Water From AC For Vegetables

[BobK]

I want to setup a rain barrel to collect water from one of the rain downspouts on my house.

However, the only gutter available also has the drip line from our central AC connected to it. And I can't easily re-route it.

So, is it OK to mix condensed water from an Air Conditioner with rain water on vegetables?

I know the condensate is basically distilled water, but I don't know if anything else needs to be considered.

Thanks,

Bob

[pepperhead212]

It's a good idea, and I don't see why you can't mix it with rain water. I just had a new system put in, and have been wondering how I'm going to save that water - have to put a shallow pan under it, where it's located.

[applestar]

I think by the time the waters are mixed with rain that washed down the roof, there wouldn’t be overarching contaminant.

I’ve seen some express concern with the downspout water due to what might come off the roof including chemicals that may come from new shingles or roof treatments or bird poop.

Some say not to use on vegetables near harvest or above ground crop, etc. and talk about testing the water first….

That said, I have rain barrels and water directed from downspouts to the vegetable garden.

[BobK]

Thanks!

Bob