One inch of rainfall on a 1,000 square foot roof can generate around 600 gallons of water.
Rainwater tanks collect and store rainwater so it doesn’t go to waste. These can be simple systems, such as a gutter that directs stormwater from the roof to the tank.
More complicated systems may be made of multiple storage tanks.
In some remote areas, people cannot rely on the local government to provide water. In these cases, it’s necessary to have a rainwater tank.
Rainwater tanks may also become useful in urban areas, where there is an abundance of impervious land. Instead of letting the water runoff into storm drains, it can be collected.
Find out how they work and how they could benefit you.
Catching the Water
When it rains, you may notice the water drips from your roof and forms large pools around your home.
The muddy water may be a nuisance for a few days, and you may think to yourself, “I could use this water.” You’re right. There are a lot of good reasons to collect rainwater, which we will discuss below.
Collecting rainwater is a relatively simple process. Usually, it involves a single gutter that drains water from the roof into a tank.
These gutters should be made of specialized materials and include filtration systems. The filters will be able to catch any roof debris.
The tanks themselves come in a variety of sizes and materials, depending on your specific needs. They can also be stored under or above ground.
Any overflow can be redirected to the normal stormwater drainage system.
Using the Water
Depending on how you choose to use your water, you may need to install a pump and filters.
Then, the water can be pumped through the pipes of your home or business building for easy use.
The water will not need to be softened, but you will need to perform regular tests and maintenance to prevent algal growth. The tank should be covered to keep out mosquitos and prevent evaporation.
If you are planning on using rainwater for everyday uses, you will need to make sure your plumbing system is equipped for this.
You can even set up an irrigation system to water your garden or farm.
Being Water Wise
Collecting stormwater is a great way to preserve one of our most precious resources and reduce your dependency on local water mains. If you live in an area that gets enough rain, you could easily sustain yourself year-round.
Otherwise, a rainwater tank may just be a useful supplementary resource.
The water you collect can be used for cooking, cleaning, watering your garden, and more. With a good filtration system, you could even drink the rainwater.
In addition to being able to use the water, you reduce the amount of run-off.
If you live in an area that is prone to droughts, a rainwater tank may serve as a backup in times when supplies from the local main are low.
A Rainwater Tank for Hard Times
Some areas get far more rain than others. That means some municipalities must rely on transporting water from one area to another via aqueducts.
Rainwater tanks can help ease this pressure. Even a minimal amount of rainfall can go a long way with proper collection and storage systems.
Large steel tanks can hold emergency water supplies during droughts. In times of drought, the cost of water usage can skyrocket, making it expensive to meet even your most basic needs.
Water is a valuable resource, and you should always plan for hard times. Think of it as having an emergency savings fund for when the going gets tough.
Water supplies from year to year can be unpredictable, so it is good to have an emergency supply.
If you live in an area that gets little rainfall, it may be a good idea to resist using your rainwater while you save it for times when you absolutely need it. If this is the case, think of it as a backup.
If you live in an area that gets heavy, consistent rainfall, it may not take long to gather an 18 month supply.
Reduce Your Reliance on Local Mains
If you live out in a rural area, this may be a necessity. Your local municipality may not have enough water supply to fit your needs.
Or you may wish to reduce your dependency on the government and be more self-sufficient.
In either case, rainwater tanks are a great way to do this.
With proper collection and storage systems, you can collect enough water to sustain yourself throughout the year. This is especially true if you live in areas that get substantial and consistent rainfall each year.
However, if you live in an urban area where the air is more polluted, it is wise to avoid drinking the rainwater. Even in rural areas, you should install a filtration system if you plan on drinking the rainwater.
A rainwater collection system is essential if you are making plans toward reducing your dependency on local water supplies. Although, you may need to move out of the desert (or get really creative) if this is your plan.
Steel Water Storage Tanks
Steel Core Tank, LLC is a leading manufacturer of corrugated steel water storage tanks. We use G115 galvanized steel as our standard, which has 27% more zinc than the industry standard.
Our tanks are built to last much longer than those of other manufacturers.
Rainwater tanks are a great way to save money and become more self-sufficient. People have been harvesting rainwater for thousands of years to meet their needs.
If you are interested in purchasing a rainwater tank or want to become a dealer, contact us today.
