19
Jul, 2022
water

How To Install A Rainwater Tank?

At present, it is important to have a rainwater harvesting system. On the one hand, it is a major advantage for preserving the ecology because it reduces the risks of flooding, erosion, and degradation of the water table. On the other hand, it is a profitable investment, allowing to reduce the consumption of drinking water.

Among the most popular rainwater harvesting systems is the rainwater tank, also called rainwater harvesting. In this article, we’ll take a look at how to install this system. So, without further ado, let’s dive into this blog and learn some of the things you need to know about installing a rainwater tank.

Choose a rainwater cistern model

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The choice of a rainwater tank model depends on the quantity of water you wish to collect and its use. There are 2 main models.

1. The aerial model 

It corresponds to the need for gardening and occasional cleaning. It is installed on stable ground and can be put under cover. It is equipped with anti-UV protection and a tap placed at the bottom to facilitate the drawing. Its connection is provided by a collector, which is equipped with a filtering system to block leaves, insects, etc. Currently, their manufacturers offer more aesthetic models with a wide variety of colors.

2. The buried model

It allows for the storage of a large amount of rainwater, but this depends on the volumes (water storage up to 25,000 L) and ranges available in the market. It is very discreet, as only its cover remains visible, and it is easy to maintain and does not require emptying in winter. It can also keep an invariable water temperature.

Its other major advantage is that it can be connected to the sanitary system of your home to facilitate your household chores such as laundry and cleaning the floor. However, the cost of its installation is more expensive than that of an overhead model. Moreover, its installation is more complex because if it is installed on wet soil, a concrete invert is required, and if it is installed on clay soil, drainage is necessary to evacuate the water around the cistern.

Choose the material for your rainwater tank.

Rainwater tanks can be made from polyethylene, PVC coating, or concrete. The polyethylene tank is effective for all seasons. It is durable (at least 20 years), recyclable and translucent (which avoids the presence of particles in the water). It is also treated with high-definition anti-UV.

The tank with PVC or polyester coating is robust against water pressure, despite its fragile appearance. It is completely closed, which prevents water evaporation and guarantees its purity. Its shape can be customized according to the shape of your land.

The concrete cistern has the power to soften and neutralize the water that is stored for a certain period of time. It requires to be completely closed to prevent the penetration of external debris and the development of pathogenic micro-organisms. It is also durable and unbreakable.

Determine the right location for the tank

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The cistern should be placed close to your house, near the downspout, and in a clear area. The surface of this area should be horizontal, flat, and level.

Prepare your land

Mark off the general area of your property where you will place your tank. Remove all loose items that can puncture the liner, such as rocks. Lay down a bed of sand about 10 cm thick and spread it with a rake.

Set up the tank

Unroll your tank liner after delivery. For good ventilation under the liner, shake out each corner and lift it up at once (at least 4 people). Then, install your water tank in its final location.

Connect the tank to your sanitary system

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Locate the connection points by first attaching the collector on the tank side to the top of the rainwater pipe, to stop the water collection when the tank is full automatically. Then, drill the gutter, install it and connect it to the tank. Then connect it to the pump at the other end. Finally, attach the safety overflow.

Sound off in the comments section below and tell us what you want to read next and if you want to read more about rainwater tanks.

16
Dec, 2021
Sustainable Development: Arguments Against the Going-Green Philosophy

3 Ways to Filter Rainwater

Water makes up 75% of the human body. It is essential to obtain it naturally. By harvesting rainwater, you can use it all the time. Here’s how to turn it into drinking water. Rainwater filtration is a great way to extend freshwater supplies, which can be used to irrigate plants or for other purposes around your home. With our ice caps melting and our freshwater sources and supplies depleting, rainwater may be the future for obtaining fresh water. So, without further ado, let’s learn more about rainwater filtration and the benefit of filtering water.

 

1. Microfiltration

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This process aims to eliminate all micro-organisms, micro-particles, polymers, and some viruses with the help of a filtering membrane. It retains part of the viral contamination. Under the effect of pressure, the liquid to be treated passes through a semi-permeable membrane of defined porosity. Particles with a size more significant than the pores are retained. Note that the size of a pore is between 0.1-10 µm. It is a physical separation technique of elements. The membranes can be organic or mineral, and this method is used in food, pharmaceutical, and other industries.

2. Ultrafiltration

It differs from microfiltration by the size of the particles. It separates particles with a size of 0.001 to 0.1 µm. Therefore, it is designed to remove all viruses, macro-proteins, antibiotics, and harmful organic substances in the food and beverage industry. Impurities are removed through this filtration system. After passing through the activated carbon filters, the water will pass through the ultrafiltration membrane. Like a very fine sieve, this membrane filters out all organic macromolecules, colloids, and nitrogenous pollution to obtain healthier water.

3. Reverse osmosis

The reverse osmosis machine filters water of the order of 0.001 µm. As it passes through the membranes, the pressure exerted by the pump forces it to pass through a semi-permeable wall. Some minerals such as calcium and magnesium, and water are retained. This membrane rejects the sewer, the one that does not pass through. Even if reverse osmosis consumes more water due to the rejection, it filters it better.

The advantages of rainwater harvesting

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There are several reasons to reclaim this abundant gift from the sky. If you collect rainwater, you can store it in a water tower and use it to wash cars or water the garden. With 6 liters of water, you could water 50 minutes of vegetable gardens. To supply the toilet and washing machine, you would need to store up to 9000 liters per year. Nowadays, water is becoming more and more scarce. That’s why we need to preserve these natural resources. Adopt an ecological action by collecting rainwater. You will avoid runoff and flooding on your property. In addition, say goodbye to the tax credit because you will realize real savings. Its moderate use reduces your annual bill by 1/3 to 1/2.

Since rainwater is naturally soft, it reduces the use of soap and other cleaning products. Its non-calcareous property increases the life span of resistance heating appliances. Rain is a dermatological ally for your skin. It alleviates dermatological problems such as shingles, eczema, or psoriasis. Both thirst-quenching and detoxifying, rainwater is better than bottled water. Its consumption has many virtues for your health if it is well filtered.

Do you already have a rainwater collection system? There are companies out there that manufacture gutters and eavestroughs made of galvanized sheet metal integrated into the exterior of your building. Its products are made of resistant materials. This way, you no longer have to turn the tap to get water. All it takes is for the rain to fall, and you can have it. Be the change you want to see in the world and start to collect and filter rainwater.