Rainwater harvesting is a method of water collection that stores rainfall for use by homes and businesses, providing a secondary water supply and reducing reliance on mains water. Following the droughts experienced across the UK in the last couple of years, it offers a practical way to make better use of available water in an ever changing and evolving climate.
Rainwater harvesting systems collect only rainwater that falls onto roofs, directing it through gutters and pipes that filter out debris before it is stored in dedicated water tanks. Harvested rainwater must be kept completely separate from the mains drinking water supply to prevent contamination. The stored rainwater can then be reused for non-potable purposes, such as toilet flushing, laundry and garden irrigation.
What Is the Main Benefit of Rainwater Harvesting?
There are several benefits of rainwater harvesting, but perhaps the biggest is the reduction in water bills and other regular expenses. Reusing natural water sources allows you to significantly reduce monthly water bills, allowing you to put that money elsewhere. It also gives you a secondary water source for gardening, car cleaning, and running appliances such as a washing machine or toilet. In domestic properties, using harvested rainwater can save up to 30%-50% on your water bills, according to the Renewable Energy Hub.
Here are just a few other benefits you should know about:
Increase Your Sustainability – Rainwater harvesting allows you to maximise your water efficiency by reducing your reliance on water mains and water treatment centres. This means that non-drinkable water is used exclusively for your garden or flushing toilets, while drinking water usage is reduced.
Reduce Pollution and Chemical Use – Property owners can help improve overall water quality, as rainwater harvesting systems help to catch stormwater runoff from your roof. As a result, it prevents pollutants like fertilizers, pesticides, and metals from contaminating rivers and lakes. Meanwhile, natural water eliminates limescale buildup, helping to reduce the need for cleaning appliances with chemicals.
Enhance Your Garden’s Health – With harvested rainwater, property owners can benefit from a natural, soft water source free from the chemicals, salts, and minerals commonly found in treated tap water. Connecting a rainwater harvesting tank to an irrigation system provides an efficient and sustainable way to keep gardens watered and healthy, while reducing reliance on mains water. This can also help mitigate the impact of hosepipe bans, allowing gardens and landscaped areas to continue thriving during the drought conditions that have become increasingly common in recent years, subject to local restrictions.
Gain Financial Incentives for Businesses - Business owners are often seeking ways to improve their sustainability initiatives, with businesses often receiving financial incentives to improve water sustainability. Those interested should look at the Countryside Stewardship Grants and the Farming Equipment & Technology Fund to support financial viability.
Planning Permission – Unlike many alterations to a building, planning permission is generally something that isn’t required for a rainwater harvesting system, avoiding many of the obstacles typically encountered. Planning permission may be required if the building in question is large or a commercial building.
What are the Disadvantages of Rainwater Harvesting?
While there are several benefits to rainwater harvesting, there are a few disadvantages you should consider.
Unpredictable Weather – As rainfall is never a given, the volume of rainwater available will be dependent on the seasons and weather.
Space of Storage – A larger-sized, above ground rainwater harvesting system can take up valuable space around your property, which should be considered when choosing between systems.
High-Installation Costs – The upfront cost of installation can be expensive for many businesses and homeowners; however, you will make up for and start saving costs over time.
What are the Different Types of Rainwater Harvesting Systems?
There are several types of systems that aid the harvesting of water, and as part of a Drain Doctor survey, we can assess which is the best option for your home or business.
Basic Systems
A basic rainwater harvesting system typically includes groundwater butts and standing tanks, which can hold up to 400 litres of water and can be a great option for smaller properties and grounds that require low volumes of water.
Aboveground Systems
Over-ground harvesting systems usually have a tank capacity of 800 to 100,000 litres and are more common in larger properties and commercial properties. They are easier to install and less complicated than an underground system, while their tanks can reduce environmental impact.
Underground Systems
An underground rainwater harvesting system requires excavation work, and it is especially necessary for a larger water tank where ground space is limited or restricted. These systems are more aesthetic as they are hidden and are versatile for larger properties and landscapes. They also require a pump for pushing water back out of the tank.
Regardless of whichever you choose, it’s important to continue to maintain your rainwater harvesting systems, and this can be done with regular checks from a drainage engineer.
Who Benefits from Rainwater Harvesting?
Everyone can benefit from a rainwater harvesting system, including those in domestic, agricultural, environmental, and commercial settings. Sectors where they are in demand include those with a high demand for water, including schools, leisure centres, and farms.
We’re currently in a world with more volatile weather patterns where flooding is more common. However, excessive volumes of rainwater can be stored in tanks to reduce the chances of overflow.
Regardless of the size of your property or type, there is a system that can help reduce your water bills and improve water quality.
Is Rainwater Harvesting Worth It?
Harvesting rainwater provides a secondary water source for your home, which helps to reduce your water bills over time, improves the health of plants in your garden, and gives you better property maintenance.
Getting a professional opinion and installation can help give you peace of mind that your rainwater system is maintained for emergencies and installed correctly. Our friendly team is available 24/7 and can help with any questions you may have about rainwater harvesting.
Find Your Local Rainwater Harvesting Engineer Now
At Drain Doctor, we’ve been helping home and business owners up and down the country for over 30 years and are the largest drainage specialist company in the UK. We’re here to advise on the best rainwater harvesting system for your home or business or help with any problems you have with your existing system. We are also always happy to provide in-depth advice, assistance, and recommendations.
Just follow our simple three-step process to find your local team, and we’ll be there to help whenever you need it:
· Pop your postcode into the ‘Find your local engineer’ box.
· Fill in the contact form, and a member of our team will give you a call.
· We'll let you know when your local drainage engineer will arrive via email and phone.
Regardless of the time of day or location, our local engineers are on hand to assist with any drainage or emergency plumbing or drainage request you have, and there’s no additional charge for our late-night, weekend, or bank holiday services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rainwater Harvesting?
Rainwater harvesting involves systems that collect and store rainwater. They’re usually located on roofs, for reuse in toilets, gardens, and washing machines, helping to reduce mains water use and surface water runoff.
Is Collecting Rainwater Illegal in the UK?
Collecting rainwater is not illegal in the UK, and the Environmental Agency does not regulate harvested water. Property owners can collect and store water, providing it doesn’t harm the environment and that it is stored correctly without contaminating a mains water supply.
How Long Does It Take to Install a Rainwater Harvesting System?
Most rainwater harvesting systems take between one and five days to install. However, this can be dependent on your system type, tank location, groundwork required, and the logistics around how it connects with your existing plumbing infrastructure.
Does a rainwater harvesting system need planning permission?
Large or commercial rainwater systems may need planning permission, especially if they involve major structural changes or affect listed buildings.