Tag Archives: Rainwater collection

How Do I Opt Out of City Water?

We wrote about this topic all the way back in 2014. We think it bears a repeat for the many folks who are recently learning that rainwater collection is a viable option in the Seattle area and want or need to opt out of using city water.

Do you know that you can collect 624 gallons of water from 1 inch of rain with only 1,000 sq ft of roof area?  

That’s water that you can use for irrigation, toilet flushing, laundry, or even whole house potable (drinking) use. That’s right! 624 gallons. If you have a 1,500 square foot roof area in the Seattle area, this equates to 33,642 gallons of available water. Water that you don’t need to pay for.

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Interest in Rainwater Collection Sparks a Growing Industry

Interest in rainwater collection has sparked a growing industry throughout the country including the Greater Seattle and outlying areas.

How does one sort through the growing list of those who offer components, designs, and installations?

The first question you should ask yourself is “What am I looking to achieve with a rainwater harvesting system?” Am I looking for small irrigation like a few rain barrels?  Or, do I want a larger system that will supply my household with potable use? The type of system should steer you toward the appropriate expert.

After all, you wouldn’t take your car to a detailer if you were looking for a brake job.

Irrigation systems can be as simple as a few rain barrels on your back porch and is something you can easily do on your own. If a rain garden and passive infiltration  is what you are looking for, there are contractors listed, such as in Seattle’s Rain Wise program. A pressurized sprinkler system should be left to an irrigation company with experience in that field.

Rainwater systems used for domestic supply, such as toilet and laundry facilities, should be designed by a licensed engineer familiar with water systems, an American Rainwater Catchment Systems Association (ARCSA) accredited professional or a licensed plumber experienced in water systems. All should show past experience in the type of system you are looking for. Ask for that experience!

Residential, potable systems are allowed in many counties in Washington state and your consideration should be taken VERY seriously. The benefits of residential potable use are vast and can be supplemental or sole source. Only those who can prove a history of designing and installing potable use should be considered for this application, whether an engineer, ARCSA AP, or licensed plumber. Visit ARCSA for those accredited in this field.

Finally, let’s talk about components. There are a host of online dealers out there that are willing to sell you what they carry without much consideration other than cost. One may carry water tanks or another may carry ultra violet disinfection. A good rule of thumb would be that if they are selling unrelated products, they are not invested in the industry and may not have the knowledge of what is best. Our recommendation would be to seek a dealer that carries products specific to rainwater collection, not an added product to an array of different types of products. You don’t want to buy a car from a furniture company. Be a wise consumer and ask questions.

Contact us; rainwater collection is all we do.

Why Steel Tanks Make Sense For Water Storage

Why do steel tanks make sense for water storage?

Fire suppression tanks from Contain Water Systems Inc., distributed by RainBank Rainwater Systems of Seattle, are fully NFPA certified and carry a 20 year warranty. Structural and seismic engineering and full installation are available throughout the U.S. Tank packages are delivered to your site where an experienced team will assemble, test, & certify that the tank has been built to Contain Water Systems’ quality standards.

All anti vortex, penetration flanges, caged ladders, and level indicators are specified to meet your project’s NFPA 22 and OSHA requirements.

Safety is always a priority for RainBank Rainwater Systems and Contain Water Systems. A ground level, through the liner access panel eliminates confined space entry during construction and maintenance.

No matter if your project is commercial or residential, rainwater harvesting, or fire suppression, costs are always a concern. Many dealers are third or even fourth party in steel water tank sales, of course each adding their markup. As a Contain Systems Inc. distributor, there is no middleman – which boosts affordability. We sell Contain Tanks to dealers and the public. We install what we sell, no subcontractors, and we stand behind our product line. Contain Water Systems Inc. water tanks carry an unmatched 20-year warranty if installed by RainBank Rainwater Systems or a certified installer.

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