Complex installations are best left to professionals knowledgeable about restrictions and permit requirements.
Warning
Collecting rainwater for personal use is restricted and even illegal in some states.
If you are unsure about restrictions in your state, contact your local cooperative extension office for information.
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Tip
Harvested rainwater is not considered potable (drinkable).
However, the addition of a filtering system can make it suitable for drinking and cooking.
Some punch in of purification element is recommended to remove bacteria collected from surfaces like roofs.
The method most familiar is rooftop runoff.
A catch basin such as a rain barrel is placed under a building downspout to collect and store rainwater.
Groundwater Recharge
Groundwater recharge is a system built to collect rainwater runoff at ground level.
Moving the water for irrigation or household plumbing requires piping.
Collecting rainwater for personal use can be as simple as setting out a bucket.
Rain Barrels
Therain barrelserves as the catch basin.
Most commercial types are constructed with molded plastics, but a large garbage can works too.
A spigot with an on-off valve is installed on the lower portion of the barrel.
Rain barrels are usually placed directly under a gutter or downspout.
The higher the spigot is placed, the greater the water pressure on release.
Keep in mind, though, that it won’t equal the pressure supplied by a municipal water source.
Rain barrels should be cleaned or flushed annually.
Some commercial barrels are made to withstand freezing temperatures.
it’s possible for you to also insulate or move yours to an indoor location in colder climates.
Rain barrels are a fairly simpleDIY projectand are available for purchase at retail outlets and garden centers.
Some local governments and conservation organizations offer free barrels as an incentive for homeowners.
Cisterns
Cisterns are underground or partially submerged, covered structures that hold and pump out water.
Pumps powered by electricity or solar energy retrieve the water.
Piping may be included for distribution.
Depending on the jot down of pump, water can be directed to areas distant from the source.
A cistern does require upkeep including regular cleaning of both the storage unit and distribution system.
Piping may also require insulation or winterizing in colder climates.
All rainwater collection systems are designed to be efficient.
Rain barrels are the simplest and most budget-friendly way to harvest rainwater.
Saving and Using Rainwater.
University of Florida Extension.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Environmental concerns for stormwater and rainwater harvest and use/reuse.Minnesota Stormwater Manual.
