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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAGENDA REPORT 1990 0606 CC REG ITEM 08I ac, 7' MOORPARK STEM ' • • BERNARDO M. PEREZ QPPK �4� STEVEN KUENY Mayor o °v City Manager F �Z OR?ARK, CALIFORNIA. SCOTT MONTGOMERY � 9 CHERYLJ. KANE Mayor Pro Tern 041� City Cou II Meeting City Attorney ELOISE BROWN ntv,:�� of `1' 1IW ,TRICK RICHARDS,A.I.C.P. Councilmember o m Director of CLINT HARPER, Ph.D. 9°0/ m ACTION: munity Development Councilmember ` 01 11r R. DENNIS DELZEIT PAUL W. LAWRASON,Jr. City Engineer Councilmember Bvor l" //1GG-'JOHN V.GIL ESPIE lice LILLIAN KELLERMAN i� — Chief D T. He City Clerk ���"�� RICHARD T. HARE City Treasurer MEMORANDUM TO: The Honorable City Council FROM: Craig Phillips, Administrative Assistant v DATE: May 23, 1990 (City Council Meeting June 6, 1990) SUBJECT: Water Conservation Status DISCUSSION Since the May 2 , 1990 City Council meeting, a number of actions have been taken to enhance public awareness and to reduce water use as follows: PUBLIC INFORMATION A bilingual water conservation flyer was mailed to 8,400 parcels throughout the community. The flyer was also placed in the library and City Hall reception areas. In addition, the County Water Conservation Division will provide pamphlet masters of specific water conservation topics such as xeriscape gardens, typical water use, and resource availability that we will print and distribute. The Water Conservation Division has also been providing speakers to local service clubs and agencies. CITY WATERING ACTIVITIES As previously noted, park watering has been significantly reduced. Over the last several months, use has been lowered by 70 percent without ill effect to the sod. Efforts will continue to be made to use drought tolerant plants and high efficiency water systems where feasible. Contained in this year's proposed budget is $6, 000 for water sensors for four existing City parks. Two recently developed parks were built with sensors installed. 799 Moorpark Avenue Moorpark, California 93021 (805) 529-6864 The Honorable City Council May 23 , 1990 Page 2 GRAYWATER Attached is background information about the Santa Barbara graywater program. The basic concept of the program is avoidance of health risk and optimizing landscape maintenance during a drought. The key element is eliminating the possibility of human contact with the graywater used to water landscaping. This is accomplished via a mini leach system. However, Santa Barbara has encountered problems with enforcement and control. Apparently there are numerous do- it-yourself systems being installed without proper inspection. Also attached for your information are recommendations by the State Department of Health and Ventura County Health Care Agency against the use of graywater. ULTRA LOW CONSUMPTION FIXTURES An ordinance will be brought to City Council for consideration during June. The ordinance will require the use of ultra low consumption fixtures in all new construction. Attached for your information is a question and answer sheet regarding ultra low flush toilets that was provided by the County Water Conservation Division. LANDSCAPE GUIDELINES Guidelines are being investigated at this time and a recommendation will be forthcoming. WATERWORKS WATER CONSERVATION PROGRAM The proposed water conservation rules and regulations were previously provided. The program defines specific water wasting practices that can result in penalties. Penalties included fines, flow restriction, and disconnection based on the number of violations. The program provides for administrative due process with appropriate notice, hearing and appeal procedures. Comparatively speaking, the rules and regulations are similar to the Simi Valley and Thousand Oaks proposed ordinances, and less restrictive than the Camarillo and Ventura ordinances. SUMMARY The public has received information through flyers and speakers that will enhance water conservation awareness. In addition, proposed water wasting rules and regulations are currently being considered for adoption by Waterworks District No. 1. t The Honorable City Council May 23 , 1990 Page 3 STAFF RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the City Council receive and file the report. 5236.tem Attachments O,, 5ANT9\ B i�„ : : ct COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA • HEALTH CARE SERVICES o � a Q:�I 315 CAMINO DEL REMEDIO • SANTA BARBARA,CALIFORNIA 93110 • (805) 681-5200 F o R N i LAWRENCE HART,M.D.,F.A.C.P.M. DIRECTOR AND HEALTH OFFICER May 7 , 1990 City of Moorepark 799 Moorepark Road Moorepark, CA 93021 Attention: Craig Phillips Dear Craig: Enclosed is the information you requested regarding the use of greywater. Our newspapers are now filled with advertisements regarding the use of greywater, and acting as experts. Greywater seminars are now commonplace and in addition all plumbing supply houses now stock everything for the "Do-it-yourself" Greywater system. I find it disturbing that so many experts are installing systems that were once illegal. Si rely yours, Paul B. Allard Cross-Connection Inspector 1 PBA/j n , �1 Enc. lElli ; ;i*, wty of Moorpark City of Moorpark BRANCH OFFICES 0 ❑ 500 West Foster Rd. 751-B East Burton Mesa Santa Maria, CA 93455 Lompoc, CA 93436 (805.1111.1 934-6223 (805) 733-3575 4 Guidelines to the approved use of during the Stage III Drought Condition in the City of Santa Barbara. (Gopservatione`�o c. 1�i4 � C, ua Recycling Me r�-ter bill darI'' 7 b\e Greywaterl� i �a�et tf�ory Q e4,3p J' L� cx IIIPV �y T.) - 7t r i— Lz of `�� ePs s{ ' ease Your wate'c°�i and shrubs t� ‘�'°O How To: • Reduce your water bill during the drought. • Safely increase your water saving efforts. • Save trees and shrubs using grey water. Call the Water Conservation Hotline at 564-5460 for further information. This brochure has been prepared by the City Department of Public Works and Building and Zoning Division, with review and approval by the Santa Barbara County Environmental Health Department. April 1990 Pg. 2. WATER REDUCTION STRATEGIES First Steps - Second Steps - Third Steps- WATER CONSERVATION METHODS WATER RECYCLING METHODS USE OF GREYWATER Recommended Practice CLEAR WATER Water Source Laundry - wash and rinse water. If laun- Bathing Water Sources dry includes soiled diapers or clothes Install low-flow showerheads Warm up water from shower from person with infectious illness, do not Take short showers instead of baths Warm up water from bathroom sink use greywater system. Turn off water while soaping Warm up water from kitchen sink Collection and Distribution* Toilet Flushing Collection* Diversion to surge tank and underground Install low-flow toilets Bowls and buckets mini-leach field, ensuring no bodily con- Do not use toilet for trash disposal tact with the water will occur. Flush only when necessary Unacceptable Practices Collection through disconnection of Requires temporary permit from City Dishwashing drains building department, valid for the dura- Hand wash instead of dishwasher tion of Stage III Drought. Use basins, rather than running water LAUNDRY RINSE WATER Only run dishwasher when completely Acceptable Uses full Collection Sub-surface irrigation of groundcover, Clean trash container shrubs and trees, including fruit trees. Laundry Only run full loads Acceptable Uses Unacceptable Sources Flushing toilets (see note below) Wastewater from sinks, showers, and General Wash water for laundry (see diagrams bathtubs Check for and repair any leaks which follow) Water from laundry of soiled diapers By-pass the water softener Avoid use of garbage disposal Unacceptable Uses Unacceptable Uses Do not allow tap to run while shaving, Any surface irrigation with laundry water Irrigation of vegetable garden brushing teeth, washing hands, etc. Any surface irrigation or application Note on flushing toilets: Rinse water Any washing of pavement, vehicles, boats Outdoor Water Use — Observe all Stage should be poured directly into the bowl, Any connection to potable water system III Drought Rules (call 564-5460 if you not into the tank. need information) Pg..3 WHY ARE OTHER GREYWATER USES PROHIBITED WHAT IS GREYWATER? Because all greywater sources may contain disease carrying organisms or grease and food residues, any collection and distribution system must be GREYWATER is used water from washing machines, bathtubs, showers, designed to prevent exposure to the wastewater. Washing machine plumb- bathroom sinks, kitchen sinks and dishwashers. The water that is flushed ing provides the most accessible fixtures to install the necessary additions down toilets is considered BLACKWATER and should only be drained to a and connections. To safely connect other greywater sources,such as shower sewer or septic system. All greywater sources may contain infectious bacte- or bathroom sink wastes, will require expensive plumbing modifications ria and viruses or grease and food residues and are normally required to be which are not justified for temporary installations. drained to a sewer or septic system for safety. However, during emergency drought conditions, some greywater sources can be safely used for limited HOW IS GREYWATER DIFFERENT irrigation purposes in a carefully designed and constructed system. FROM RECLAIMED WAT E R Some uncontaminated household water is called CLEARWATER. This includes warm-up water from showers and faucets.This water may be safe- Greywater should not be confused with reclaimed water. Greywater is ly collected and recycled for flushing toilets and bucket watering of plants. untreated water that usually flows into a sewage or septic system for treat- In addition, laundry rinse water also may be recycled, but only for uses ment. Reclaimed water is treated water from a sewage treatment plant resulting in disposal to the sewer or septic system,such as to flush toilets or which has received additional processing for disinfection and removal of to start the next laundry wash cycle. contaminants. The quality, distribution and use of reclaimed water is regu- lated under State permit and carefully monitored by State Water Quality and SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS Health Officials. Soiled diapers and clothes from any person infected with or carrying an HOW MUCH GREYWATER IS AVAILABLE? infectious disease may contain bacteria and viruses in sufficient quantities to transmit diseases to other individuals. Thus, laundry wash and rinse water Most residences that use greywater from their washing machine will have in these situations should not be used in a greywater system. 10-15 gallons of greywater available per person each day. This amount of greywater may be enough to provide all the water needs of several mature Because greywater may contain infectious bacteria and viruses, methods of use must prevent any direct contact with the water. Thus, collection of fruit trees or a half dozen shrubs. greywater in open containers or application to any lawn, garden, paved, or Greywater is distributed to designated plantings through pipes from a other surface or through any spraying device is clearly prohibited and storage tank into mini-leach fields for irrigation. A minimum of four (4) potentially dangerous. An underground leach field system should not be mini-leach fields should be installed initially to disperse greywater and used for any vegetable garden.The collection and application system should allow adequate discharge as the water is produced. Add additional leach- be designed to minimize storage times and to prevent backups. fields if the available greywater exceeds your initial irrigation needs, or if ponding occurs. If you have a sloped property, spread out your laundry HOW CAN GREYWATER BE USED loads to avoid runoff or ponding. For health and safety, any alterations of plumbing systems must be per- SAMPLE IRRIGATION NEED CHART mitted and inspected by the City Building Department. For the duration of Stage III Drought Conditions only, the Building Department will approve greywater systems which collect laundry wash and rinse water and which Plant Gallons Per Week distribute the water through a closed piping system to an underground Mature fruit tree 75 gallons mini-leach field system. (See description and diagrams that follow.) This Large shade tree 50 gallons system may provide irrigation for fruit and ornamental trees, shrubs, and Large shrub 10 gallons groundcover. Source One Load of Laundry 40 gallons (wash and rinse) Consult your local nursery for further information. Pg.4 BEFORE CONSIDERING THE el, the mini-leach field will quickly clog and the water will be forced to the MINI-LEACH FIELD SYSTEM surface. Remember, surface application of greywater is not approved by the County Health Department. For your safety, please distribute greywater to All other conservation methods should be fully implemented(installation subsurface mini-leach field irrigation points.See diagram. of low flow showerheads, toilets, and faucet flow restrictors, and repair of all leaks). Additionally,the un-restricted use of clear water(warm-up water) LOCATION OF GREYWATER DISPOSAL SYSTEM and the approved uses of recycled water(flushing toilets with bath or show- er water and using washing machine rinse water for wash water in the next Minimum Horizontal permit not required) should be fullyimplemented before consideringDistance In Clear Distribution Mini- load; q p Required From: Lines Leach field the mini-leach field system. Buildings or Structures1 2 feet (.6 m) 8 feet (2.4 m) BUILDING PERMIT PROCESS Property line adjoining private property Clear2 8 feet (2.4 m) A building permit is required for the greywater mini-leach field system, Water supply wells 50 feet3 (15.2 m) 150 feet (45.7 m) and progress and final inspection approvals are required before use. A sim- ple plot plan must be submitted with an application for the building permit. Streams 50 feet (15.2 m) 100 feet (30.5 m) The plot plan should show the location of the fixtures to be included in the Trees 10 feet (3 m) greywater system and the areas on which the greywater will be distributed. Seepage pits or cesspools 12 feet (3.7 m) Review of the plot plan and permit issuance can usually be accomplished at Disposal field 5 feet (1.5 m) the City's Building Division counter at 630 Garden Street for a nominal fee On site domestic of$32.00.Call 564-5485 for information. water service line 1 foot5 (.3 m) 5 feet (1.5 m) UNIFORM PLUMBING CODE REQUIREMENTS Distribution box 5 feet (1.5 m) Public water main 10 feet6 (3 m) 10 feet (3 m) All new greywater systems, and any modifications to existing plumbing for utilization with a greywater system,shall comply with all applicable sec- NOTE: tions of the 1988 edition of the Uniform Plumbing Code. This shall include, When mini leach fields are installed in sloping ground, the minimum but is not limited to; provisions for approved materials, trapping and vent- P g ing of plumbing fixtures, joints and connectors,all applicable backflow pre- horizontal distance between any part of the leaching system and ground vention and cross-connection requirements. surface shall be fifteen(15)feet(4.6 m). 1. Including porches and steps, whether covered or uncovered, breeze- MINI-LEACH FIELD SYSTEM ways, roofed porte-cocheres, roofed patios, car ports, covered walks, covered driveways and similar structures or appurtenances. The only approved method of irrigating landscaping with greywater in 2. See also Section 315(c)of the Uniform Plumbing Code. the City of Santa Barbara is through the use of the mini-leach field system (only during an officially declared Stage III drought condition). The only 3. All drainage piping shall clear domestic water supply wells by at least plumbing fixture allowed to be connected to the mini-leach field system in fifty (50) feet (15.2 m). This distance may be reduced to not less than the City of Santa Barbara is the washing machine.Irrigation of plantings uti- twenty-five (25) feet (7.6 m) when the drainage piping is constructed of lizing clear water (warm-up water not contaminated by human contact) is materials approved for use within a building. not restricted or regulated. 4. Plus two (2) feet(.6 m) for each additional foot (.3 m) of depth in excess To create a mini-leach field, dig a trench approximately 16" deep along of one(1)foot(.3 m)below the bottom of the drain line. (See also Section the dripline (the outer edge of the foliage). Install necessary perforated pipe I6.) into a gravel bed.Then fill with gravel to within 4"of the surface. Be sure to 5. See Section 1108 of the Uniform Plumbing Code. cover the gravel with building paper or weed-stop matting before filling the 6. For parallel construction — For crossing, approval by the Health trench with soil. An inspection of the trench, gravel and paper is required Department shall be required prior to covering with soil. If the soil is able to infiltrate down into the gray- ("..\ c 1 * i � � � ./< ! 1 5 1 ,(4) FOUR FIELDS MINIMUM /�� / / \ .�� �i OUTLET 3/1 PVC !\ F�� N OR POLY PIPE </ • a<,,'''':, ,., r r 0 fi NATIVE ���/_ : i# I Y p SOIL BACKFILL M • r. : • 'I / 2MIN. • . 1 I PERFORATED PIPE kI I j'A WEEDS70P T 01 1.: r MATTING OR 30 Y • N 4-. :400- ,'� BUILDING PAPER ialli'` M OVER GRAVEL TO -•.:i:i[K?WLw�Mi n, • L Iris KIESis PREVENT CLOGGING '., :,'•S:V... Y:r {ASA:I'. �J OF GRAVEL l" • " « ..I I"ROUND '' M 4 GRAVEL ~ u t MINI LEACH FIELD OVERFLOW BYPASS TIGHT FITTING LID MAINTAIN I•BRASS (RECOMMENDED MINIMUM IS FOUR) AIR GAP DIVERTER VALVE INLET FROM WASHING SCREEN I'PVC (PVC SCREEN MACHINE 2"VENT PIPE, 12'•HIGHER 2"VENT PIPE, U THAN THE BYPASS 12" HIGHER THAN a 7��`ee.. ) mw 7 t I >THE BYPASS =N ■ TIGHT FITTING LID GROUNDED O CORD TO ` GROUND FAULT CHECK VALVE N , \ CIRCUIT o' INTERRUPTOR 55GALLON OUTLET �� PLASTIC I I ��tl�� BARREL , /OUTLOR POLY PIPE SUMP P • D WITH PUMP ring..IIl' SWITCH r OUTLET TO MINI I. LEACH FIELD " 3"CONCRETE SLAB s _OR EQUIVALENT v v ALTERNATE -SURGE PIT WASHING MACHINE SYSTEM CITY APPROVED SYSTEM - REQUIRES PERMIT . J • Pg.6- WATER RECYCLING AND CLEAR WATER USES WHAT PARTS DO GREYWATER SYSTEMS REQUIRE? Recycled water uses are those that re-use greywater with standard The City's only allowed greywater source for irrigation is washing plumbing fixtures such as in a toilet or a washing machine. Typical uses machine water applied through the use of the mini-leach field system. include recovery of bath or shower water with a bucket for use in the bowl Required permits and parts include: of a toilet. For a Gravity-Fed System: (6) Perforated PVC pipe,minimum Another recovery and re-use method is utilizing washing machine rinse 2"size. water for the wash cycle of your next load. Two systems are illustrated on (1)A City building permit($32.00) the following page. This water is relatively clean with minor amounts of (2) A 3-way manual diverter valve (7) Gravel to fill the mini-leach residual soap. to direct greywater to the sewer fields. The simplest system is a clean,32-gallon round trash container with a 1" or plants ($25 manual, $200 (8) A minimum of four (4) mini- gate valve attached to the base(with the standard fitting commonly used for electronic) leach fields for plant irrigation. "Smitty pan" drains used under water heaters).The container is positioned (3) A 55-gallon surge tank to hold (9)A washing machine. on a dryer or platform adjacent to the washing machine such that the drain water flows from the washing Pressurized Systems may also is positioned close enough to the lid from the washing machine. A "barb" machine until water can drain fitting with a short piece of hose attached may help in filling the washer to mini-leach fields for irriga- require: from the container. tion. (1)A sump pump and check valve To utilize the system, one simply removes the washing machine drain (4) Inexpensive polyethylene irri- (2) Manual ($2) or electronic($175- hose from the sewer standpipe after the wash cycle has fully drained and gation hose($40 for 500 ft.). 200)irrigation valves places it such that it will drain in to the elevated container (on the dryer or (5) Necessary pvc pipes, fittings, (3) Electronic irrigation clock ($50 platform). An extension to this hose and a coupler with hose clamps may be and hose($50-70) to$250) needed, which can be obtained at a plumbing or major appliance store. When the rinse cycle has fully drainedinto the container, the hose is moved FOR PARTS AND ASSISTANCE back to the sewer standpipe. The clean clothes are then removed and Several local plumbing supply stores now carry all or most of the parts replaced with soiled clothes for the next load.The rinse water from the stor- you will need for a greywater system. Because the number of plumbing age container is then drained into the washer to fill the next load (to be done stores carrying greywater system parts is constantly increasing, visit or call before you start the washer; otherwise it will fill with potable water from your local plumbing store to obtain design and installation advice. the faucet connections). Please consult a licensed plumbing contractor if you have any questions The result is that laundry water needs are reduced by 1/2, yet all of the about the systems and information in this brochure. water is safely disposed in the sewer system without a significant expense to do so. A FINAL WORD The other system is essentially the same in use. Instead of moving the If you are using the recycled or greywater methods described above,you hose between cycles,one simply shifts the diverter valve handle. It also fea- should not use detergents and cleansers which contain a significant amount tures an over flow drain in the unlikely event the rinse water was not of sodium,boron,or chlorine-all of which can be damaging to the health of drained out and more water from a subsequent load was inadvertently plants and soils. A small percentage of plants may be damaged by greywa- added. ter,most of which are listed on the back cover.Also,be aware that the use of CLEAR WATER (WARM-UP WATER) USE softened water may be detrimental to the health of plants and soils because of the very high sodium content. The use of clear water is essentially unrestricted provided it has not been When irrigating plants,do not provide more water to the soil than can be contaminated through bodily contact, soaps, food stuffs, or other contami- absorbed. Allow the soil to dry out between irrigations in order to keep your nates. It may be used for irrigation, flushing toilets, washing clothes or a plants healthy. Add mini-leach fields if necessary to spread out greywater variety of other uses. The County Environmental Health Department and avoid ponding or run off problems. Thank you for your conservation endorses clear water as a short and long term conservation method. efforts and the safe use of recycled and greywater. MOVE HOSE TO TANK DIVERTOR VALVE FILLER HOSE TO SAVE AFTER WASH WATER 32 GALLON ROUND RINSE WATER \ HEAVY DUTY HAS DRAINED TO SAVE RUBBER TRASH CAN RINSE WATER OVERFLOW WASHER STANDPIPE TO SEWER -- 32 GALLON TO DRAIN. REPLACE HEAVY DUTY HOSE AFTER SAVING / /�' RUBBER TRASH RINSE WATER, TO / Of \\\\\\\\\I � CAN HOSE FROM' � TOALLOW BE SAFELYWASHW AT ER / WASHER DISPOSED OF IN SEWER SYSTEM CD - , )'1 IT 0 = ` I ?f l te L , 3/4i GATE VALVE FOR DRAINING RINSE WATER INTO WASHER DIVERTER VALVE ASSEMBLY FOR USE AS WASH WATER WITH NEXT LOAD WITH OVERFLOW PROTECTION SIMPLE REUSE OF RINSE CYCLE WATER *DETAILED PLAN AVAILABLE FOR WASH CYCLE OF NEXT LOAD FROM PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT 630 GARDEN STREET (NO OVERFLOW PROTECTION) WATER SAVINGS = 50% WASHING MACHINE RINSE WATER RECYCLING SYSTEMS Pg.8 • ABOUT YOUR WASHING MACHINE WATERING YOUR LANDSCAPING AS A GREYWATER SOURCE WITH GREYWATER (using the mini-leach field system) Trees and shrubs are the main target for greywater. Detergents, Bleaches and Soaps Information Powdered detergents and soaps include 'filler' (not essential Plants not suitable for greywater irrigation: to clothes cleaning) ingredients which are usually some com- pound of sodium. Over several months, sodium can concen- trate in the soil and damage the ability of the soil to absorb water and directly damage plants. Liquid soaps contain few fillers and contain less sodium. • Shade loving, acid loving plants such as: Rhododendrons Azaleas Cleaners and Laundry Soaps you may wish to avoid: Ferns Bleeding Hearts (Dicentra) Voilets Foxgloves • detergents which include 'with bleach' in the name Oxalis (Wood Sorrel) Impatiens Gardenias Primroses • detergents with ingredients which include: Hydrangeas Begonias boron,borax, or chlorine Philodendrons Camellias peroxygen or sodium perborate petroleum distillates or alkylbenzene • Citrus trees may be adversely affected by the use sodium trypochlorite of greywater. • bleaches (send greywater to the sewer when used) When the rains come, turn off or disconnect your greywater system. This will allow the rains to leach away any soapy build- up in the soil and prevent surface ponding that could create a • softeners (send greywater to the sewer when used) health hazard. CITY OF S A T A BARBARA INTER-OFFICE MEMO DATE : February 12 , 1990 DEPARTMENT OF: Public Works TO : Water Commissioners FROM: Jacques DeBra, Water Conservation Coordinator SUBJECT: USE OF GREYWATER DURING A DROUGHT EMERGENCY Staff estimates that the City will be facing up to a 45% water shortage during the 1990-91 Water Year. Upon declaration of a Stage III Drought Emergency Condition by the City Council, water customers will be asked to reduce their water use significantly, particularly for outdoor water uses. Landscaping will suffer the most on a community-wide basis during the drought. The use of greywater will be of considerable interest to many customers who wish to maintain portions of their landscaping during the drought that are determined to be difficult and/or expensive to replace. The acceptability of greywater use by any water agency is largely determined by County Health Departments . On a state and nation-wide basis, greywater is virtually unacceptable from a regulatory point of view. However, Marin County Water District used greywater during the drought of 1976-77, and the Goleta Water District is pursuing greywater uses during the current drought emergency. The County Board of Supervisors did approve uses of greywater in September, 1990, via separate plumbing system distribution. Also, parcels two acres or larger are required as a condition of approval to install a separate greywater plumbing system in new residential construction (mostly Santa Ynez Valley and Montecito properties) . Actual use of the system is at the discretion of the property owner. The County Department of Environmental Health does currently approve simple uses of greywater. The main question is: Will County Health temporarily loosen their greywater regulations during a drought emergency, and if so, for what uses? A draft publication "How To Use Greywater" has been completed for County review, and may be the basis for some acceptable system that can be used by water customers during the drought emergency. The system designs highlighted in this publication focus on subterranean distribution of greywater into the rootzone of plant materials which reduces the risks of greywater use. However, some of these systems are relatively complex in nature, and do not have a track record. • USE OF GREYWATER DURING A DROUGH M.ERGENCY Page Two February 12 , 1990 Once greywater systems are installed, maintenance is required. As a result, monitoring and/or enforcement by the agency is necessary to ensure health hazards do not arise. Widespread use of greywater on small parcels in the City poses potential health hazards . Safest Potential Use of Greywater In The City Currently, the City ' s policy position on greywater use is to endorse uses approved by the County Building and Health Departments. During the drought emergency, temporary use of greywater from washing machines would be the use with the highest benefit to customers (accounting for 22% of indoor water use) with landscaping and/or fruit trees to maintain. A system diverting washing machine flows to landscaped areas would be relatively simple to install as compared to a household-wide greywater system, would not require extensive plumbing system modifications, and provides enough water to water and maintain several trees or planted areas . This option will be further explored with County Building and Health officials. A presentation will be made by County and City officials to the Water Commission to stimulate discussion on greywater use. Upon discussion by the Water Commission, policy options can be developed and incorporated into the City' s public information materials for distribution to interested water customers. Contact me at 564-5460 if you have any questions. J D/ Enclosures: Greywater Information [WP:E:JDWCGREY.MEM) ait ' ORDINt N:GE NO . AN OR:WINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 10 OF THE SANTA BARBARA COUNTY CODE TO ADD SUBPARAGRAPH (u) TO SECTION 10-39 , PROVIDING FOR LOCAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE ADOPTED UNIFORM PLUMBING CODE, TO IDENTIFY USES OF GREYWATER DURING CONDITIONS OF WATER EMERGENCY The Board of Supervisors of the County of Santa Barbara ordains as follows : Section 1. Section 39 of Chapter 10 of the Santa Barbara County Code is hereby amended to add Section (u) , thereto, and to provide as follows : Sec. 10-39. Modifications to the Primary Plumbing Code. (a) Sewage pump signalling device. Section 409 (i) is hereby amended by adding the following sentence : "Where dual pumps or ejectors are not required, an approved visual and audible signalling device shall be installed to provide warning in the event of pump failure. " (b) Add section 410 to read as follows : "Location of building drain. All building drainage piping shall clear water supply well (s) a minimum horizontal distance of not less than twenty-five (25) feet. " (c) Adequate potable water required. Section 1001 shall read as follows : ."Except where not deemed necessary for safety or sanitation by the Administrative Authority, each plumbing fixture shall be provided with an adequate supply of potable running water from an approved water system or well, watercourse or spring , piped to the building site in an approved manner, so arranged as to flush and keep it in a clean and sanitary condition without danger of backflow or cross-connection. Water closets and urinals shall be flushed by means of an approved tank or flushometer valve" . (d) Materials. Section 1004 (a) shall read as follows : "Water pipe and fittings shall be of brass , copper , cast iron, galvanized malleable iron, galvanized wrought iron, galvanized steel, lead or other approved materials. Asbestos-cement, PE or PVC water pipe manufactured to recognized standards may be used for cold water distribution systems outside a building. All materials used in the water supply system, except valves and similar devices, shall be of a like material, except where otherwise approved by the Administrative Authority" . • . :' - automatic shut-offs or be operated by foot pedals . In y addition for the accom: ation of: physically handicapped persons , self-closing vrlves shall be such as will allow the faucet to remain open for at least 10 seconds . ( 6) Such other water saving devices as the Administrative Authority shall determine meet the required standards are generally available at reasonable prices , and are likely to result in substantial saving of water . EXCEPTIONS : The Administrative Authority may grant • exceptions to any of the foregoing requirements with or without conditions for the following reasons : ( 1) In order to comply with the applicable Federal , State , or local health , safety , or sanitation laws , ordinances , rules or regulations . ( 2) Where an applicant for a plumbing permit has an alternate method of operation which will result in substantially the same water saving as the required device, • and which is approved by the Administrative Authority as being safe , practical, durable and feasible. (3) In cases of emergency. • (4) Where the devices listed are unavailable. Such exception may be made temporary , where deemed reasonable by the Administrative Authority . • (5) For other reasons which the Administrative Authority deems adequate. ( t) Car Washes . All commercial car wash facilities shall have water recycling systems approved by the Administrative Authority. (u) Greywater. Greywater , as defined in this subparagraph, may be used for landscaping where no mechanical system is employed, no permanent connection made to plumbing , and no standing water allowed as a result . Furthermore, the Administrative Authority may permit the installation of such systems and devices, attached to the plumbing system for the sanitary distribution or use of greywater , as have been approved by a technical advisory committee composed of a representative from the the Health Services Department, the Department of Public Works, and the water district, agency , or purveyor affected . Applications for such permits , inspections and final issuance shall be through the Department of Public Works , Building and Development Division . In areas in which , in the opinion of the Administrative Authority, there have been recurring water shortages , or in which there exits a propensity for future water shortage , the Administrative Authority _ . shall require that new construction on parcels 2 acres or larger incorporate such provisions and facilities for the economic and sanitary use of greywater as are approved by said technical advisory ' committee. "Greywater" as used in this section shall include waste water which is not -5- � x contaminated by any toilet discharge ; by infectious , contaminated or unhealthy bodily wastes ; d which does not present a threat from contamination by unhea�ful processing , manufacturing or operating wastes . The provisions of paragraphs (d) and (j ) shall continue until such times as the conclusion resulting from the ongoing State Department of Housing and Community Development evaluation of the use of plastic and metal piping directs otherwise . The Board of Supervisors of the County expressly finds that the provisions of paragraphs (a) through (u) of Section 10-39 of this Code, modifying the Uniform Plumbing. Code 1985 Edition as printed , are necessary to meet local conditions in Santa Barbara Couhty • where chemically aggressive water , shortages of water, soil conditions , and topographic conditions in the County require the foregoing amendments to assure the public welfare. SECTION 2 . This ordinance shall take effect and be in force thirty days from the date of its passage, and before the expiration of fifteen days after its passage it shall be published once, with the names of the members of the Board of Supervisors voting for and against Ole same in the , a newspaper of general circulation published in the County of Santa Barbara. PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED THIS day of 1989. AYES : NOES : ABSENT: ABSTAIN : Toru Miyoshi , Chairman , Board of Supervisors of the County of Santa Barbara , State of California ATTEST : Kenneth A. Pettit Approved as to form: County Clerk-Recorder Marvin Levine, County Counsel By By Deputy Clerk Recorder Robert W. Pike, Deputy 4285X -6- 5 r .y \ z 4 COUNTY OF S�`T.� BARBARA • HEALTH CARE SERVICES ,1"; - '; 315 CAMINO DE't EMEDIO • SANTA BARBARA,CALIFORNIA 93110 • (805)964-8E48 �rtro�� LAWRENCE HART.WO,FA.C.P.IE DIRECTOR AND HEALTH OFFICER GREYWATER FOR IRRIGATION Health Care Services does not recommend the use of domestic wastewater for irrigation purposes . Greywater is defined as the wastewater from plumbing fixtures other than toilets , i . e . from laundry , bathtubs , showers , sinks and dishwashers . The California Health and Safety Code, Section 5411 , prohibits discharging wastewater in a manner resulting in contamination or nuisance , and the Uniform Plumbing Code , Sec . 300-303 requires that all wastewater discharge to the public sewer or an approved septic system. All wastewater , including greywater contains bacteria and viruses that can cause disease , and also contains food residues , grease , dirt , solids , soaps and chemicals . Replumbing can result in cross-connections which endanger the drinking water supply . Pumping and siphoning wastewater can result in ponding , which attracts rodents and insects which carry disease. The following "clearwater" uses could be adopted during the emergency water rationing period . 1 . Save water from warming up the shower or tub in a bucket and use it for flushing or outside watering . 2 . Save rinse water from dishwashing by hand in a basin and carry it outside for watering . It is recommended that water softener use be discontinued during the water shortage , or that existing softeners be converted to low-water-use units . All water-saving fixtures in the home are the best possible means .to reduce water use , rather than illegally discharging wastewater for irrigation use . Most important from a public health point of view is the warning not to disconnect waste lines , not to install pumps , and not to siphon out wastewater . BRANCH OFFICES ❑ ❑ 500 West Foster Rd. 751-B East Burton Mesa Blvd. Santa Maria, CA 93454 Lompoc, CA 93436 (805) 937- 365 (805) 733-3575 CLING GRAY i ..ATER * - t .f.g. +:Aya u - - l' , ''` Y 3 Y ark H 4 it s . I U :ii' CE FOR WASTEwATE r,. • • „..,._ . „,_.. .„. ITH ALL the current '+ t.-':: : duces up to 97 gallons of reusable gray water r.. talk of source reduction, per person per day. Average cost for a con- , it's time we apply the Santa Barbara tractor installed gray water system would be concept to wastewater. I $2500 per house or less.Owner installed sys- refer specifically to the County takes a big terns can be done for $150 to $800. fraction of wastewater classified as gray water— step to overcome NEW POLICY IN SANTA BARBARA from kitchen and bathroom sinks, tubs, To the best of my knowledge. Santa Bar- showers and laundry rooms.A well-designed, restrictions on bara is the first county in the nation to make efficient and automatic gray water system gray water reuse legal and a permitted op- can be a reliable and safe way to reuse such systems that would tion under a state Uniform Building Code. water to irrigate ornamental landscaping. Effective last September, the guidelines al- However, many states along with Califor- use subsurface low reuse of shower,bath tub,bathroom sink nia say it's illegal for an individual to take j and laundry water for subsurface irrigation responsibility for a personal gray water sys- applications of without a permit providing they do not use tem. According to the California Uniform any mechanical device or redo existing Plumbing Code, "wastewater cannot be dis- gray water to plumbing. Those homeowners who wish to posed of by any means except an approved replumb their pipes or add a sump pump plumbing and sewage system. Changes in irrigate ornamental must apply for a permit ($30), present a plumbing in order to collect gray water are sketch of the intended changes, and get ap- not being recommended by most health de- plants. proval of their proposed system after a site partments." California Health and Safety visit by a staff member of the Building De- Code defines gray water as"sewage"and the partment. Code prohibits discharge of gray water In addition, the county may mandate split "where it is a threat to public health or where Robert KOurik system plumbing, one set of pipes plumbed a nuisance may be created." to all black water sources (toilet and kitchen Even though common practice,it is techni- sinks) and one color coded set of pipes for cally a violation of the Uniform Building gray water use, in new construction on lots Code for homeowners to redo plumbing with- of two acres or more in areas of the county out hiring a certified plumbing contractor. that have a history of water scarcity. These Plumbing contractors, consequently, are for- guidelines apply only to the unincorporated bidden to do any plumbing in violation of the areas of the county and are not acceptable Code which forbids gray water systems, so a within the city limits of Santa Barbara. four-way knot of state law makes this ecolog- I have been involved with the county's ically sane alternative technically illegal. gray water committee since its inception in developing what will be acceptable as code NOW SAFE ARE SYSTEMS? approved systems as well as designing and The worst case scenario is that improper installing a handful of prototypes for obser- application of previously contaminated gray vation and evaluation. The committee con- water can spread parasites, viruses and bac- sists of a representative from the Santa Bar- teria, such as typhoid fever, dysentery and bara County Building Department, infectious hepatitis. A scary list, but cer- Department of Health,the Goleta Water Dis- tainly the most remote of possibilities. Ac- trict, a conservation specialist from the Uni- t cording to Matt Walker, who inspected gray versity of California at Santa Barbara, and a water systems for state officials during the local plumber. ■ 1977 drought. none of the homeowners who had systems got ill from gray water. Said Walker: "Subsurface applications (without Besides designing and consulting on gray u a- sprinklers or open hoses) of gray water is a ter projects,Robert Kour'k has urtten a hand- viable method of irrigation for selected orna- book, Gray Water Use in the Landscape. It is mental plants." ar,ailable for S6 from Edible Publications. P0. As to volume, the average Californian pro- Box 1541, Santa Rosa, CA 9.402. B,oC •cLx JAsuARy :o9,2 35 z_u--oe.: State cf California Department cf Health SerJiri-s Environmental `..'-.nage_"er t Branch - .: -• Hazards Related to Graywater Drouo its bring ri]th attention to the need for pater c.me:eration and r,,,2 r rents for more efficient use of available water s l ier. ;may groups and divirnla:s advocate the rya of certain haa:x/ho1d wasteoraters such as sink, Sewer, tub, cr laundry was r,iatars. :1-1P .P household wastewaters other than toilet wastes are referred to as "c, y0a 45. Packor jrd Disease organics can be imparted fry an infected person to gxaywat .r by (1) washing fecal ratter f:.rz:i the body or urinating in bath.1ng warm; (2) laundering cf diapers or undergarments soiled with fecal ratter- or urine; and (3) any other use of water that call the water to receive residue; frun bodily excretions or motions. Fern' ratter from an infected person can contain viruses, cysts or ooeysts of protozoa, cva (eggs) of intestinal worts, and bacteria capable of i* lting infection and, for susceptible persons, disease. If more than one person resides where graywater is used and one sheds infectious organisms into bath at er or clothing in the amount resulting in an infective dose in another person exposed to the water, urdisinfected graywatPr can be a node of transmission of infection. In susceptible persons, infection can result in digease. Draining chicken blood in a sink, bathing anir^als in a sink, and urinating while bathing are exarples of other activities which can impart organisms to graywater. Infective d Ices vary among organic exc..rtreri by humans. Infective rime-.- are generally high for bacteria (although infective does of same species of salmonella and shigella can be as law as 10 organisms) . For the protozoa giardia, infective rirW..P ray range from 10 cysts to a million cysts per individual eased. Infective d scs of enteric viruocs range dawn to less than 10 virus units (e.g. , hepatitis) and to one or two (e.g. , polio) . Consideration of }mown infective cin-� numbers of organisers typically exuLeted by infected persons, and relative susceptibilities of orgarisrs to adverse enviroranents encountered between hosts suggests that unmitigated exposure e to water containing excreta in summer and fall is more likely to present an infective dose of enteric virus than an infective dose of another type of organisnn. Enteric viruses have been owed to survive up to five weeks in the environment after excretion. - 1 Calculations by Clarke, et al. "allow an estimate of the n rbers of enteric viruses that could eeT_,Lcee,y conform bacteria shed into graywater. Clarke, et al. Observed that: (1) excretion of enteric viruses in feces by apparently healthy individuals is largely canfinad to children under awe 15; (2) on average, abaft 10% of children shed viruses at any given tip; and (3) the 1960 census showed that 31.1% of the population was urriPr 15. They assumed that virus excreturs among children discharge enteric virus in amounts tearable to those Obtained from volunteers in a study wherein the average density of chimpanzee-avirulent poliovirus types 1 and 3 in fec of human volunteers who ingested live virus was about 5000 . virus units per gram of feces. Ignoring the occasional virus excretors in other age gam, the enteric virus density in fecee on a per capita basis corputes to be about 200 virus units per gram (5000 X 10% X 31.1%) . The average conform density in human feces is 13,000,000 pPr gran. As fe -a1 conforms generally comprise one-fourth of the coliforms in U.S. raw sewage, the average fPra1 coliform density in human feces is roughly 3,000,000 pPr gram. Thus it is assumed that there would be about 60 vim units per million fecal colifor . Data obtained in a study of untreated graywater undertaken by the Deparu-nent of Hea 1 th Services (DHS) in 1979-80 indicate that average bacteria concentrations were roughly 8,000,000 irc'st probable number (N) total coliforms/100 milliliters (ml) and 400,000 M fecal coliforms/100 ml in water from bathtub or shower, and 3,000 to 50,000,000 MPN total coliforms/100 ml and 2,000 to 10,000,000 MPN fear coliforms/100 ml in water from washing machines. Thus these types of graywater have substantial concentrations of excreta. An estimate, after the premises of Clarke et al. , is that there could be roughly 200 enteric virus s per liter of graywater from a bathtub or shower, and roughly 0.1 to 6,000 per liter of yLaywater from a washing machine. The concentration of 200 per 1 itdr is about 4% of the concentration in raw sewage, 8% of the ccncentration in undisinfected effluent cf a septic tank or trickling filter treating sewage, and 40% of the concentration in urxiisinfected effluent of secondary treatment of sewage treated by the activated sludge process. 1Clarke, N. A. , et al. "?-man Enteric Viruses in water; Source, Survival and Removability", in hdvance in Water Pollution _Research. Proceedings of the First International Conference of Water Pollution Research, London, 1962, pp. 523-541 - 2 It ;s � .c..med that the average infectivity of vir4se present is the average of i.^.fevtivities cf c cvit s 12 and policviris 1. Thus the ,rprc t probability of infection is : ,e--tent.',.s of the rr.amber of viruses ingest.,. . (The factor 0.9 is the average of 1.7 for echo 12 and 0.06 for polio 1. ) When the above-cited graywater frcri bathtub cr shower is u_3d for irrigation at application rates appzvriate for July, the leg-term average number of vi. ' s per square inch (considering expected rate of virus die-off between applications) would be roughly 1, 2, and 3 for ?awns in the north coast coastal valleys and plains, Sacramento Valley, and Southern California desert, respectively, and twice those numters for irrigarP-i surface in a garden with a crop with a tree-foot root zone. A 100% probability of infection would obtain from ingestion of all vines adhering to a surface in a Sacramento Valley garden irrigated in July (e.g. , an area of food spray-irrigated or fallen on the irrigated soil) of about 30 square inches (the area of a square roughly six inahes per side or a circle of diameter roughly six inches) . For the case wherein the palm of the hard of a small arillit (surface area 25 square inches) is pressed onto irrigated Sacramento Valley turf at one location and all viruses adhere to the palm, the palm would hold roughly the numhPr of viruses associated with a 60% probability of infection. The palm is capable of retaining even more solids than that on 25 square inches of turf: experiments have shown that roughly 80 milligrams of solids can be retained on the palm. A three inch diameter ball rolled 30 feet on Sacramento Valley turf irrigatPi in July, cr a 1.6-indi diameter golf ball rolled 60 feet, would contact an area containing the above--cited 80 milligrams of graywater solids. That amount of solids would contain rouxghly 1000 viruses—about 10 times the dosage that would pose a 100% probability of infection by ingestion. Infection by certain viruses can occur after contact with the ma us rembrance. , Contact with the r*.:s r •crane can ncyl.yr in splashing or spraying of an eye or nostril, transfer from contaminated finger to an eye or nostril, or inhalation of mist or airborne particles formed in spray irrigation. Ingestion of virus can cryllr when a contaminated finger or hand enters the mouth or tsuches a cigarette, food or other article that enters the mouth. A finger or hard ray be contaminated by contact with graywater, a surface irrigated with graywater, or other surface harboring cxnstithents of graywater. - 3 _ There is at least a 50 went probability that airborneaLrbany particles five ins or larger will be swallowed aftar inhalation. Hence SNxaying graywater into cr upwind from the breathing zone of a person can result in ir esstion of enteric viruses. Spray irrigation of a garden with food crops, or surface irrigation of a garden with low growing food crops or root crcc, can result in ingestion of infectious organisms, and contamination cf kitchen. counter surfaces and utensils with s-ubsequent ccnta„iration of food from other sc zces. Recam ndation The general public should be advised not to handle or use graywater. - 4 - • L\iERIO A ER USE SINGLE AM:a.,Y RESIDENCEI ! t / 1 C;LETl LEAKAGE %.\GPCUP • ' CN'�W,iCr�V ING ClLE , MI AVERAGE WA �.R USE= 77.3 2S a c gyp{ 12`a1 21 % Ci S H Y/A„S HER : 470 WASHING MACH1NE.z GRCLP r INT=RM IAT= -^t E7 Lc, 7 / TOILETS C FA T HS AVERAGE WATT? USE = 68.4 qc� 13% 18°a SHCNERS c5°,a C:s wasrE.? 2% WASHING MACHINEZ= GCCU? C.^.NS:'VING TOILETc.� 13 o. TOILETS / % 12ai0 4.114.S AVERAGE WAi.? USE = 6n.7•scd '4 a° -a--- F,:,UC 13 SHOWS-'S '4°o 2 a ai CISr WASHER 2% -WASHING MAC:-4INE [�' ALL S T UCY PA RT1C:PANTS ,--IC!LET LEAKAGE Vile TOILETS .r- = ir.S A VERAGE. wGTER USE = 66.2 SC 'a II a! \ IG°o FAUCETS Sr-CWE?S—i i8°o • IC�a CISHWASHER Z.% WASHING MACHINE 1 Brown and Caldwell, HUD Studies D-L 1— TO 77 K:,G E ! i O I LETSni :• 1z.® HS 597 gad .. l F�► U G S Tom^ SHOW • • • • O I SH WASHER • ; '. 11 S 1P CHINE• . • • • • •• VCPH • Ventura County Public Health Lawrence E. Dodds, MD A Division of the Ventura County Health Care Agency • Director and Health Officer DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH/ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH DIVISION GRAYWATER POLICY Due to the current drought and the resulting need to conserve drinking water supplies , much interest has recently developed regarding the reuse of untreated household wastewater from sinks , showers , bathtubs , laundry washing machines , etc . , for irrigation of lawns , gardens , and trees . The untreated wastewater from these sources is sometimes referred to as "graywater" . Studies by the State of California Department of Health Services have indicated that infective quantities of bacteria, viruses , and other pathogenic organisms are present in graywater. Furthermore , studies have shown these microorganisms can survive for considerable lengths of time on vegetation and soil . Contaminated soil can adhere to a finger or hand, thereby exposing a person to potential enteric disease. In view of the history and potential severity of enteric disease, increased exposure to pathogens by the use of graywater poses a serious public health threat . Current State law ( the Uniform Plumbing Code ) requires all household wastewater to be discharged into a public sewer system or an approved individual sewage disposal system when a public sewer is not available . Modification of the local plumbing code would be necessary to permit the use of graywater . Based on the studies to date, this modification is not justified due to the potential adverse effects to public health associated with possible exposures to untreated wastewater. Thus, the State Department of Health Services and the Ventura County Health Officer, in conjunction with the Ventura County Environmental Health Division , are advising thcl gene:-al public not to handle or use graywater . LAWRENCE M. DODDS , M. D. DONALD W. KOEPP, DIR OR HEALTH OFFICER ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH DIVI ION 3147 Loma Vista Road, L #4850, Ventura, California 93009 • (805) 652-5916 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ULTRA-LOW FLUSH TOILETS Q. What is an ultra-low flush (ULF) toilet? A. Toilets that uses 1.6 gallons of water or less. These toilets include the traditional gravity flush types as well as air-assisted and other innovative models. Q. How do they work? A. Each manufacturer's product is different. The company's literature can explain more completely the differences. Most, however, are a combination of gravity (water dropping from the tank to the bowl) and unique bowl design (usually with steeply sloping sides) to allow for a complete flushing and cleansing action with up to 80 percent less water than conventional "water savers." Several models have the "boosted flush" which incorporates a "flushometer" tank within the vitreous china tank. These fixtures use air-pressure from the supply line to accomplish a forceful flush. One manufacturer's product incorporates a rubber diaphragm in the trapway that holds back the flush for a few seconds while velocity builds, then the waste is carried away. One of the Swedish models has a divided tube that is integral to the rim of the bowl and a continuous slotted rim to allow for a high velocity of water during the initial flushing phase. Q. Can ULF toilets be used in all situations? A. There should be no more problems encountered in residential installations with a good ultra-low flush toilet than with a 3.5 or 5 gallon toilet. In many cases these new toilets work better because they are designed with a higher velocity flush and are not dependent on a large amount of water in the bowl to achieve the proper evacuation of waste. As with all toilet installations, however, there should be a minimum pipe slope of 1/4 inch per foot. If a sewer line has been improperly installed, there may be some additional problems with the ultra-low flush types. It is also helpful, whenever a retrofit of toilet fixtures is anticipated to include sewer pipe cleaning (de-rooting) as part of the total project. Q. What about commercial ULF fixtures? A. Several manufacturers are now beginning to produce commercial type fixtures that flush with 1.6 gallons, including handicapped and flushometer valve types. Q. Are these toilets available in colors and various styles? A. Yes. There are many styles to choose from. There are round front, elongated bowl and even some one piece models available in a range of colors from virtually every manufacturer. More colors and styles will be available as the volume of production increases. Q. I have heard that these toilets clog and don't carry the waste. Is this true? A. There has been no evidence to support these claims. In a Phoenix, Arizona study homeowners reported that the ultra-low flush toilets actually clogged less than the 3.5 gallon types. Most manufacturers of plumbing fixtures have their toilets tested by independent laboratories in accordance with ANSI (American National Standards Institute) performance standards. (These tests are often made available by the manufacturers upon request. ) Hypothetical problems with drainline carry (waste transport) have also been greatly exaggerated and no hard data exists to support these negative claims. There is still some debate about the effectiveness of the extremely reduced volume flush in an installation where there may be only one fixture at the end of a long horizontal run. Currently available information suggests that in this type of installation, a ULF toilet with a very high performance in the drainline carry test would be the preferred choice. With the more than 6 million ultra-low flush toilets installed throughout the world in a wide variety of situations, no evidence exists that they have caused any more problems than conventional fixture types. Q. Do these toilets require more cleaning than conventional toilets? A. Occasionally the models with the small water surface area in the bowl require slightly more cleaning frequency than the other types, but it has not been a major problem. Again, some manufacturers' products seem to be better than others. Q. What about commercial ULF fixtures? A. Several manufacturers are now beginning to produce commercial type fixtures that flush with 1.6 gallons, including handicapped and flushometer valve types. Q. Are these toilets available in colors and various styles? A. Yes. There are many styles to choose from. There are round front, elongated bowl and even some one piece models available in a range of colors from virtually every manufacturer. More colors and styles will be available as the volume of production increases. Q. I have heard that these toilets clog and don't carry the waste. Is this true? A. There has been no evidence to support these claims. In a Phoenix, Arizona study homeowners reported that the ultra-low flush toilets actually clogged less than the 3.5 gallon types. Most manufacturers of plumbing fixtures have their toilets tested by independent laboratories in accordance with ANSI (American National Standards Institute) performance standards. (These tests are often made available by the manufacturers upon request.) Hypothetical problems with drainline carry (waste transport) have also been greatly exaggerated and no hard data exists to support these negative claims. There is still some debate about the effectiveness of the extremely reduced volume flush in an installation where there may be only one fixture at the end of a long horizontal run. Currently available information suggests that in this type of installation, a ULF toilet with a very high performance in the drainline carry test would be the preferred choice. With the more than 6 million ultra-low flush toilets installed throughout the world in a wide variety of situations, no evidence exists that they have caused any more problems than conventional fixture types. Q. Do these toilets require more cleaning than conventional toilets? A. Occasionally the models with the small water surface area in the bowl require slightly more cleaning frequency than the other types, but it has not been a major problem. Again, some manufacturers' products seem to be better than others. Q. How much water can the average household save if just the toilet is retrofitted? A. If the average residence has 3.12 persons (3. 12 established by EPA/1988), and it is assumed that each person flushes the toilet an average of 4 times per day, which is considered conservative, retrofitting a 3.5 gallon "water saver" toilet with a ultra-low flush type would save the average family nearly 24 gallons of water per day or about 8,760 gallons a year. However, homes built before 1983 may have toilets that use 5 gallons of water per flush or more. In these cases the savings from retrofitting to a 1.6 gallon per flush toilet would be considerably more. Pilot retrofit programs in the city of Santa Monica show a 16 to 32 percent reduction in household water use from retrofitting with ULF toilets. Q. How much do these toilets cost? A. There is a range of prices much the same as for any other toilet. Retail prices currently range from about $80 to about $400 or more for the decorator models. The air-assisted toilets tend to be more expensive than the gravity-fed toilets. Price for a particular model varies depending on color, quantity purchased and the type of bowl (elongated versus round front). As local demand for these products increases, area retailers will be able to buy bulk quantities at lower prices and pass on savings to consumers. Q. How much does it cost to have a toilet installed? A. Although Ventura County plumbing contractors have not been surveyed, a survey conducted of Santa Monica area plumbing contractors indicated a price range of between $30 - $75 per installation. Q. How many manufacturers are now producing ULF toilets? A. There are fourteen manufacturers at last count, with more rapidly joining in production. The Plumbing Manufacturer's Institute estimates that over 2 million ultra-low flush toilets will be produced in the United States in 1990. Q. Are these toilets marketed through normal distribution? A. All of the major manufacturers have a distribution system for their full range of products and can be expected to have the ULF toilets available in the normal manner. Some of the smaller volume manufacturers or importers of ULF toilets have a more limited or regional distribution network. The exact details about product availability can be ascertained directly from the manufacturer or importer. Q. Are ULF toilets used in any other areas? A. In addition to the many European and Asian countries (England, Sweden, France, Japan) which have long required ULF fixtures, they are also required in the states of Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, Washington and in many communities in California. Q. What is the new California law and what does it require? A. Legislation was recently passed in California (Assembly Bill 2355) which will require 1.6 gallon per flush toilets and 1.0 gallon per flush urinals in new construction after January 1, 1992. Q. Are ULF toilets required anywhere in Ventura County now? A. The city of Ventura amended their building code to require ULF toilets in new construction after January 1, 1990. The County of Ventura also adopted a building code amendment which becomes effective July 1, 1990 and applies to the County unincorporated area. Several other cities in the County are also considering adopting similar requirements. Thanks to Wendy Corpening for assisting with this information sheet. For more information, call the Ventura County Water Conservation Program at 654-2466, 2440 or 2471. Q. Are these toilets marketed through normal distribution? A. All of the major manufacturers have a distribution system for their full range of products and can be expected to have the ULF toilets available in the normal manner. Some of the smaller volume manufacturers or importers of ULF toilets have a more limited or regional distribution network. The exact details about product availability can be ascertained directly from the manufacturer or importer. Q. Are ULF toilets used in any other areas? A. In addition to the many European and Asian countries (England, Sweden, France, Japan) which have long required ULF fixtures, they are also required in the states of Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, Washington and in many communities in California. Q. What is the new California law and what does it require? A. Legislation was recently passed in California (Assembly Bill 2355) which will require 1.6 gallon per flush toilets and 1.0 gallon per flush urinals ' in new construction after January 1, 1992. Q. Are ULF toilets required anywhere in Ventura County now? A. The city of Ventura amended their building code to require ULF toilets in new construction after January 1, 1990. The County of Ventura also adopted a building code amendment which becomes effective July 1, 1990 and applies to the County unincorporated area. Several other cities in the County are also considering adopting similar requirements. Thanks to Wendy Corpening for assisting with this information sheet. For more information, call the Ventura .County Water Conservation Program at 654-2466, 2440 or 2471.