Stop Leaving Your Air Conditioner Water Behind When It's Liquid Gold

When the summer heat hits, most of us are focused on staying cool by cranking up the air conditioner and enjoying that sweet relief. Few stop to notice the small but constant trickle of water dripping from the condenser that's mounted on an exterior wall. In fact, it might surprise you to know that this is essentially liquid gold slipping down your drain. What some might consider waste water, has countless practical uses around the home, from cleaning windows to watering indoor plants, and more. It's free and ready to put to work, if you just take the time to collect it. That's why you should stop dumping air conditioner water, and start harnessing it is an eco-friendly way to reclaim something you've already paid for to produce.

A typical home air conditioner with a 12,000 BTU capacity, running for about 7 hours on a hot, muggy day, can generate roughly 4 to 7 liters of water. Over a single month, that's close to 120 to 200 liters. Extrapolate that across a year, and you could be saving upwards of 1,500 liters of pristine, usable water, all while reducing your utility bill.

The water collected from your AC is essentially condensed steam, which means it has very low hardness and contains almost no mineral salts, unlike tap water. It's also crystal clear and completely free from chlorine. That combination makes it perfect for multiple tasks around the home. Just take heed though, because this water is not drinkable or safe for human consumption because it may contain dust, dissolved metals, bacteria or fungi.

However, for cleaning glass and windows, for example, it can be absolutely ideal. Anyone who's tried to clean a window without streaks knows that regular tap water often leaves behind unwanted stains. AC water, on the other hand, leaves surfaces sparkling without any residue. In fact, it's one of the best ways to clean your windows for a streak-free finish. The results are just as impressive when it comes to steam irons. Using this naturally soft, mineral-free water ensures your clothes stay stain-free, with zero buildup inside the iron.

This water is also fantastic for plants. Its purity and low mineral content mean it won't harm sensitive greenery, and you can even use it for larger irrigation needs outdoors. In fact, laboratory tests on 120 condensate samples revealed that this water meets the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) guidelines for irrigation quality. So every drop that goes down your drain is a lost opportunity, whether for cleaning or nurturing your garden.