How to Maintain Control of Your Rainwater Harvesting System

Uncontrolled rainwater flow can cost you money!

Pump protection and pump control is important for proper rainwater harvesting system management. Good system controls should offer a variety of functions on a myriad of system designs. Float switches and digital controllers allow the homeowner to determine when they use their stored rainwater, and helps them to be a good steward of their water supplies.

Float switches are simple, yet effective, devices that can be used to trigger a variety of actions in a rainwater system. The only problem with using a float switch is that it does not allow you to have precise control over the switching points (the point where you switch to or stop your back-up water supply.)

The RainMaster Multifunction Float Switch is an inexpensive way to monitor your rainwater reserves.

The RainMaster Multifunction Float Switch (pictured above) is a good example. It provides pump protection and control, 3-way valve control, and tank water level management. A float switch is the simplest, cheapest solution to system control. As the tank is drained, the float switch will begin to lower with the water level. Once the float switch has dropped 45° below parallel, it will turn on your back-up water supply. If you are using a tank back-up system (where you refill the tank with municipal water) this means that it will open the solenoid valve attached to your domestic water line, allowing the tank to fill with municipal water. If you are using a direct back-up system (where you use a 3-way valve to switch directly to municipal water) it will rotate the valve to the position of the municipal water. As the tank fills with water, the float switch will raise with the water level. Once it rises 45° above parallel, it will close your fill valve or switch the 3-way valve back to rainwater.

The Rainwater System Controller manages all of the functions required in a typical residential or commercial rainwater collection system.

Alternatively, a digital rainwater system controller gives you precise control over when you use each source of water. The Rainwater System Controller (pictured above) automatically monitors and reports on water levels and backup water supplies. It also manages overflow transfer functions, filter rinse cycles, the first flush drain valve and service interval alerts. The device uses a transducer that sits near the bottom of the tank and constantly provides a water level reading. With a digital controller, you can precisely program each switching point that you want to have for your system. Additionally, it allows you to monitor the water level in your tank and provides a simple indication of which water source your system is currently using. This device is the best way to keep a watchful eye on how your system is running.

Several solutions are available that allow you to either control your rainwater harvesting systems back-up water supply or simply monitor the status of it. Let our experts help you find the controls that work best for you. With a properly functioning system, rainwater and stormwater can be used for irrigation, flushing toilets, washing clothes, washing cars, pressure washing, or even purified for everyday drinking water. Save rain, and you’ll save water and money!