A How-To Guide For Rainwater Harvesting

Rainwater collection is quickly gaining popularity throughout the world. In some drought-prone areas of the United States, rainwater harvesting systems have become mandatory for new homes and businesses. With some basic knowledge, enjoying the benefits of this popular trend is affordable and easy.

The Basics of Rainwater Collection

Depending on your intended use for the collected rainwater, your system can be as simple as large barrel placed near the gutter downspouts on your home. Advanced systems can include pumps, tubing, filters and other technology to increase the quality of the water.

If you do not intend to drink the water, an ideal starting point for rainwater collection is a single barrel system. With just one barrel, you can harvest enough rainwater to keep a small garden healthy, provide some outdoor fun for the children or keep your vehicles shiny and clean.

The Components of Rainwater Collection

Many home improvement stores offer pre-fabricated rainwater collection barrels. Many of these barrels are already tapped, sealed and contain filters to ensure your water is free from insects and debris. However, you can save money by building your own. There are lots of sites which show you different products and methods for rain water collection.

Online classifieds and vendors are a great source of affordable barrels. To help keep your water clean, a container with a tight-fitting lid is recommended. Paint strainers make a perfect filter to keep leaves, seeds and debris out of your tank as well. All that is left is some tubing and taps to gain access to the water and route it towards your intended destination.

Installing Your First Rainwater Collector

Simply place your barrel in a location that is higher than your intended destination and connect your tubing. A stack of cinder blocks or the patio make an ideal spot. Feed water into the barrel using your gutter downspouts or a water chain. Gravity will take care of delivering the water the moment the tap is opened. Now you are free to wash the dog, water the garden or splash in the yard with the children without worrying about wasting water or expensive utility bills.