Rainfall can be a free, plentiful source of water, and rainwater harvesting is becoming increasingly popular in suburban homes. If you’re wondering how to begin your rainwater harvesting project, this guide will lead you through the process of setting up a tank system at your own house.
Understanding Rainwater Harvesting
Rainwater harvesting is a water management system that collects and stores rain for reuse on-site, rather than allowing it to run off. It’s a sustainable practice that not only reduces the burden on your municipal water supply but also saves you money in the long run. This practice has been gaining traction in Surrey, a county in southeast England known for its heavy rainfall.
Before you begin designing your rainwater harvesting system, take a moment to understand how it works. The system comprises mainly of a catchment area (usually your roof), gutters and downpipes that channel the rain to your storage tank. The water collected can be used for a variety of purposes like watering your garden, washing cars, flushing toilets, and with proper treatment, it can even be used for drinking.
Assessing Your Rainwater Collection Potential
The first step in setting up your rainwater harvesting system is to assess your collection potential. This requires studying the average rainfall in your area and the size of your roof.
In Surrey, the average annual rainfall is about 800mm. To calculate the volume of rainwater you can potentially collect, multiply the area of your roof by the amount of rainfall. For instance, if your roof measures 100 square meters, you could potentially collect 80,000 litres of water in a year!
Remember, this is only a potential estimate. The actual collection will depend on the efficiency of your system and the intensity and frequency of the rainfall.
Designing Your Rainwater Harvesting System
A well-designed rainwater harvesting system not only effectively collects and stores rainwater but also ensures its easy access when you need it.
Your system’s design will largely depend on your home’s existing structure, the intended use of the stored water, and your budget. At a minimum, you’ll need a catchment surface (like your roof), a conveyance system (gutters and downpipes), a storage tank, and a distribution system.
Depending on your needs, you may also want to include a first-flush diverter (to discard the first dirty water after a dry spell), a filter system, and a water treatment unit.
Choosing and Installing the Storage Tank
The storage tank is a critical component of your rainwater harvesting system. It’s where all that precious rainwater will be stored until you’re ready to use it.
When selecting a tank, consider the material it’s made of (plastic, metal, concrete, etc.), its capacity, and where you’ll be installing it (above ground or underground). Ensure the tank you choose is durable, has a tight-fitting lid to prevent mosquito breeding and evaporation, and a dark colour to inhibit algae growth.
Installing a storage tank is not a DIY job unless you have the necessary skills and equipment. It’s best to hire a professional for this task to ensure the tank is properly installed and connected to your home’s plumbing system.
Understanding the Costs and Legal Aspects
Setting up a rainwater harvesting system requires a significant upfront investment. The cost will vary depending on the complexity of the system, the size of the tank, and the installation charges.
In Surrey, the cost of a typical rainwater harvesting system for a suburban home can range from £2000 to £3000, excluding VAT. However, keep in mind that a well-designed and properly maintained system will last many years and can reduce your water bill substantially, providing a good return on your investment.
Before you start your project, familiarise yourself with the legal aspects of rainwater harvesting. In the UK, planning permissions are generally not required for such systems. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your local council to avoid any legal complications.
Remember, each rainwater harvesting project is unique and requires careful planning and execution. With the right approach, you can have a successful system that saves you money and contributes to water conservation. Good luck with your project!
Case Study: A Successful Rainwater Harvesting System in Surrey
To better illustrate the process of setting up a rainwater harvesting system, let’s take a look at a practical example. In this case study, we’ll explore a suburban home in Surrey where the homeowners decided to install a rainwater collection system.
The owners of the suburban house had a roof area of around 150 square meters. Given Surrey’s average annual rainfall of 800mm, they had the potential to collect up to 120,000 litres of rainwater per year. To harness this potential, they decided to go for a closed system with a 5000-litre tank capacity.
The harvesting tank was installed underground to save space and maintain the aesthetic appeal of their property. This position also helped maintain a cool temperature for the stored water, reducing the chances of algae growth. The tank was made of durable polyethylene and painted dark blue to further inhibit algae production.
They decided to use the rainwater for non-potable purposes such as flushing toilets, watering the garden, and washing cars. Because the water wasn’t intended for drinking, they didn’t need to install a costly water treatment unit. However, they did include a first-flush diverter and a simple filter system to ensure the water was reasonably clean.
The total cost of the project, including professional installation and VAT, came to around £2500. Since the installation, the homeowners have been able to reduce their municipal water usage by about 50%, providing significant savings on their water bills and a quicker return on investment.
This case study clearly illustrates that with the right approach and careful planning, a rainwater harvesting system can be a feasible and beneficial venture for suburban homeowners in Surrey.
Conclusion: The Benefits of Rainwater Harvesting in Suburban Homes
Rainwater harvesting is more than just an eco-friendly trend; it’s a practical and sustainable way to manage water resources. Implementing such a system in a suburban home in Surrey, or any area with sufficient rainfall, can provide numerous benefits.
With a well-designed system, you could substantially reduce your reliance on municipal water, cutting your water bills and, in the long run, recouping the initial setup cost. From a broader perspective, you’re contributing to water conservation, an important aspect of sustainable living.
In terms of gardening, rainwater is softer and free from chlorine, making it better for plants compared to tap water. Plus, using untreated rainwater for flushing toilets and washing cars reduces the demand for treated drinking water for non-potable uses.
Finally, remember the process of setting up a rainwater harvesting system isn’t a one-size-fits-all. Each household will have unique requirements and constraints. However, with careful planning, professional advice, and understanding of the legal aspects, you can create a harvesting system that fits your needs and contributes to a more sustainable future.
In conclusion, if you live in an area like Surrey with significant rainfall, there’s a strong case for setting up a rainwater harvesting system. It’s an investment in your home, your wallet, and the environment.
