Tag Archives: UV light

Rainwater Catchment

Building a Potable Rainwater Collection System

sun-11129_640There are several stages to building a successful, potable rainwater collection system. Here is an article originally published in June 2014, under the title Ultraviolet Light Disinfection For Rainwater Harvesting. (Also see “How to Build a Rainwater Collection System, parts one, two, three, four, five, six, seven and eight.)

The final stage of treatment for a potable rainwater collection system is ultraviolet light disinfection (UV). Effectiveness of the UV system is determined by a few factors.  First, pre-filtration, which includes a sediment filter and a carbon filter that need to be upstream of the UV. This will help ensure the clarity of water entering the UV chamber, enabling the UV rays to penetrate the water stream.

When UV energy is absorbed by the reproductive mechanisms of bacteria and viruses, the genetic material is “rearranged” and can no longer reproduce, with risk of disease eliminated.

There are 2 classifications of UV light determined by the dosage of the UV light itself, and a class “A” UV is the only class recommended for disinfection of rainwater collected from a rooftop.

The American Water Works Association describes a class A ultraviolet system as an effective method of disinfection for water that is not determined safe to drink. A class B ultraviolet system is only effective for water already deemed safe to drink – such as a water source already treated with chlorine.

An alarm and or solenoid valve for system fail safe is always a good idea to include with your UV system. This method will shut down the system or sound an alarm if a sensor determines the water turbidity (clarity) is not sufficient for proper UV absorption.

Ultraviolet light is a natural, cost effective environmentally safe method of disinfecting drinking water as long as it is properly maintained and the bulb is changed according to manufacturer’s recommendations.

As always, before you take on a rainwater harvesting project, know the rules in your state, county and municipality. It helps to work with a RWC pro who can help you through the process, saving you time and money along the way, while also ensuring that the result is a functioning and safe water collection system that will serve you for many years.

Rainwater Catchment, Technical Information

Considerations for Water Treatment

FiltrationRainBank Rainwater Systems designs and installs custom treatment systems to meet customers’ specific needs.

Harmful bacteria, pathogens, and cysts removal is a must in a potable rainwater collection disinfection train. This is typically achieved with a class “A” UV light. Flow rates are calculated to achieve the correct amount of contact time with the UV spectrum for proper disinfection. The correct class of UV for a specific application is required. A class “A” UV must be used for water that is not deemed safe to drink. A class “B” is only used for water that has already been safe to drink.

But there are other considerations for water treatment. The raw water must be relatively free of sediments, turbidity, organics and inorganics before entering the UV chamber. The UV spectrum will not be able to penetrate the water column effectively otherwise. Special consideration of environmental constituents should also be addressed for proper treatment.

Environmental concerns can include location of collection area. Where is the house located?  Possible hydrocarbons Skagit_Filtrationfrom a nearby freeway would be a concern. Pesticide use from farming or city landscaping maintenance should be considered. Roof material and manufacturing process could pose a health threat and should be addressed – all of which can be corrected with proper filtration, whether it is accomplished with canister elements or back flush devices.

Rainwater is typically acidic, approximately 5.5 to 6.0 ph; nominal being 7.0 ph. The lower ph levels, while not considered harmful to humans, can have a negative effect on plumbing and fixtures. A more nominal ph level can be achieved with proper treatment.

Rainwater is relatively clean to begin with; much more than surface water. It is what it comes in contact with that can change its purity. Proper design and installation of a filtration and disinfection only comes from using the “right tools for the job”.