Recycled Water Plumbing

In the future recycled water will provide to a number of new growth areas within the Hunter. These suburbs will have dual water supplies, known as dual reticulation.

Dual reticulation or 'third pipe' schemes deliver highly treated recycled water to residential areas through a separate purple pipe. This pipe supplies recycled water that is suitable for use in toilet flushing, garden irrigation, washing machines, car washing and surface cleaning.

Recycled Water Dual Pipe MainsAll plumbing work in recycled water suburbs needs to be carried out by a licenced plumber in accordance with AS3500 and Hunter Water guidelines.

Recycled water plumbing requires particular care to ensure that there are no cross connections between potable and recycled water supplies.

All new homes built in recycled water suburbs will have to undergo a series of inspections by Hunter Water at various stages of construction.

Recycled water final inspection sticker

If you have any questions in regard to the final inspection status or the absence of an inspection label contact us.

Any modifications to recycled water plumbing requires inspection by a Hunter Water representative.

  • Frequently Asked Questions

    • Is recycled water plumbing subject to special requirements?

      Answer

      All recycled water plumbing and fixtures should comply with AS/NZS3500.1 plumbing and drainage – water services. In summary this standard requires that:

      • A backflow prevention device be fitted at the drinking water meter.
      • There should be NO cross-connection between drinking and recycled water services.
      • All recycled water piping should be coloured purple or have appropriate and durable purple sleeving, netting or spirally wrapped tape for clear identification.
      • All buried pipes should be marked with longitudinal running marking tape clearly displaying: RECYCLED OR RECLAIMED-WATER-DO NOT DRINK.
      • All external taps should be clearly marked with a warning sign, be fitted with a removal handle and be coloured purple.
      • Hunter Water should be notified of any planned changes or modifications to existing recycled water infrastructure.
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