More individuals are now setting up rainwater collection in their homes. Aside from its positive impact on the environment, it can also provide free water that can be used for different household needs.
Rainwater harvesting is a practice that has been around for thousands of years. It also provides a solution for off-grid homes’ lack of connection to the primary water source. However, this is also a smart choice for urban homes. With the help of modern equipment, rainwater harvesting can now be done more efficiently.
That said, here are five benefits of harvesting rainwater for your home.
- Reduces Your Water Bill
One great benefit of harvesting rainwater is reducing your water bill. Since you’ll have an additional water source for non-potable uses, you can now lessen your water consumption from the primary source.
Rainwater is free. Instead of simply letting the water flow to the soil and drainages, it’s an economical option for areas with enough rain each year. All you need to do is to set up a rainwater system that fits your needs.
To start, determine how much rainwater you expect to collect for a certain period. Then, you may now call in an expert to set up your system with high-quality rainwater harvesting equipment like these tanks.
The total area of your roof and the average rainfall in your area will determine the sizes of your tanks. If you want to use rainwater for other uses like washing dishes, doing laundry, or taking a bath or shower, you may also install a water treatment system. More rainwater saved means greater savings in your water bill.
- Provides Healthy Water For Plants
If you’re not yet decided to install a filtration or treatment system, the best way to use rainwater is for watering your garden or lawn. Rainwater is organic, and it’s better for plants since it doesn’t contain chemicals added to treated potable water.
Tap water commonly has high chloride levels, hindering the plants’ ability to absorb nutrients from the soil in the long run. On the other hand, rainwater is rich in nitrates, a significant compound for photosynthesis.
Whether you have an outdoor or indoor garden, collecting rainwater will help your plants grow better. On top of that, it’s also a great way to cut off the cost of watering large lawns or gardens.
Moreover, setting up a rainwater harvesting system solely for your home garden is cheaper and less complicated. Although this can be an interesting DIY project, it’s still best to get the help of experts to avoid hassles.
- Helps Conserve Clean Water
Although the planet has an abundant water source, it will eventually run out if not properly conserved. This is why finding an alternative water source for your home is an essential step to help the environment.
If your goal is to live sustainably, setting up a rainwater harvesting system should be top of your to-do list. Saving rainwater for non-potable use can significantly lessen the consumption of clean, treated water.
Harvesting rainwater is also a smart solution to water shortage. As urban areas get crowded, plus the increasing number of establishments needing water, this problem should be addressed before it happens. Thus, setting up a rainwater system in your home is one way to ensure you’ll have a backup water source in cases of shortage.
Moreover, harvesting rainwater can also reduce the usage of water from the ground and rivers or lakes. On a larger scale, this simple effort of collecting rainwater can also help maintain the balance on water ecosystems.
- Lowers Overall Energy Consumption
Harvesting rainwater for your home is one of the best ways to reduce its carbon footprint. Aside from giving you a sustainable water source, it also provides an opportunity to reduce your overall energy consumption.
Keeping the water running from its natural source to water treatment facilities and your home consumes a significant amount of energy. Therefore, reducing your home’s total water consumption from the main source can also lessen the energy needed to treat and pump water in your community.
In contrast, rainwater systems consume less energy. Although the energy consumption still depends on how complex your system is, it is still way more energy-efficient. Rainwater systems just need gravity and a low-power pump to keep the water running.
- Lessens The Risk Of Flooding And Soil Erosion
Collecting rainwater can help prevent floods, especially during heavy rain. It also lessens the risk of soil erosion since the water doesn’t end up straight to the ground.
For typhoon-prone regions, the risk of flooding is always present. In addition to the community developer’s effort for flood control, setting up a home rainwater system is another excellent solution. Since rainwater is collected instead of flowing directly to the drainage system, floods can be managed better, especially in low lands.
Furthermore, rainwater harvesting can also help prevent soil erosion. Heavy rainfall triggers heavy water flow that can carry away soil. By collecting rainwater, you’re reducing the amount of water that flows directly to the ground. This is one of the most efficient ways of saving water and protecting your land from erosion.
Conclusion
Harvesting rainwater is a smart way to make your home self-sufficient. It saves water, energy, as well as money. Therefore, setting up a home rainwater system should be on top of your next home improvement project list.
