Rain water harvesting System
From Swikipedia
Introduction
Rainwater Harvesting Systems/ Rainwater Catchment Systems / Rainwater Use Systems, all refer to the act of collecting rain through a catchment medium, and after its filtration, stores for later use. This water may be used for irrigation, washing, toilet flushing, and if disinfected, used for potable purposes.
Rainwater harvesting is not a new concept; however, over the last century its use has diminished with the availability of a clean, inexpensive and reliable water source through the mains supply.
More recently, water demand has started to exceed supply, and localized flooding has become an issue. Industry experts are now recognizing the important role that rainwater harvesting (also known as rainwater recycling and grey-water recycling) has to play in alleviating both these problems. There are two classes of rainwater harvesting systems:
o Systems which collect roof runoff for household use
o Systems which use in field or adjoining catchment to provide supplemental irrigation for agriculture
Brief Description
Considerations for fitting a rainwater collection system to an existing property
o The external drainage from the roof needs to be modified to bring the water to a central point.
o Access for the tank and excavation is required.
o Internal plumbing is usually required to separate out the drinking (incl. bathing) water from the non-drinking water (WC, washing machine & outside tap).
Why harvest rainwater?
It's a shame to let runoff go to waste when it can be used indoors and/or for irrigation. The benefits of rainwater harvesting can include:
· Relief of strain on other water supply
· Ability to build or farm in areas with no other water supply
· Cleaner water
· Increased independence and water security
· Lower water supply cost
· Reduced flood flows
· Reduced topsoil loss
· Improved plant growth
· Greater sensitivity to and connection with natural cycles
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