Tag Archives: water system

Rainwater Catchment

5 Primary Storage Vessels For Rainwater Collection System

tank below grade w_ concrete foundationAs pervasive drought and aging infrastructure affect our ability to have enough water to meet our household, agricultural and commercial needs, rainwater collection has become a necessary avenue to meet public demand for potable and non-potable water. This post may help you decide among the 5 primary storage vessels when considering a rainwater collection system.

Whether you’re looking for a potable, or non-potable system, storage is always a big decision in the design and installation of a rainwater harvesting system. RainBank Rainwater Systems has experience in installations of buried tanks, plastic above ground tanks and steel tanks to meet its customers’ storage needs.

  1. Buried tanks have less visual impact than that of above ground tanks. Careful planning and engineering is required for this type of installation. Care must be given to surrounding vegetation and tree root systems. Grading and drainage requirements must be met so impact is reduced.
  2. Steel tanks generally can have increased volume and are usually constructed in more of a rural environment. Steel tanks require an engineered slab and must meet seismic requirements. Many find that the industrial look is aesthetically pleasing.
  3. Plastic tanks are the most cost effective and come in many sizes from 50 gallons to 10,000 gallons. Multiple tanks can be manifolded together. While most are guaranteed for UV protection, shading from the sun will increase longevity of the tank.
  4. Slimline tanks offer a compact install for the urban customer, requiring little area for storage. They can be connected together to increase volume.
  5. Cement vault storage under the dwelling can be achieved with proper engineering. This type of storage allows a large volume with no visual impact or area used up for the cistern other than below the structure itself. Care must be given structurally, as well as moisture and condensation concerns need to addressed.

With more than 15 years designing and installing rainwater collection systems in Washington, Oregon, and other states, RainBank Rainwater Systems has the experience, knowledge, and engineering to get the job done right the first time.

This is a throwback Thursday blog post, originally published under the title Choose Right Type of Storage For Water System at RainBank.info

Rainwater Catchment, Residential Rainwater Collection

Prevent Water System Leaks to Save Money

old-107311_1280According to the American Water Works Association, leaks cause 14% of household water budget.

Whether you are on city water, well, or rainwater catchment, leaks cause not only money, but possible damage to crawl spaces, insulation, sheet rock, and flooring. Leaks can be a cause of black mold, which can turn into a health concern in your own home. If you are on a rainwater collection system, 14% of your water use is a considerable loss. Nationwide, water leaks affect our aquifers, reservoirs, and municipal water supplies on a large scale. The cost of water is so inexpensive, many shrug off a small leak as a nuisance, rather than take a proactive response to correct the problem.

Occasional inspections of your water system and plumbing can save thousands of dollars in repairs if caught early – before damage is done. It can be as simple as checking under sinks, looking in the basement at plumbing connections, even turning off all use in the house and monitor the meter for a short period to see if it records any use.

If you’re on a rainwater collection system, gutters and downspouts can be a source of leaks you might not have thought of. The next time it rains, go out and look at your gutters and downspouts. Leaks usually will be from clogged down spouts, resulting in gutters overflowing. Take a look at the seams of downspouts, particularly any horizontal runs. If you find any leaks, repair with a marine adhesive or replace with solid PVC 3” or 4” pipe with glued connections. Look at the connections of your pump and filtration to be sure they show no signs of leaking. A toilet running can use a significant amount of water. If you find your toilet is running continually, check your flush valve and flapper. This is a simple and inexpensive repair that homeowners can conduct themselves.  

With simple diligence, leaks can be avoided or fixed, which saves money, time, and water. Be water wise.