What is a decentralized rainwater harvesting and re-use? In its simplest and most cost effective form, it's a rainwater water tank on your property, along with a low cost delivery system (pump).
To gain the most from your investment in a rainwater tank, there are a few factors to consider.
Firstly the practical considerations.
1. Available Space (usually in proximity to your roof downpipes). Given the tremendous rainwater harvesting potential of even the smallest roof area, my recommendation has always been to invest in the largest water tank possible given both the ground space and height available. In over 15 years of being in the industry, I have never heard a single person complain about their tank being too large. On the contrary, people often comment that the tank they purchased is too easily emptied and they wished they'd invested in a larger model.
Water storage capacity (capturing free rainwater) is the reason most people purchase a water tank. It's important to keep in mind that rainfall isn't necessarily consistent. It's best to catch as much of it as possible when it's available.
2. Access to the Proposed Tank Location. To avoid the cost of hiring equipment (e.g., a crane), it's important to consider access to your proposed tank location. Can the tank you have in mind be readily moved into the end location? Are their gate widths and other obstacles to consider? Planning ahead in this regard can prevent heartache down the track.
3. Aesthetics. Your rainwater tank is going to be a part of your home, so it's important to consider the visuals. Most tanks on the market today (especially polythylene/plastic and steel tanks) are available in a wide variety of colours. These colours are often exact matches for the colours used in other components of the home (e.g., guttering, fences, roofs). Of course, another option is to blend in with surrounding foliage. One of the many shades of greens that modern tanks come in is often the best bet.
As well as the practical considerations, I suggest that people clarify what they're looking to achieve by investing in a water tank.
Some common aims include:
Saving Money. Brisbane (my part of the world) and the rest of South East Queensland's rainfall is sporadic, but considerable. Whilst it's not consistent (regular lengthy dry spells), with our significant storms in particular, the average Brisbane home has the ability to fill (and empty) a 5,000 Litre (1,100 Gallon) water tank up to 26 times a year.
Capturing up to 130,000 litres of free rainwater represents a sizeable financial saving for most home owners in Brisbane and throughout South East Queensland.
Lifestyle Benefits. Many of us have stark memories of the stringent water restrictions that are often introduced by government entities following sustained droughts. Rainwater from your tank represents a clear and hassle-free avenue to keeping your lawn lush and gardens green.
Of course, there are many other lifestyle benefits to enjoy from having a water tank or two around even the smallest home. The ability to wash the car, the home, the dog, the boat etc whenever you want, guilt free in an environmentally-friendly fashion, are just a few of the other benefits that come to mind.
By Joe M Cooper
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8725166
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