Using AC unit run-off water with low pH and TDS

[Orchid Whisperer]

Originally Posted by Dumb chemist

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The use of A/C condensate water on Orchids is not a good practice IMHO. The condensate is in contact with the condenser coils before it enters the collection bucket. The coils are made of (pregnant pause) METAL. The metal is usually stainless steel which is made of iron and chromium. The water will pickup iron and chromium ions during its brief contact with the coils. What I would say is this: Would you drink the A/C condensate? If the condensate is not potable, would you use it on your Orchids?

I wouldn't worry much over the brief contact water will have with stainless steel. The water condenses on the steel and drips off in a few minutes. Much less contact time than my (acidic) coffee is in contact with my stainless steel carafe each day.