What is Rainwater Harvesting? | Redfin

In this economy, we’re saving where we can. In this Redfin article, we’re covering everything you need to know about harvesting rainwater at your home. Whether you’ve always wanted a barrel system for your house in New Milford, CT, already have a catchment system at your rental home in Tucson, Arizona, or are interested in saving some money, keep reading for answers to why, how, and what is rainwater harvesting.

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What is rainwater harvesting?

Rainwater harvesting, or RWH for short, is the practice of collecting and storing rainwater for later use rather than just letting it run off. This “sustainable and simple yet powerful practice not only conserves water and reduces one’s footprint, but also helps protect nature and secure the future,” says Chandrima Debi.

Pros of rainwater harvesting

• Reduces your water bill
  “By collecting and storing rainwater from rooftops, households can save money and lower their utility bills by using the water for irrigation, flushing toilets, washing vehicles, and more,” says Brandi Whitaker, account and business development manager of Pioneer Water Tanks America.
• Minimizes the strain on municipal systems
  By decreasing the demand for treated water and lessening the load on drainage infrastructure, “collecting rain at home is a simple and eco-smart way that reduces strain on municipal systems,” says Homesteadin’ Hawai’i.
• Supplies you with a backup water source
  “This practical and eco-friendly solution for residential homes provides a reliable backup water source during droughts, water restrictions, or other emergencies,” says Brandi.
• Nourishes your garden
  Harvesting rainwater can be extremely beneficial for a home garden since “rainwater is naturally soft, free of chlorine, and ideal for plants,” says Matt Lebon, owner and founder of The Foodscaper.
• Prevents erosion and runoff pollution
  By capturing rainwater where it falls, rainwater harvesting reduces the volume and speed h the water flows, thus helping to prevent erosion and runoff pollution.

Cons of rainwater harvesting

• Initial cost
  While harvesting rainwater can save you money in the long run, the initial setup cost can be relatively expensive. When installing it’s especially important to not cut corners as improper systems can cause damage like hazardous water.
• Storage limitations
  Some smaller homes and properties may not have the space required to have a proper storage system
• Water quality concerns
  If not set up correctly, collected water can become contaminated by outside pollutants like animal droppings, dust, attract algae, or become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. It’s especially important to ensure the system is properly sealed, filtered, cleaned, and maintained to ensure the water is safe for use.

Why should you survey?

“Before implementing any water-harvesting techniques, understanding your land is crucial,” advises Santa Cruz Permaculture. As every plot of land varies, “effective rainwater harvesting is more than just placing a barrel under a downspout — it’s a system rooted in strategy, not sentiment,” reminds Diego Torrelio, founder and CEO of Circlefoot. 

For example, in the Bay Area, “where rainfall is sporadic and storage is limited, the real ROI begins by restoring the soil since it acts as your first reservoir,” says Diego. In this climate, he recommends first “focusing on healthy soil, followed by integrated plant systems and then subsurface or above-ground cisterns sized to your actual hydro capacity and landscape demand if needed.”

Since what’s needed differs, it’s important to first “assess your site’s topography and water flow patterns to inform effective design,” reminds Santa Cruz Permaculture.

How: harvesting rainwater ideas

Now that you’ve surveyed your land, it’s time to decide on which rainwater harvesting system is right for you, your home, and your land. While it can be complex understanding the various systems, it can be helpful to break it into four main parts: catchment, conveyance (transportation), storage, and distribution.

Rain barrels

One of the most popular, simple, and cost-effective catchment and storage options is the rain barrel. Typically, these are placed at the bottom of downspouts to catch runoff during rainfall. Since the rainwater is also stored inside the barrel, most also have a spigot at the bottom for easy access along with a mesh screen to filter out debris.

Cistern tank

For a more advanced collection system, consider an above- or underground cistern tank. Like a rain barrel, a cistern tank also collects and stores rainwater, but these can hold hundreds or even thousands of gallons. Capture roof runoff by using a rainwater harvesting system to water plants, wash outdoor surfaces, or even flush toilets, reducing demand on local water supply, cutting water bills, and managing stormwater runoff that can lead to pollution like microplastics in waterways, explains Kara Young, marketing director of Rainplan. Rainwater harvesting is not only a great trend for sustainability, but it is also a critical resource often overlooked for survival, according to JB Rainwater Harvesting. Erin Moeller, vice president of Harvest Rain, emphasizes that collecting rainwater can transform your roof into a valuable resource, whether for irrigation or a whole-house potable system.

Installing a rainwater system can have a significant impact on promoting ecological balance, economic stability, and climate resilience. JB Rainwater Harvesting highlights the importance of individuals adopting rainwater harvesting to contribute to a sustainable future and ensure water security for future generations.

Erin also points out that a well-designed rainwater system not only reduces water bills but also builds long-term property resilience and reduces the impact on local water sources.

FAQs:

– Is harvesting rainwater illegal?
There are no federal laws prohibiting rainwater harvesting, but restrictions and permits vary by state. It is recommended to check local guidelines before starting. Marianna Sachse suggests contacting local government for incentive programs, such as cost offsets for rain barrel installation.

– Is a rainwater harvesting system expensive?
The cost of a rainwater harvesting system depends on the chosen system. Moshe Belilty of Hilico states that these systems are practical, affordable, and flexible solutions that work in both urban and rural settings. They can also help lower utility bills and act as long-term investments.

– Is harvesting rainwater similar to solar panels?
Both rainwater harvesting systems and solar panels offer opportunities to generate clean energy, reduce bills, and minimize environmental impact. Ivan Lu of Ivan the Solar Guy recommends pairing solar and rainwater harvesting for sustainable living and long-term cost savings. The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog.