Rainwater Harvesting Systems: Installation and Maintenance Guide
Simple Steps for a Successful RWH System
A well-designed rainwater harvesting (RWH) system can provide thousands of liters of free water annually. The system involves three main components: the catchment surface (roof), the conveyance system (gutters and pipes), and the storage unit (tank).
Installation Guide
- **Roof Assessment:** Ensure the roof is non-toxic (e.g., iron sheets, not asbestos) and clean. Calculate the roof area to estimate potential yield.
- **Gutter Installation:** Install sturdy, leak-proof gutters with the correct gradient to ensure water flows efficiently toward the downpipes.
- **First-Flush Device:** A crucial component, the “first-flush” diverter, prevents the first few minutes of rain (which carries debris, dust, and bird droppings) from entering the storage tank.
- **Filtration:** A simple screen or mesh should be installed at the tank inlet to remove large debris before storage.
- **Tank Installation:** Tanks (plastic or underground concrete) must be securely placed, covered, and ideally placed on an elevated stand to allow gravity-fed water use.
Maintenance is simple: regularly clean gutters and remove sediment from the bottom of the tank to maintain water quality.