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Collecting rainwater is a practice that dates back centuries and has recently seen a resurgence as people look for sustainable ways to conserve water and reduce their environmental impact. Rainwater harvesting involves capturing and storing rainwater for various uses, from garden irrigation to household cleaning, and even for drinking with proper filtration. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding the how-tos of collecting rainwater and the many benefits it offers. And remember – the professionals are here to help!
Why Collect Rainwater?
With increasing awareness of water scarcity issues and the rising costs of municipal water, collecting rainwater has become a practical and eco-friendly solution. Rainwater is a free resource that would otherwise go down storm drains, potentially causing flooding and erosion. By collecting and using rainwater, one is not only reducing one’s reliance on municipal water supplies but also helping to preserve natural water resources. Additionally, harvested rainwater is free from many chemicals typically found in treated water, making it a great choice for plants, cleaning, and other non-potable uses.
The Pros of Collecting Rainwater
Let’s dive into the benefits of rainwater harvesting and why it’s worth considering:
1. Water Conservation: Collecting rainwater helps conserve municipal or well water supplies. By using rainwater for tasks like gardening or washing cars, one is reducing one’s household’s water demand, which is especially helpful during droughts or water restrictions.
2. Cost Savings: Using rainwater can reduce one’s water bill, especially if one lives in an area where water is metered or costs are high. Over time, the cost savings from using rainwater for outdoor and some indoor uses can offset the initial setup investment.
3. Healthier Plants and Gardens: Rainwater is free from chemicals like chlorine and fluoride, commonly found in tap water. These chemicals can sometimes harm sensitive plants. Using rainwater for one’s garden promotes healthier plant growth and richer soil.
4. Flood and Erosion Control: Collecting rainwater reduces the amount of runoff that would otherwise enter storm drains, helping to reduce the risk of flooding and erosion, particularly in urban areas with limited natural drainage.
5. Emergency Water Supply: In areas prone to water shortages or natural disasters, a rainwater collection system provides an emergency water source. With appropriate filtration, rainwater can also be made potable, providing a valuable backup supply.
6. Environmental Benefits: By relying less on treated water, which requires energy and chemicals to process, rainwater harvesting reduces one’s household’s carbon footprint. This practice also lowers demand on aquifers and other natural water sources, preserving ecosystems.
The How-Tos of Collecting Rainwater
Now that the average homeowner, gardener or landscaper knows the benefits, here’s a step-by-step guide to setting up and maintaining a rainwater collection system.
1. Choose one’s Collection Method
Rainwater collection systems can range from simple to complex. Here are the most popular methods:
• Rain Barrels: Rain barrels are one of the simplest and most affordable ways to collect rainwater. They are typically positioned under a downspout and collect water directly from one’s roof. Rain barrels come in various sizes, usually between 40 to 100 gallons, and may have features like spigots for easy access to the water and overflow outlets.
• Totes and Cisterns: For larger-scale collection, totes (large, portable tanks) or cisterns (permanent tanks) are great options. They can hold hundreds to thousands of gallons of water and are ideal for properties with high water needs. Totes and cisterns require more setup than rain barrels but provide a larger capacity and can be used for irrigation and other non-potable uses.
• Rooftop Collection Systems: This more sophisticated system captures water directly from the roof and transports it to a holding tank. With filtration and plumbing adjustments, rooftop systems can provide water for indoor uses, such as flushing toilets and washing clothes.
2. Select a Collection Surface
Rainwater harvesting relies on a “catchment area” where water is collected before it’s stored. Roofs are the most common catchment surfaces, but the material of one’s roof can impact the water quality:
• Metal Roofs: Ideal for rainwater collection due to their smooth surface, which allows water to run off quickly and reduces contamination.
• Asphalt Shingles: Common in residential areas, though they may leach small amounts of chemicals over time. Consider filtration for these setups if the water will be used for sensitive plants or drinking.
• Green Roofs: While they absorb a lot of water, they’re not ideal for collection since a significant portion of the water is absorbed by the plants and soil.
3. Install Gutters and Downspouts
To channel rainwater into one’s storage container, install gutters along the edges of one’s roof if one doesn’t have them already. Downspouts should direct water toward one’s rain barrel, tote, or cistern. One may need to add diverters, which can control the water flow and direct the first few minutes of rainfall (often containing debris) away from one’s collection container.
4. Set Up Filtration and Overflow Systems
Even if the rainwater is intended for non-potable uses, it’s wise to filter out debris, leaves, and other contaminants. Here are a few types of filtration:
• First-Flush Diverters: This device diverts the first batch of rainwater away from the main container, preventing it from carrying dust, pollen, and other debris into one’s tank.
• Mesh Screens: Install mesh screens on top of barrels or tanks to block leaves and larger particles.
• Advanced Filters: If one plans to use rainwater indoors or for drinking, install a multi-stage filtration system. This includes sediment filters, activated carbon, and possibly UV purification to kill pathogens.
Be sure to install an overflow outlet on one’s rain barrel or tank, which will prevent flooding around one’s setup during heavy rainfall. Connect the overflow outlet to a hose to channel excess water away from one’s house or into a drainage area.
5. Maintaining one’s Rainwater Collection System
Maintaining one’s rainwater system will ensure it functions efficiently and keeps the water safe to use. Here are key maintenance tips:
• Clean Gutters Regularly: Clear out leaves and debris from one’s gutters and downspouts at least twice a year to prevent clogs.
• Inspect Filters and Diverters: Check one’s filters and first-flush diverters regularly, and clean them as needed.
• Monitor Water Levels: During the rainy season, monitor one’s container’s water level. If it reaches capacity, check one’s overflow outlets to make sure excess water is draining properly.
• Prevent Mosquito Breeding: Ensure all collection containers are sealed or covered with fine mesh to prevent mosquitoes from breeding in stagnant water. Some rain barrels come with built-in mosquito screens.
• Winterize the System: In colder climates, drain and disconnect the rain barrel during winter to prevent freezing and cracking.
6. Using one’s Collected Rainwater
Once one has set up one’s rainwater harvesting system, consider these applications:
• Garden and Lawn Irrigation: Rainwater is ideal for watering plants, lawns, and gardens. Attach a garden hose or watering can to one’s rain barrel’s spigot for easy access.
• Cleaning and Outdoor Use: Use rainwater for outdoor cleaning tasks like washing cars, cleaning tools, or rinsing outdoor surfaces.
• Indoor Uses (Non-Potable): With proper setup, rainwater can be used to flush toilets, wash clothes, or fill water features.
• Emergency Drinking Water: Rainwater can be used as emergency drinking water with appropriate filtration and purification, including boiling or UV treatment.
Is Collecting Rainwater Legal?
In most areas, collecting rainwater is legal, but it’s essential to check one’s local regulations. Some regions have restrictions on the amount of water one could collect or may require permits for larger cisterns. However, many places are encouraging rainwater collection, especially in water-scarce regions, and even offering rebates for setting up systems.
Collecting rainwater is a practical, cost-effective, and sustainable way to conserve water and support the environment. With a relatively simple setup and regular maintenance, a rainwater harvesting system can provide water for a wide range of uses, reduce utility bills, and help reduce the strain on municipal water supplies. As more people look for ways to live sustainably, rainwater collection offers a meaningful solution that benefits both households and the planet. Don’t forget – the professionals are here to help!