Can You Water Plants with Water from a Dehumidifier?

Have you ever wondered if the water that collects in your dehumidifier could be used for anything? Instead of simply pouring it down the drain, why not put it to good use and water your plants? In this article, we will explore whether or not dehumidifier water is safe for plant use and what precautions you should take before doing so.

Is Dehumidifier Water Safe for Plants?

The answer to this question is, it depends. While the water collected in a dehumidifier is technically distilled, meaning it has been stripped of impurities, it may still contain microscopic particles that could harm plants. For example, if your dehumidifier is in a basement, it could collect mold spores or other harmful substances.

In addition, dehumidifiers often rely on air filters to clean the air before it is dried. If these filters are not properly cleaned or replaced, they could be harboring bacteria, mold, or other harmful substances that could make their way into the water collection tank.

Therefore, before you use dehumidifier water on your plants, it is important to perform a few tests to ensure that the water is safe to use. You can do this by analyzing the water's pH level, checking for any visible impurities, and ensuring that the dehumidifier's air filter is clean.

Precautions to Take Before Using Dehumidifier Water

Assuming that your dehumidifier water passes the necessary tests, there are a few precautions you should take before using it to water your plants. First, it is important to note that dehumidifier water is devoid of any nutrients that are essential to plants' growth. Therefore, you should supplement your plants' regular watering routine with occasional fertilization.

In addition, because dehumidifier water is often a concentrated source of minerals, it could potentially damage plants if used in excess. We recommend diluting the dehumidifier water with regular tap water before using it to water your plants.

Finally, it is important to note that dehumidifier water may contain harmful chemicals or substances, such as lead or asbestos, if your home has an older plumbing system or building materials. Therefore, it is crucial to have your home's pipes and building materials tested for contaminants before using dehumidifier water on your plants.

The Bottom Line

In general, using dehumidifier water to water your plants can be a safe and environmentally-friendly option, as it can help to reduce water waste. However, it is important to take the necessary precautions to ensure that the water is safe for plant use and not harmful to your plants or yourself. Always test the water for impurities and pH levels, dilute it with regular tap water, and have your home's plumbing and building materials tested for contaminants before using dehumidifier water on your plants.

If you follow these guidelines and take the necessary precautions, you can feel confident in using dehumidifier water to water your plants and helping to reduce your environmental impact.