Rainwater tanks save water and the environment
Rainwater tanks are popular for saving water. Tanks are easy to use and available in styles to suit most homes. Rainwater tanks can also provide you with free water all year round.
7 reasons to use rainwater
- Collecting rainwater allows you to be prepared for times of low
rainfall, so you can still maintain your garden, especially if there are
water restrictions in your area. Permanent Water Saving Rules do not apply to the rainwater you catch.
- Your garden loves rainwater. You can also use it to top up your pool or to wash your car.
- Using rainwater can reduce your water bills as rainwater is free. You can have your tank connected to your outdoor taps or even plumbed
into your toilet or laundry. Toilets use approximately 14 percent of
drinking quality water in the house and washing machines use around 16
percent.
- Tanks plumbed to the toilet and laundry can be used effectively during
periods of high rainfall when you don’t need to water your garden. By
connecting a tank to the toilet or washing machine with a switching pump
you can use your tanks all year round. When tank water is available,
the pump uses it and automatically switches to mains water when the tank
is empty. You should speak to a plumber about making these connections.
- Tank water should be used in preference to greywater, especially for herbs and vegetables. Even better, use tank water in conjunction with other recommended water-saving measures like mulch, drip systems and soil additives. If you are in the process of planning a new house think about ensuring the design includes provision for a rainwater tank. At the planning stage you can arrange for a suitable space for your tank, including underground and bladder style tanks for under your decking. You will save water and add considerably to the value and enjoyment of both your house and your garden.
- Capturing rainwater reduces the load on stormwater systems because roof runoff is not flushed into the drains. Rainwater helps reduce stormwater damage to creeks.
- Using rainwater reduces the amount of mains water required to be taken from natural waterways and can defer the need to build more water storage dams.