treatment. However, it can be useful in many contexts (in the home and garden), from watering plants to cleaning.

Running the air conditioner isn’t a very eco-friendly choice because it consumes a significant amount of energy; it’s therefore best to try to make it as environmentally friendly as possible; this includes recycling the water in the air conditioner itself to avoid further water waste .

What is air conditioner water made of?

Have you ever taken a nice cold drink out of the fridge and noticed droplets forming around the container in a short time? The same thing happens with water from the air conditioner.

The water in your air conditioner is actually formed through a process of condensation. When warm, humid air passes through the cold coils of your air conditioner, the air temperature drops below the dew point, causing the water vapor to condense into water droplets.

The resulting water is free of minerals and impurities , but may contain traces of dust, dirt or bacteria from the air or the internal surfaces of the air conditioner.

It therefore presents itself almost like distilled water even if it does not reach the same levels of purity.

4 ways to avoid throwing it away

1. For the iron

The water from the air conditioner drain is free of limescale; store it in small containers or bottles and use it for your iron.

2. For plants

This type of water contains fewer “nutrients” and is therefore very useful for plants that do not require an excessive quantity of mineral salts: for example, succulents, azaleas and hydrangeas.

3. For the laundry

Pour the collected water into a bowl, add 3 tablespoons of Marseille soap flakes, and stir. Once the flakes have completely dissolved, you can use this soap for both washing machines and hand washing.

4. To wash your hair

Heat water in a pan and use it to wash your hair. The absence of limescale will make your hair shinier and more radiant.