Rainwater harvesting is a growing trend among those looking to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on water bills. That being said, rainwater harvesting is a centuries-old process, used across the world, from villagers in Russia to farmers in the UK. The benefits are numerous, as RI Industries articulates in their recent blog post:

“What are the benefits of rainwater harvesting? It will reduce water bills, provide an alternative supply during water restrictions and help maintain a green, healthy garden. In fact, depending upon tank size and climate, rainwater harvesting can reduce mains water use by 100%. Rainwater harvesting also decreases storm water runoff, thereby helping to reduce local flooding and scouring of creeks.”

How to Do It

The process of collecting and harvesting is a very simple one. The key is to figure out the best area to place your collecting barrel or butt. You need to place it where it can collect as a sufficient amount of clean water. Rainwater also needs to be in an area that’s safe and easily accessible.

The best and most efficient way to collect water is by attaching some extra guttering to the guttering at the corner or side of your house, where it can flow into a large barrel, with tap attached.

The barrels are an essential component in the harvesting process, as they are your storage facilities. If you don’t get the right size or strength, you could face wasting an excessive amount of rainwater.

Using Rainwater

When it comes to the fundamental uses of rainwater, there are three distinct functions. These are:

• Irrigation use
• Indoor, non-potable use
• Whole house, potable use

However, there are a number of specific uses which you can put into effect with rainwater. These range from watering your garden in the summer months, keeping the lawn fresh and verdant, or using it to wash your car instead of tap water.

Take a look at the list below.

• Hand water your lawn and garden.
• Connect rainwater collection system to irrigation/sprinkler system, this is a particularly awesome idea for the spring and summer months, as it will keep your flowers looking extra healthy.
• Wash your car.
• Wash your pets.
• Refill your fountains and fish ponds – what better way to use natural, fluoride free water than for the birds and your fish to enjoy?
• Replace the use of tap water with rainwater to wash your driveways and patios.
• Use it for all indoor non-potable fixtures (toilets and clothes washer).
• Use it for all potable needs when properly filtered and disinfected.
• Use it for industrial processes.

Once you have worked out a rainwater harvesting system that suits you and your needs, you won’t look back. Not only will this help reduce your carbon footprint dramatically, but the amount of money you will save will be a dramatic benefit.