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Wastewater Reclamation

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1. What are some other benefits of connecting and using reclaimed water?

• Reclaimed water usage reduces the demand on potable and ground watersources.
• Reclaimed water recharges the shallow surficial aquifer with fresh water.
• Reclaimed water reduces the quantity of wastewater effluent discharged into the Indian River Lagoon.
• Reclaimed water contains some nutrients, nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) are the two primary nutrients found in reclaimed water, using reclaimed water can reduce the need fertilization.

2. After hours emergency number: (321) 433-8808.

(321) 433-8808

3. What is a backflow preventer?

A device that prevents backflow from the customers system into the drinking water distribution system. Backflow preventers are installed on the customers side of the potable water meter by the City of Cocoa; the cost is included in the connection charge.

4. What is back-flow?

A reversal of the normal direction of flow. There are two different types of backflow, backsiphonage and backpressure. There are two types of protection: Isolation (internal protection) and Containment (service protection) at the potable meter.

5. What is a cross connection?

A link between a potable and non-potable system that would allow a non-potable water source to enter the potable water supply.

6. How much money will I save on my water and sewer bill?

Savings depends on current source of irrigation supply and the number of people in the house.

7. Are modifications to my house or plumbing needed for reclaimed water?

An approved cross connection device is required on the potable water line serving any property receiving reclaimed water. A Water Reclamation Coordinator will make sure one is installed before turning on reclaimed water service. Reclaimed water piping must be completely isolated, disconnected, and separate from all potable water lines.

8. Is there any salt in reclaimed water?

Our chloride level averages around 140 parts per million. The salt content is low enough that reclaimed water will not harm sensitive plants. Reclaimed water has a low iron content that will not stain walkways and buildings.

9. How much money will I save on my water and sewer bill?

Savings depends on current source of irrigation supply and the number of people in the house.

10. Why must I pay for reclaimed when I already pay for sewer?

The monthly sewer bill is for the treatment of sewage. Providing reclaimed water for irrigation involves additional costs beyond those for the treatment of sewage.

11. Is connection to the reclaimed water system required?

No.

12. Can I wash my car?

Cocoa does not recommend using reclaimed water for washing vehicles or washing down sidewalks, roadways, or driveways.

13. Do I have to abandon my well?

There can be no interconnection between the reclaimed water system and any other system. The well may remain but you must physically disconnect it from the reclaimed water piping. Do not use reclaimed water within 100 feet of all potable water wells. Using reclaimed water vs. a well will eliminate the expense of a well, drilling, pump installation / operation and maintenance cost.

14. Can I irrigate food crops?

You must peel or cook food crops that come in contact with reclaimed water. Water "salad" crops in a way that avoids getting water on the plant / leaves (root zone irrigation).

15. What can I irrigate with reclaimed water?

You can water all ornamental plants, trees, turfs and grasses.

16. Does reclaimed water smell or stain?

No. Reclaimed water has a very low iron content.

17. 15. Can I use reclaimed water for toilet flushing?

Using reclaimed water for toilet flushing is allowed in commercial or industrial facilities. Reclaimed water cannot be used for toilet flushing in any residential property or dwelling unit where the residents have access to the plumbing system for repairs or modifications.

18. Can I use reclaimed water for a water to air A/C?

Yes if you use all of the water for irrigation, with no return to the sewer, no return to a well, and no discharge to a canal, ditch or pond.

19. What is the service line size?

Residential reclaimed water service lines are generally 3/4 inch. However, if you want to pay more you can have a larger size.

20. What is a hose bibb? (Also called a spigot)

A fitting that allows you to connect a garden hose to a water system.

21. Can I have a hose for reclaimed water?

Yes, as long as the hose bibb (spigot) is in a box and the box is locked or the handle is removed.

22. When can I water?

Irrigating with reclaimed water is exempt from all watering restrictions.

23. How much can I use?

Reclaimed water is not restricted at this time, there is no limit on its use; however; over watering can result in high utility bills and can cause problems with your lawn.

24. Can I use it in pools or spas?

No. Reclaimed water is not the same as potable water and is not suitable for human contact, such as bathing, swimming pools or laundry.

25. Is it drinkable?

No. Reclaimed water is not the same as potable water and is not suitable for human consumption.

26. Is reclaimed water safe?

Yes. Reclaimed water is treated so it is safe for incidental human contact such as lawn irrigation.

27. What size service line will I need?

When you apply for reclaimed water service, you may select the size of the service line connection. The gallons per minute required to operate your sprinkler system will determine the service line size. Recommended water pressure allowance for design of a new sprinkler system is 40psi.

If you know how many gallons per minute your irrigation system will require use these flows as a guideline.

Service size and flow rate:

• 3/4 inch, 20 gpm
• 1 inch, 50 gpm
• 1-1/2 inch, 100 gpm
• 2 inch, 160 gpm

28. When do I start payment under Cocoa's financing terms?

If you choose the financing option (for property located inside Cocoa city limits only) the appropriate monthly amount will be shown on your water bill.

29. What is the monthly charge for using reclaimed water? (subject to change)

Click the "Reclaimed Water Rates" link below to view the current rates.
Reclaimed Water Rates

30. What is the one-time cost for connecting to the reclaimed water system?

Service Size ¾"
Connection Charge $301
Amount Included on Water Bill $12.54 (x 24 months)

Service Size 1"
Connection Charge $425
Amount Included on Water Bill $17.71 (x 24 months)

Service Size 1½"
Connection Charge $700
Amount Included on Water Bill $29.17 (x 24 months)

Service Size 2"
Connection Charge $1,000
Amount Included on Water Bill $41.67 (x 24 months)