How to use the rain water constructively?

Recycling rainwater is certainly worth doing if you want to save water and reduce your water bills. There are many things that can be done with rain water, provided one has the means of collecting, storing and properly distributing rain water.


The first thing you need is water catchment and they have to be placed in an area which is free from falling debris, leaves, branches and tiles. You can find huge plastic container that comes in various shapes and sizes and can be covered with a lid when it is not raining. In fact, you can use any empty water jugs or gallons which are clean.

In the cities, capturing rainwater from the roof is a great way to supply water for various purposes including washing clothes, watering your garden and flushing toilets. The most effective way to save money on water bills is rainwater tanks, especially if you also use other water saving devices such as water-efficient showerheads, dual flush toilets, tap timers and trigger nozzles.

Before purchasing or installing a rain water tank, you should take care of the following:

1. Selecting the right tank for your need: Rain water tanks are available in various materials and comes in different shapes and sizes. The most common material used is synthetic polymers, but you should take care of the food-grade standard of the material. Tanks are also available made from galvanized steel and concrete. Fibreglass tanks suitable for collecting rainwater are manufactured with a food-grade coating on their interior surface.

2. Installation and maintenance: The size of roof will determine the volume of water you are able to collect. You may need to make changes to the position of your downpipes to maximise the volume of water flowing to your tank.

3. Safety and water quality: The quality of water collected depends on the correct installation of the tank. The tank should be properly covered when it is not raining.

4. Building regulations: Before purchasing the water tank, check with the local health or building council regarding the standards.

Many people collect water and save it for the period of water shortage, particularly dry months. After securing a tap to these catchments, they use it for watering the gardens, washing cars, cleaning their homes and pets. If you hook up a pipe from these catchments and route it to your kitchen and bathroom, you can install a dual system where you can switch between supplied water and rainwater for washing the dishes and flushing the toilet.

Recycling rain water contributes positively to the environment and saves you money. Rain is free, we will never run out of rain (In fact many countries are facing floods due to global warming) and clean empty containers are also free. So, what are you waiting for?