Rainwater harvesting is collecting the run-off from a structure or other impervious surface in order to store it for later use. Traditionally, this involves harvesting the rain from a roof. The rain will collect in gutters that channel the water into downspouts and then into some sort of storage vessel. Rainwater collection systems can be as simple as collecting rain in a rain barrel or as elaborate as harvesting rainwater into large cisterns to supply your entire household demand.
The collection of rainwater is known by many names throughout the world. It ranges from rainwater collection to rainwater harvesting to rainwater catchment. In addition, terms such as roofwater collection or rooftop water collection is also used in other countries.
We believe that rainwater harvesting is a viable technology in an urban setting. All that is necessary to take advantage of this resource is to capture the free water falling on your roof and direct it to a rainwater storage tank. By doing this, you can take control of your water supply and replace all or at least a substantial portion of your water needs. Rainwater harvesting systems can be configured to supply your whole house and/or your landscape needs.
Rainwater is a relatively clean and absolutely free source of water, You have total control over your water supply (ideal for cities with water restrictions), It is socially acceptable and environmentally responsible, It promotes self-sufficiency and helps conserve water, Rainwater is better for landscape plants and gardens because it is not chlorinated, It reduces stormwater runoff from homes and businesses, It can solve the drainage problems on your property while providing you with free water, It uses simple technologies that are inexpensive and easy to maintain, It can be used as a main source of water or as a back up source to wells and municipal water, The system can be easily retrofitted to an existing structure or built during new home construction, System are very flexible and can be modular in nature, allowing expansion, reconfiguration, or relocation, if neccesary, It can provide an excellent back-up source of water for emergencies.
Here are some specific uses of rainwater in an EcoOne Home: Hand water your lawn and garden, Connect rainwater collection system to irrigation/sprinkler system, Wash vehicles, Wash pets, Refill fountains and fish ponds, Refill swimming pool, Replace the use of tap water with rainwater to wash driveways and sidewalks (if you don't use a broom), Use it for all indoor non-potable fixtures (toilets and clothes washer), Use it for all potable needs when properly filtered and disinfected.
The amount of rainfall that a system can collect is governed by the following formula: 1" of rain x 1 sq. ft. = 0.623 gallons
Or put in an easy form to remember: 1" of rain from 1,000 sq. ft. will provide 623 gallons
To calculate the amount of rainwater a system can collect, you need to know your annual average precipitation for your area.
You can use the precipitation map below to find an approximate amount for your area (click for a zoomed image).
alternatively, you can find an exact precipation amount by looking at the NCDC Monthly Precipitation Probabilities and Quintiles. Find the closest weather station to you and use the 0.5 row to determine your annual average precipitation. (click to download PDF)
Rainwater colleciton is standard to all EcoOne Homes. Even though rainwater catchment is an old technology, there have been many improvements over time through product development. So you're convinced that rainwater collection is a technology that you want to implement at your existing house. Download the PDFs below for various methods and components of rainwater harvesting and contact us.
Basics of Rainwater Harvesting - RE 101
Rain Map of USA
Monthly Precipitation Probabilities