If you’ve come to our website, chances are you’ve done your research on drought conditions in your area and on the benefits of green building. You might be looking into adding a rainwater catchment system to your home. Good for you! But before you attempt assembling equipment or digging in your yard, there are a few things we think you should know:
- Check your municipalities’ building codes. Your city or county may have restrictions on the type of system you purchase. If you live in a neighborhood with a homeowner’s association, you’ll want to check in with them to clear any permits necessary with the organization.
- Start with an experienced, accredited supplier, dealer or installer. They will have access to the latest technology and expertise. Ask for a consultation before you get started.
- How large a tank will you need? Size is assessed by need, so knowing how much water you and your family need is essential before constructing a catchment system. This water footprint calculator (http://h2oconserve.org/home.php?pd=index ) is a good place to start.
- Where do you want to locate your water tank? If space dictates that your tank be located above ground, it will be less expensive to install; however, the system may need to be winterized in cold months. If you can put your tank underground, it can capture water year-round, and it will require less maintenance and space.
- Will you need a pump? Above-ground tanks can be installed under downspouts, and can provide approximately one-half pound of water pressure per foot of elevation but underground tanks will certainly need a pump to supply your water. Here’s a guide on How to choose the right pump
- What kind of filtering system do you want to maintain? For water that’s to be used for gardening and lawn care purposes, a simple screen can filter out debris. Screens need to be cleaned out frequently, sometimes daily. Self-cleaning filters are more efficient because they stay clean and can save you time and effort.
A cutaway view of a 1700 gallon in-ground collection system
RainHarvest Systems can provide expertise, equipment and installation options for catchment systems of all sizes for residential and commercial properties. We carry the largest selection of rainwater harvesting supplies in the country at reasonable prices. We’re happy to answer any questions on our Facebook site and on Twitter, too.
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