Tiny homes are catching on in Kenya. They are affordable, easy to construct, and well-suited for small plots. From Nairobi to Nanyuki, more Kenyans are exploring this lifestyle. But plumbing is one area where things can go wrong fast. Without proper planning, your tiny home can face water problems, bad smells, or waste issues. In a town where water is not always reliable, plumbing should be done by a professional to avoid water wastage. This article explains what you need to know about tiny house plumbing to get your plumbing right. Whether you’re building in the city or off-grid in the countryside, this guide will help.
Basic Plumbing Systems in Tiny House Plumbing
Every home needs water in and water out. Your plumbing system has two main parts:
- Water supply system.
- Drainage and waste system.
There are options when it comes to water supply. In town areas, you can connect to the city council water (like Nairobi Water or Eldoret Water). But in many rural places, people use boreholes, wells, or even water delivered by tankers. Rainwater harvesting is also growing in popularity. You can install gutters on your tiny roof and direct the water into storage tanks. Once you collect water, you need a way to use it. Most people install small water pumps and pressure tanks. These systems push water into taps, showers, and toilets. Remember, space is tight. Plan your water tanks, pipes, and valves early to avoid overcrowding.
Greywater and Blackwater in Tiny House Plumbing
Tiny house plumbing handles greywater and blackwater in separate ways. Greywater comes from sinks, baths, and showers. Blackwater includes waste from toilets. Greywater can sometimes be reused after basic treatment. On the other hand, blackwater needs safe disposal through approved systems. Some places have clear limits on how both types are managed. So, it’s important to understand local plumbing guidelines. Good tiny house plumbing supports health and the environment.
1. Greywater is from your sinks, shower, and laundry
2. Blackwater is from the toilet.
Greywater is less dirty and can be reused for irrigation. But you must filter it. Small systems like gravel filters or basic treatment tanks work well. Blackwater is more dangerous. It must be handled carefully to avoid health problems. You need a safe disposal system like a septic tank, biodigester, or composting toilet. Never mix greywater and blackwater. Keep the systems separate. It saves water and makes treatment easier.
Tiny House Toilets
This is one of the most debated parts of tiny homes. Traditional flush toilets need a water supply and a drainage system. If you’re on-grid, this may work. But what if you are off-grid?That’s where alternative toilets come in:
- Composting toilets.
- Portable toilets.
- Eco-flush toilets.
Composting toilets are popular with eco-conscious Kenyans. They turn human waste into compost without using water. They don’t smell if properly managed. Portable toilets are common on construction sites and can be a temporary solutionEco-flush toilets use very little water, perfect for dry areas like Kajiado or Turkana. Choose a toilet that matches your location and lifestyle.
Water Heating in Tiny House Plumbing
You don’t need a bulky boiler in a tiny home. Small homes can use energy-efficient water heating options. Tiny house plumbing offers several ways to heat water. Solar water heaters use sunlight and reduce electricity bills. Instant electric showers heat water on demand. They save space and energy. LPG gas heaters are another compact option. They work well off-grid and heat water quickly. Each system has pros and cons. Therefore, choose what fits your needs and location. Reliable hot water is key in tiny house plumbing. In Kenya, the sun is your friend. Solar water heaters work well in most climates. They are more expensive, but save money in the long run. Electric instant showers are easy to install but depend on a power supply. LPG heaters are great for off-grid setups. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s safe and properly installed.
Plumbing Materials and Fittings in Tiny House Plumbing
Tiny house plumbing uses simple and lightweight materials. PEX pipes are popular for their flexibility and ease of use. PVC is common for drainage systems. Copper pipes are durable but cost more. Fittings must match the pipe type and size. Always use non-toxic, high-quality parts. In addition, secure all joints to prevent leaks. Smart choices in plumbing materials and fittings keep tiny house plumbing safe and efficient. They also reduce repair costs over time. Most importantly, the right materials ensure a longer-lasting system.
Drainage and Waste Disposal in Tiny House Plumbing
Drainage and waste disposal are key parts of tiny house plumbing. Greywater must flow to a safe disposal or reuse system. Blackwater needs a sealed and approved system. Composting toilets help reduce blackwater in off-grid setups. In urban areas, connect to the main sewer if allowed. Use proper pipe slopes to avoid clogs. Also, install vents to let air into the drainage system. Good drainage and waste disposal keep tiny house plumbing healthy and eco-friendly. Always follow local rules for safe waste handling.
Choose a method that matches your location, soil type, and budget. Avoid polluting rivers or nearby water sources. Septic tanks are traditional. They need space and regular emptying. Bio-digesters are more compact and eco-friendly. They convert waste into water and gas. Soak pits are simple holes filled with gravel. They help disperse greywater into the soil.
Hiring a Plumber vs DIY in tiny house plumbing
Some plumbing tasks are easy, while others are best left to experts. You can do simple things like fixing taps or connecting hoses, but installing full systems requires skill. In Kenya, a licensed plumber charges anywhere from KES 1,500 to KES 5,000 per day, depending on location and complexity. Ask for referrals, check previous work. A bad plumber can cause damage that costs more to fix.
DIY is fine, but don’t take risks. Always follow safety and building standards.
Legal and Environmental Considerations
In Kenya, there are rules about plumbing. when building in a town or city, you must follow the county bylaws. This includes safe waste disposal and connecting to legal water sources. For off-grid homes, rules may be more relaxed, but still follow best practices.
NEMA (National Environment Management Authority) encourages eco-friendly waste systems. Avoid illegal connections or dumping. Protect the land and your health. Also, think about water conservation. Use dual-flush toilets, low-flow taps, and reuse greywater when possible.
Conclusion
Tiny homes are not just about saving space. They’re about smart living. Plumbing is one of the most important parts. Done right, it makes your home clean, safe, and comfortable. Start with a plan, use quality materials, and choose eco-friendly systems. Always follow local laws. With the right approach, tiny house plumbing in Kenya is not just possible—it can be better than many regular homes. Take your time, Talk to experts, and Learn from others. Tiny living is about doing more with less, and plumbing is a big part of that.