5 Reasons Why Rainwater Harvesting is a Good Idea

With the recent changes in global climate patterns, water scarcity is becoming more prevalent in many parts of the world. Countries, such as Australia, which is already known for its drier climate, may in years to come, experience even drier conditions. 

 

It’s with this in mind that many Australians are opting to install rainwater harvesting systems. Since this forms part of many local commercial plumbing services, installation is easier than most people think. 

 

What Exactly is Rainwater Harvesting?

If you’ve heard the term, but aren’t too sure of what it means, then we’ll start by clarifying. Typically, water harvesting refers to the process of gathering rainwater that would otherwise just be washed away. 

 

During this process, water tanks and gutter pipes are installed under your roof or connected to your gutter system to catch as much rainwater as possible. In the most basic system, water that falls onto the roof flows into the downpipes and the tanks. 

 

The tank has a tap at the bottom that makes it possible for you to connect a hose or fill a bucket. You’ll then be able to use the water for a wide variety of outdoor purposes. This can include anything from watering gardens and crop fields to washing your car. 

 

All Australians Should Invest in This Process

Rainwater harvesting is popular around the world and equally so in Australia. In fact, recent statistics have shown that an average of 1 in 4 Australian homes have some type of water harvesting tank installed on their properties. If you’re not sure how you will benefit from this type of setup, then this post will shed some light on why it’s a good idea. 

 

1. More Affordable than You Think

Many people may think that installing a water harvesting system may be costly and require an extensive setup. Fortunately, it’s more affordable than you think. Your local commercial plumber will easily be able to create a system based on your water requirements and the space you want to devote to your harvesting system. 

 

That means you can have a small system consisting of one tank or a bigger setup consisting of several tanks. Typically the system can be made using containers and additional gutters that are connected to your shed, garage, or home roof. 

 

2. Enhances the Sustainability of Your Property

One of the best ways to make your property more sustainable is by reducing your dependence on local energy supplies. In addition to investing in renewable energy, building a rainwater harvesting system is one of the more effective solutions. Setting up a rainwater harvesting system is a huge benefit if you already live in a water-scarce area. 

 

3. Gives You Easy Access to Soft Water

It’s no secret that water is put through a very stringent purifying process to make it safe for drinking and use around our homes. In this process, chemicals such as chlorine, calcium, and fluoride are used. Besides being purifying agents, these chemicals also make what’s commonly known as “hard water”. 

 

The problem with this type of water is that it can damage plants, plumbing pipes, and even components in appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers. Rainwater, on the other hand, has a neutral pH, making it a healthier option for everything from drinking to watering your veggies. Keep in mind that if you want to use your harvested rainwater inside, you will need to ask your plumber to install a filtration system into the tanks. 

 

4. Reduces the Harmful Effects of Soil Erosion

When you don’t harvest rainwater, it simply falls on the ground and washes away as stormwater runoff. Huge rain storms can lead to extensive soil erosion and in some cases, localized flooding. This becomes harmful when soil containing pesticides, herbicides, or other chemicals ends up in the runoff.

 

It can also hamper your crop gardens if you have good soil washing away. You will then need to re-nourish the soil once the rain stops. When many people opt for rainwater harvesting,  it becomes easier to control the harmful effects of soil erosion. 

 

5. Eliminates the Need for Groundwater

It may seem like a good idea to ditch water from the main water supply and opt for groundwater. However, it’s essential to highlight that this places extensive pressure on the local environment. 

 

Since groundwater isn’t always available in the quantities you may require in and around your household, this may not always be a viable option. You will have more success when you opt to harvest rainwater, and you will also reduce the pressures on local environments. 

 

Final Thoughts

It’s clear that there are many positive reasons to install a rainwater harvesting system in your backyard. Not only will you save on your water bill, but you will also place less strain on the water system in your area.

 

Since these systems are highly customisable, it’s super easy to build the most suitable size and style that accommodates your water needs and the tank capacity. Rainwater harvesting is an effective way to conserve water and save money in the process! 

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