Why catch the rain?
In rainy season, a single roof sheds a surprising amount of water in minutes. Most of it runs into the street, adds to flooding, and is gone. Catching part of it gives you water for cleaning, laundry, toilets and the garden, and it slows the rush into the drains.
What you need
- A clean roof surface. Metal and tile roofs work well. Sweep off leaves and dust before the season starts.
- Gutters and a downpipe that lead the water to one point.
- A first-flush device or a simple filter, so the dirtiest first water is thrown away and not stored.
- A covered tank with a lid and a mesh over the inlet, so mosquitoes cannot breed.
- An overflow pipe that sends extra water to a soakaway or garden, not against your walls.
How big a tank?
Start from how you will use the water, not from the biggest tank you can afford. A household that wants water for the garden and cleaning needs far less storage than one that wants to replace its whole supply. A quantity surveyor can size the tank against your roof area, your use and your budget.
Keep it safe
- Treat harvested water as non-drinking unless it has been properly filtered and disinfected.
- Clean the tank and gutters at least once a year.
- Keep the tank lid closed and in shade if you can.
Planning a new home or school?
Rainwater storage costs least when it is drawn into the plan from the start. Send us your plan at contact@autobillconst.com and we will show you where it fits and what it costs.
