Rainwater tanks collect stormwater runoff from impervious surfaces, such as roofs, reducing the amount that enters our waterways. Rainwater tanks work by storing rain when it falls. By reconfiguring your gutter system, instead of rainwater entering waterways, you can store it on your property. A rainwater tank collects rainwater from a catchment area (usually the roof) that flows through pipes to the tank.
This will be channeled to internally connected fixtures, supplying water to parts of the house (or the whole house for some). Once full, excess water flows into the storm water drainage system. A rainwater tank is a buried tank. Rainwater is stored here for a rainwater harvesting system and is used for domestic and commercial purposes as process water (for example, saving rainwater can help the environment at a greater level.
It can reduce an enormous level of erosion in the garden and around downspouts. In addition, it can also help control stormwater runoff. Rainwater harvesting can reduce flooding in certain areas. The increase in adoption is not surprising given its benefits: reducing water bill costs, decreasing flooding and mitigating water pollution.
If rainwater and mains water are interconnected (e.g. for backup), mains water must be isolated from the stormwater system by an appropriate backflow prevention device or visible air gap, as required by the Australian Plumbing Code. In these areas, NSW Health supports the use of rainwater tanks for uses not related to drinking water consumption, such as flushing toilets, washing clothes or in water heating systems, and outdoors for uses such as garden irrigation, car washing, filling swimming pools, spas and ornamental ponds, and extinguishing fires. It is important to note that, while the plastic tank is an inert container, the collected acid rain could and should be analyzed and pH adjusted before being introduced into a domestic water supply system.
Tanks are often perceived to have environmental costs that are comparatively lower than other options for increasing water supply. Using rainwater can reduce water bills, provide an alternative supply during water restrictions, and help maintain a green and healthy garden. Rainwater to supplement drinking water supply can be considered as an alternative to other water supply options, such as recycling or desalination of seawater. Water used for domestic purposes for drinking, preparing food, or bathing must meet water quality guidelines to protect your health and that of your family.
The fact that more people adopt a rainwater tank system also means that less water needs to be taken from reservoirs or dams, expanding access for the general population in dry seasons. Stored water can be used for watering gardens, agriculture, flushing toilets, in washing machines, washing cars and also for drinking, especially when no other water supplies are available, expensive or of poor quality, and when proper care is taken that the water is not contaminated and filtered properly. Huge Potential Savings If your rainwater tank is properly installed and connected to your home, you could save up to 40% of your drinking water supply. The tank can be placed on a stand, or on a garden faucet placed near the bottom of a tank to provide enough pressure to fill a watering can or pool, or slowly water a lower garden with a hose.
Almost all steel tanks currently produced for home rainwater collection come with a plastic inner liner to increase tank life, prevent leaks, and protect water quality. However, water from these sources may require additional treatment, such as filtration and disinfection, to maintain water quality. After cleaning, it is recommended to rinse the internal walls and floor of the tank with clean water. .
