How Much Does a Grey Water System Cost?

Cost of Grey Water Systems

A grey water system generally costs between $1,000 and $4,000 or $2,500 on average, including installation. Costs can run as low as $700 for a simple system that runs from your laundry room to your yard and up to $20,000 or more for a more complex, full-house system.

Grey water systems repurpose water that would otherwise go into the sewer. With a grey water system, lawns or other outdoor landscaping receive waste water from washing machines, showers, bathroom sinks or dehumidifiers.

Average Grey Water System Cost

Cost to Install Grey Water System

Depending on the type of grey water system, installation and labor costs are anywhere between two to eight times the cost of the materials. For a $500 system, you’ll pay anywhere from $1,000 to $4,000 to set it up.

There are other costs to consider that may influence your total project price:

• Installing new plumbing costs: $375-$1,850

• The cost to set up a sprinkler system: $2,500 on average

• Land excavation prices: $1,500-$5,100

Grey Water Recycling System Cost

A grey water recycling system typically costs between $1,000 and $4,000 but could cost up to $20,000. This is another term for a grey water system, as it recycles grey water for landscaping or irrigation purposes.

Residential Grey Water Reclamation System Cost

A smaller-scale residential grey water reclamation system might only cost $700 to run from the washing machine to your yard. Some high-end residential systems, such as automated pump systems, can run from $5,000 to $20,000.

Commercial Grey Water Systems Cost

A commercial grey water system can cost anywhere from $20,000 to $500,000. The price depends on the size of the commercial building as well as the function and size of the system itself. Some businesses go all out and incorporate black water recycling systems as well, which will raise the price.

Price of Grey Water Systems

Prices for home grey water systems can run from around $500 to $11,600 for just the system.

DIY Grey Water System Installation vs. Hiring a Professional

Setting up a grey water system on your own is possible, but it requires a lot of work. Not only does it require extensive plumbing work, but the process itself is pretty labor intensive. Even DIYers often end up hiring a plumber for at least part of the job. “Before beginning any DIY project, make sure that your local municipality doesn't require the work to be performed by a licensed professional, especially a project that has such great potential for exposure to infectious waste,” says Jeff Botelho, Angi Expert Review Board member and Massachusetts-licensed journeyman plumber.

If you have plumbing experience, the time and interest a DIY grey water system might be within your wheelhouse. Regardless, it’s still a good idea to contact a plumber near you for a consult.

FAQs

What is grey water?

Grey water is the leftover or waste water that comes from sinks, showers, dehumidifiers, or washing machines. When reused within 24 hours, it’s safe for watering lawns and gardens.

How can you reuse grey water?

You can reuse grey water for landscaping purposes, such as watering your lawn or garden. Black water is waste water that comes from toilets, kitchen sinks and dishwashers, and it requires treatment before reusal. Grey water, on the other hand, does not need treating as long as it’s used within 24 hours.

How do you install a grey water system?

Grey water systems require a ton of design planning, and installation varies depending on the type of system and purpose you’re going for.

In its simplest form, a plumber uses a branched valve to redirect waste water from your laundry washer. Instead of going to a sewer, it goes to an irrigation system that will also require setting up.