By: Courtney Reopelle, SPEC PR Intern

Do you know the impact a rain shower could have on your wallet? Each drop of water you collect could save you money on your next water bill. Rainwater harvesting is a technique used to collect, store and utilize rainwater for landscape irrigation, drinking water and other daily functions.

The Rainwater Harvesting System

Collecting rainwater seems simple: place a bucket outside and let it fill up. However, a complete rainwater harvesting system includes several fundamental components:

• Catchment Surface: This could be hard, raised surface (roof) that enables water run-off. Surface smoothness and size could impact the amount of water collected, along with the given rainfall.

• Gutters/Downspouts: Directs rain from catchment surface toward storage tanks or intended irrigation area.

• Leaf Screen: Filters out any leaves or foreign objects in the water.

• Roof Washer: As rain hits, the first drops wash everything off the roof, tainting the water. Roof washers divert tainted water to a separate area.

• Storage Tanks: The most important component in a rainwater harvesting system. Could be above-ground or below-ground. Storage tanks can be made out of a variety of material, including clay, concrete or metal. Tanks should be kept away from sunlight and placed on a steady platform or area.

• Delivery System: You may either use gravity to deliver the water, or pipes to transfer the water to a specific area.

• Treatment System: If used as drinking water, harvesting system must include a purification system.

What are the benefits?

Rainwater harvesting can benefit both you and the environment.  Here are the advantages to purchasing, or building, a rainwater harvesting system:

• By storing rainwater, you could decrease flooding, erosion, run-off and water contamination.
• Rainwater does not contain chemicals, such as chloride and fluoride, which makes it an excellent source for landscape irrigation.
• Promotes energy and water conservation
• Decreases the need for imported water
• Fairly simple to install
• May decrease your water bill

While rainwater is mainly used for landscape irrigation and drinking water, it can also be used for several other functions:

• Washing clothes
• Washing cars
• Toilet flushing
• Watering gardens

By using rainwater, you could reduce main water requirements in your house by 70%.

Disadvantages

Helping your landscape thrive does seem like a wonderful idea. Nonetheless, there are a few disadvantages to consider:

• Depending on the size and complexity of your system, rainwater harvesting system could cost between $200 to $2,000.
• Rainfall is uncertain and sometimes limited. One day, you could receive a generous amount, others could prove frugal.
• Might take a substantial amount of time to “pay for itself.”
• Requires regular maintenance
• Limited storage

More information can be found at http://www.arcsa.org/ or http://rainwaterharvesting.tamu.edu/