Rainwater collection
SOCIETY BENEFITS
Reduced water shortages Reduced floodingECONOMY BENEFITS
Using less water will reduce your water bills!ENVIROMENTAL BENEFITS
Less water means less energy for pumpingUSEFUL LINKS
Advice
It is possible to make use of rainwater before it either heads into the sewer or is absorbed by the earth.
There are two ways in which you can reduce the amount of water your household takes from the mains:
1. A water butt is very simple and inexpensive method of collecting water for use in your garden. This will offset the use of mains water in the garden, which averages around 5% of total consumption. Commercial systems go from around 100 litres (slim-line versions available) to over 300-litres. We would recommend one for the front and rear garden, to make the most of water landing on your roof. If you have a shed or green-house then additional water-butts could be used.
2. Collecting rainwater for flushing the toilet and for use in the washing machine requires a storage tank of around 2 m3 which collects rainwater from the roof, an overflow to the storm drains, a pump and a header tank or other system for providing mains water back-up. These systems required a significant capital up front, a significant installation process, and maintenance during its life.
Other sustainable considerations
WARNING: Make sure the water-butt is a model which is CHILD SAFE, meaning that children will find it difficult to climb into!
Try find a model which is made of recycled material. Alternatively it is possible to make your own, though ensure it is safe for children to be around.
