Harvesting Rainwater: Conserving Water the Healthy Way

Collecting or harvesting rainwater is something I feel should be done by everyone where possible. It just makes perfect sense to utilize our natural resources and conserve water wherever we are able. In some area is isn't possible to harvest rainwater for drinking or cooking, since pesticides from nearby factories or aerial spraying can pose health risks.

However, it is possible to use this water for most gardening use, although perhaps not vegetables if sprays or other toxins are present. In some countries such as Australia, the humble rainwater tanks is visible where ever you go. Most older homes or farms have a corrugated iron tank next to the house. These tanks have piping which leads to the kitchen sink, and sometimes the laundry where fresh water is always on tap. Most laundry is done using regular tap water, but smalls, whites and other delicates keep a much better color if rainwater is used. It can also be used just for your final rinse to keep items bright and cheery.

Depending on your roofing material, collecting rainwater for drinking should not be a problem, although some shingles will give the water a less than pleasant taste. Contact your local council or health department too, to see if permits are required in your area when installing a rainwater tank or other collection system. If you have medical problems you may even be able to get financial assistance for doing so. Also check to see if there are any other rebates offered via your local water authority.

Types Of Rainwater Tanks:

There are plenty of choices when it comes to storing your fresh water. Corrugated iron tanks are are great standby, although these days most are constructed from fiberglass or similar materials. Large plastic drums like a 55 or 44 gallon drum can be readily purchased. Some will even offer delivery and installation for you. These may or may not come with fittings which redirect the water from your downpipes right into the drum. Ask your dealer what your options are as there may be additional expense involved. If you need to have guttering installed, it may not be essential to have it all around your house if you only use a small barrel.

Uses:

When watering your garden, a hose can be run directly from a separate outlet on the tank specifically for this purpose. Others may see you needing a special hose clamp or fitting to run it from the tap itself. If you have a large garden, you can run a wider diameter hose along the ground moving it occasionally and flood irrigate your garden slowly. If you happen to have a very large tanks, send some to the bathroom for your tub and shower, it can do wonders when washing your hair. Consider too, how much water is used when washing the car. Most people with newer models do not like taking them through a commercial car wash for fear of damage. Many gallons of water are wasted when washing a car.

Precautions For Safe Drinking Water:

If you have a redirected indoor fitting to your kitchen for drinking and cooking water, it is important that you take precautions to keep the water very clean and clear. Mosquitoes can enter and lay their young in the water, so a lid is always necessary. As well as this, birds and small rodents can gain access, and your children could also be in danger if there is access to the tank. You may wish to install a water filter on your kitchen tap to ensure the cleanest water possible once inside the home.

Sources:

For more information on rainwater collection and descriptions of storage systems available, please visit:

http://rainbarrelguide.com/