Monthly Archives: January 2015

Rainwater Catchment

Rainwater Collection is a Simple Source for Decentralized Water

decentralized waterRainwater collection, a simple source for decentralized water, can be the answer to our aging, centralized water systems. With expected increased demand from high density development and the high cost of upgrading infrastructure to meet those demands, water will become the new commodity. Much has been discussed about privatization of water districts in order to fund these expenses, turning these districts into “for profit” businesses.  Large corporations such as Nestlé are actively pursuing this new business model.

What effect will privatization and profit generating water companies have on water supplies? Will Wall Street play a part in the trading, much like oil or any other commodity? What then will happen to the average consumer? What level will supply and demand hold on the price and pricing of water?

Rainwater collection and use can play an important role in not only supply, but potentially help keep costs down for the consumer and water districts. Simple water conservation, along with  collection can decrease supply and demand by supplementing centralized water. A rainwater collection system used only for toilet flushing and laundry facilities can save the average home 50% of its use. Commercial buildings can supply their irrigation and toilet flushing needs with rainwater collection while saving thousands of cubic yards of centralized water consumption.

The supply and demand of centralized water can be mitigated with rainwater collection on a large scale by small supplementary rainwater collection systems for commercial and residential use.

Professional Development

ARCSA Professional Development for Rainwater Harvesting Professionals – January 2015

arcsa-new-logoRainBank is ARCSA’s Northwest Regional Representative and will share and promote ARCSA’s mission to promote sustainable rainwater harvesting practices to help solve potable, non-potable, stormwater and energy challenges throughout the world.

Here are some upcoming ARCSA education opportunities that would benefit rainwater harvesting industry professionals at varying levels of professional development.  Subscribe to RainBank’s blog (check box below) to receive more notifications, or subscribe directly to ARCSA’s newsletter.

 

Rainwater Catchment

Where Does a Rainwater Collection System Begin?

gabled houseA Rainwater collection system begins at the roof and ends at point of entry or use.

A well designed rainwater collection system considers what type of roofing material is to be used as the collection surface and what environmental hazards may be present in the surrounding area.

For instance, collecting rainwater for potable usage from a roof adjacent to a stockyard would not be a good idea, for airborne particulate from fecal matter can land on the roof.  Additionally, collecting from a roof near an interstate could have petroleum deposits. Cedar is poisonous, therefore should not be considered for collection for a potable system. Check with the manufacturer of any asphalt shingle type roofing for possible contaminants used in manufacturing.

It is recommended that a “raw water” sample be taken from the downspout and tested for contaminants before construction of a potable system.

Metal is the best choice of roofing material for collecting rainwater for potable usage, however clay, ceramic tile, fiberglass, and plastics are all compatible with collecting rainwater for potable use. Other materials can be considered if not used for potable usage or if carefully evaluated for safety.

“Gabled Houses” courtesy of duron123 / www.freedigitalphotos.net

Do you have more questions about your rainwater collection system?  Contact us!