Installing a Rainwater Collection System on Your Shed
Rainwater harvesting systems can be an economical and eco-friendly solution for many homeowners. In some states, installing one may even result in tax incentives being made available.
Basic systems typically cost between $200 to $500, including filtration and conveyance components, tank installation and first flush diverter.
Downspout screens typically cost $10-$50 and serve to prevent leaves, insects and debris from entering pipes or storage tanks containing drinking water.
How It Works
Rainwater harvesting is a way of collecting and storing rainwater that falls onto your property for use later. Otherwise, this water would drain down roofs into street drains before reaching rivers or streams – you can now reuse it for gardening and household activities by collecting it instead. There are various approaches available for collecting rainwater: from basic DIY projects to more complex systems; depending on the level of filtering/monitoring desired and any local regulations regarding harvesting systems you should choose one accordingly.
Rainwater collection systems typically comprise of collecting methods (like gutters and downspouts), collecting containers ( like barrels), and filters to prevent debris from entering the water supply. Such a setup is ideal for providing garden water or toilet flushing water needs as well as serving part or even all of your family’s daily water requirements if used as such.
More advanced rainwater harvesting systems provide advanced water filtration, storage tanks and booster pumps to bring rainwater directly into your home. While more piping may be required for installation, they allow you to use collected rainwater for washing machines, kitchen and bathroom sinks, toilets, cooking and more. In order for harvested rainwater to be suitable for drinking purposes it must first be treated before it can be consumed; typically boiling it at a rolling boil for at least one minute will kill off any disease-causing bacteria present in it.
Permeable pavement, rain gardens and swales are some other methods for harvesting rainwater that can help lower peak floodwater flows during storm events while giving soil microbes time to filter out pollutants – this can lower water bills while adding an attractive feature to your landscape design.
No matter which rainwater harvesting system you opt for, it is crucial that all non-potable pipes be clearly marked as such to avoid backflow into mains plumbing causing illness or injury. Graf UK only sells and installs systems that meet British Standard BS 8515:2009 for safety.
Materials
There are various kinds of rain barrels and equipment available to you to help collect and utilize rainfall from your own source. Some are designed to complement the aesthetic of your home while others feature more utilitarian designs to blend in with garden landscaping. There may also be decorative planter-shaped rain barrels which come complete with faucets for convenient watering needs.
Plastic rain barrels are lightweight, cost-effective and widely available. Constructed of UV-resistant polyethylene material that resists degradation from sunlight while helping prevent algae growth, plastic barrels can easily be modified for spigot installation and are less likely to crack or leak than their metal counterparts.
Metal barrels are both sturdy and more expensive than plastic alternatives, yet susceptible to corrosion that may produce metallic flavors in collected water. Metal barrels can be equipped with screen filters to capture larger debris as well as diverters to direct its flow where it’s most needed.
Some communities encourage rainwater collection by providing workshops or subsidizing equipment costs. Before installing your system, always consult your local water authority and homeowners association to make sure you have obtained any required permits or met any guidelines or restrictions in your plan.
Installation
Installing a rainwater collection system on your shed is an easy weekend project that can provide sustainable water for gardens, lawns and other outdoor uses. Not only will you save money on monthly water bills as it reduces reliance on town water sources during drought conditions – but you also conserve natural resources while helping protect soil erosion around its foundation!
Basic rainwater collection systems are relatively cost-effective and can usually be installed within two days using DIY materials from your local hardware store. They typically feature gutters, downspouts, first flush diverters, and storage tanks; if you wish to customize or enhance its functionality further there are add-ons available that can significantly boost performance.
First-flush diversters are an integral component of any rainwater collection system, serving to block debris and contaminants from entering your tank and clogging its drainage line. Gutter screens also play an important part, filtering out large debris before entering your watering system – these filters typically cost anywhere between $75 and $200 depending on size.
Tanks are the costliest component of a rainwater collection system, ranging in capacity from 1,000-15,000 gallons. To make your investment last longer and be more durable and long-term, consider opting for poly tanks – they’re highly UV stabilised, corrosion free and an excellent choice in Australia’s harsh conditions.
An efficient rainwater harvesting system can significantly lower your water bills, especially if you live in an area prone to droughts or high water prices. Furthermore, rainwater collection systems offer eco-friendly benefits for rural properties, hobby farms and garden enthusiasts, such as reduced soil erosion around sheds and structures as well as stormwater runoff control and providing reliable alternative supplies in case of power outages or seasonal droughts. Rainwater collection systems may even boost property values by providing attractive features appealing to many potential buyers; just remember to consult your local water authority first as some areas have regulations concerning their installation!
Maintenance
Rainwater harvesting systems can be an eco-friendly investment – provided they’re managed properly. Without regular upkeep, rainwater tanks and barrels may turn into health risks or structural headaches; infestations from mosquitoes, algae growth and sludge accumulation could all become risks without regular care and attention.
Skipping these key steps at your own risk: otherwise you risk creating an outdoor feast for mosquitoes no one wants. Instead, follow this playbook developed from years of homeowner struggles and lessons learned running a successful rainwater harvesting company to protect yourself from being disappointed with your eco-friendly investment come March. Now is the time to clean up, winterize, and plan improvements for your system; experienced harvesters know this and pay close attention now in order to avoid regret later on. A bit of extra attention now could save money, frustration and regret later on down the line.