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5 Rainwater Collection Systems

Water has always been and continues to be an element of vital importance for the normal development of our lives, which is why it is a very precious commodity. That is why, nowadays, rainwater collection systems continue to be developed, which generate significant savings in applications such as bathrooms, fire-fighting systems and irrigation.

These systems, depending on various factors, such as the catchment area and the average annual rainfall, are capable of supplying between up to 15% or 30% of sanitary water consumption. Another good thing that these systems have is that they start from a fairly simple premise and mechanics, which can only use gravity to start up, and consists of the following stages:

  • Collection or collection
  • Treatment
  • Storage
  • Supply or distribution

Variety of rainwater harvesting systems

Once the feasibility of installing a rainwater collection system has been verified, based on the cubic meters that fall of water per year in the area in question and the available catchment area, you must select which system or systems to adopt according to our needs:

Modular outdoor tanks

These types of tanks allow large amounts of water to be stored for a long time without having to undertake large works or excavations. They usually store up to 1000 liters of water per unit and allow several units to be coupled in case of needing more storage capacity, thanks to the fact that they are made of light materials that facilitate their installation. The disadvantage of this type of tanks is that they occupy a considerable space and represent an element attached to the architecture that is difficult to disguise aesthetically.

Dispensing tanks

They are deposited connected to the rainwater drainage system, which allow water to be collected and dispensed when necessary, they are managed in low storage capacities for domestic and gardening uses, they do not exceed 100 liters, but they have the advantage of being able to dispose of easily from the collected water and that its dimensions allow it to be aesthetically integrated and even become a decorative piece in itself.

Tanks underground

These tanks allow large amounts of water to be stored without affecting the visual, but since they are underground they require a much more complex and expensive installation, so it is best if they are planned at the beginning of construction. Currently there are new alternatives, such as modular underground tanks that have load-bearing capacities and can be installed in the foundations of the construction itself, and their modularity allows covering the necessary surface, adding and connecting modules of approximately 200 liters each.

Decorative tanks

They are medium-sized elements connected to the collection of rainwater, but designed with an aesthetic and decorative value, being able to take the form of large vases or pots, they are capable of storing even more than 600 liters, some of them, including filtering systems inside to make the water drinkable. The limitation of this type of tank is that due to its aesthetic function it is difficult to connect them to the sanitary supply network, which is why most have their own dispensing system.

Filters

The more capable the system of filtering rainwater, the broader the range of applications for the collected water. Depending on the need, there are different types of rainwater filters, the most complete and advanced are capable of deeply filtering the solid contents of the water and discarding the first liters collected, since they drag surface dirt; some offer the possibility of making the water drinkable. On the other hand, there are also cheaper and easier-to-install options available, which allow enough water to be cleaned to be used for irrigation and cleaning, and at the same time taking care of the storage system.

Benefits of rainwater harvesting

Just to give an example, the toilet flush represents 35% of the average daily consumption of the home, part of the total consumption that can be easily covered with rainwater collection systems, not counting the water used for cleaning and irrigation.

In addition to the obvious reduction in water consumption, and its respective economic savings, it can translate into savings in electrical energy that is normally used to deliver drinking water to our homes or offices. In short, they are systems whose application must be previously studied, but once correctly estimated, they can bring economic and, of course, environmental benefits.

1. It is sustainable

When we affirm that collecting rainwater is sustainable, we are referring to the fact that this is a true solution to the problem of water shortages, insofar as it is capable of satisfying the particular requirements or needs of the home at the present time, but that the implementation of this system will also remain for future generations.

Likewise, the most important thing is that with a system to collect and store rainwater, it is possible to satisfy a fundamental need without compromising the environment, the economy, the community or the space where it is installed. Rainwater collection systems are characterized precisely because they achieve their objectives by managing these resources very well, while respecting nature.

2. The water is of high quality

Rainwater is of high physical-chemical quality. It has no chemical residues such as chlorine or lime, although its direct consumption is not recommended. You can use it to water plants, because as it does not have mineral residues or chlorine it is fantastic for their care. You can also use it to wash clothes, and in household cleaning activities and more.

3. You can water plants in dry season

One of the most devastating effects of global warming is that temperatures have risen, making summers or times of heat and drought longer and more extreme. In many places the average temperatures of these times of the year have been altered, and with it the plants and other living beings suffer, which are not used to these harsh environmental conditions and end up dying.

4. You have an independent system

It is very difficult and cumbersome to depend on the vagaries of an unreliable aqueduct system or, worse, to have to hire tanker trucks to supply the area where you live and be subject to the availability of the service in addition to having to pay a lot of money.

Forget about having to wait for other people, worrying if you will have enough water to face the hot season; With the rainwater catchment system you can solve the problem of water supply in your home permanently as it will allow you to reuse rainwater and store it until you need it.

5. Low long-term investment

Rainwater harvesting systems require a fairly discreet initial investment, even if installation costs are taken into account, but it is made to last for several generations as it is made with quality materials. As it does not have electronic elements, its installation and maintenance is quite simple. In addition, it does not consume electricity or any other type of fuel. This is truly sustainable, sustainable and kind to the environment.

6. Reduces flooding and erosion

Global warming has also affected the rainy seasons, causing rainfall to become more frequent and dense at less expected times, causing erosion and flooding.

When you have a rainwater harvesting system, the rainwater is channeled into a storage tank, where it can remain drinkable for many months.

ABOUT
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Hi, my name is Tony Overton. I'm a businessman and engineer with a corporate management background. I try my best to keep fit and healthy and to develop a good work / life balance where I can experience the best that life has to offer whilst pursuing my business focus to be the most successful that I can be. On this blog, you will find out how I am able to achieve the success and results and at the same time talk about lifestyle topics that I'm sure you'll enjoy.

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