By 
This summer has seen a lot more rain than usual. Of course, this is great news for agriculture, residential gardens and the filling of dams and rivers in general. The more it rains, the less water you need to use from your water line to keep your crops and gardens growing.
If you’ve spent moment staring through the window at the rain, thinking you wish you could catch all that water, you’re not alone. The good news is, industrial plumbing services across Australia are making this type of harvesting possible!
What is Rainwater Harvesting?
Essentially, rainwater harvesting is as the name suggests, the gathering of rainwater. Rainwater harvesting also involves the storage of this water until it’s needed.
If you consider the amount of water that falls on impermeable surfaces such as roofs and paths during a rainstorm it can actually be a substantial amount. Ordinarily, this water would simply run into stormwater drains and be wasted. With rainwater harvesting, you’ll be able to gather this water and use it in coming days, for various needs on your property.
How Do You Go About Setting Up a Rainwater Harvesting System?
If you’re not familiar with a rainwater harvesting system, you might be picturing yourself running around in the rain placing buckets all over your lawn to catch as much water as possible!
Fortunately, we’ve long since evolved from that type of water gathering! It’s as simple as consulting with an industrial plumber who also specialises in water harvesting.
These experts will set up a system comprising of the following plumbing and watering systems:
- Gutters and downpipes: These pipes collect and channel the water from the roof or other collected surfaces and allow it to flow into the tank.
- Filters and diverters: Your water system will require filters to keep leaves and other debris from falling into the tanks, thereby keeping the water clean and fresh.
- Storage tank: You’ll need a tank somewhere on your property to store the harvested water.
- Distribution system: A series of pipes and pumps to transport the water from the tank to where you’ll use it. This could include adding a tap to the tank.
Be sure to consult with your industrial plumber about the things you’d like to do with the water. This will ensure the right equipment is installed. For example, you’ll need the right filters if the water is to be used for drinking.
Benefits of Harvesting Rainwater
Do you have space on your property for a rainwater harvesting system? Our experts have compiled a few of the more prominent reasons why this type of system will benefit your household.
Water Available During Droughts
If you’ve lived in Australia for a while then you’re well aware of the dry, arid conditions. You’ll also know that some seasons see the country flooding in certain areas while being bone dry in others.
In the event of water restrictions, your own rainwater harvesting system will provide enough water for you to use as you see fit. It’s worth noting that tank water on your property is yours to use as you need.
Reduce the Need for Mains Water
Without a water harvesting system, households are 100% reliant on water from the water mains. By using your captured water for certain functions on the property, you’re reducing your need for water from the grid which results in a saving on your water bills.
Benefit to Your Plants and Animals
Many households choose to use the water from the main supply for indoor use and tank water for outdoor use. Since the harvested water isn’t chlorinated, the water is softer and more beneficial to plants and insects living on your property. If the water is filtered correctly, it can also be used for pets and livestock.
Adds Value to the Property
Any additions you make to your property adds value. With this in mind, a quality system that’s installed correctly can actually be seen as an investment. Who wouldn’t want a water system in place for the drier seasons?
Reduce the Capacity Constraints in Storm Drains
It’s often not the amount of rainwater that creates floods but rather a strained or blocked stormwater system. With blockages in drains, it becomes difficult for rainwater to simply just keep flowing.
If more households harvest rainwater, less of it falls on the ground, which impacts an already taxed stormwater system. Especially during heavy rain seasons.
Common Uses of Harvested Rainwater
Rainwater can be used for many functions around your property. Whether you choose to replace municipal water entirely, or just use it for outdoor functions, there’s no denying that it’ll make your life simpler.
Some of the more common uses of correctly filtered harvested rainwater include the following:
- Drinking water for pets and livestock
- Washing vehicles, patios, pathways and outdoor areas
- Irrigation for crops, lawns and gardens
- Non-portable fixtures such as washing machines, toilets and even dishwashers
Final Thought
If you want to save money on your water bill, do your bit for the environment and keep your garden looking beautiful, a quality rainwater harvesting system can do all of that! Use the rainwater around you to make your life easier!
Comments