Water is becoming and increasingly valuable and limited resource. With the planet's population exceeding 7 billion, we must start to seriously consider ways to conserve our water supply. We owe it to both ourselves and future generations to protect this precious resource that we so often take for granted.
Choosing a rainwater recycling system is as easy as doing some online research. Rainwater can be used for toilets, watering the garden, showers and even in the kitchen if proper filtering devices are installed. Using rainwater will save you hundreds on your water bill and have a dramatic and positive impact on the environment.
There are many options in rainwater recycling systems and you should choose the one that best suits your needs. The most simple and cost-effective solution is a rain barrel. The barrels are relatively inexpensive but usually sit in the garden and are used exclusively for watering plants.
To make a huge difference in both your water bill and the environment, choose an above ground water tank. These will collect a larger volume of water for in-home use. Think about how much water you use while flushing the toilet? In many areas, toilet water is fresh drinking water! Why not take advantage of nature and use rainwater instead?
A below ground tank is another great option for rainwater harvesting. The tank will collect and store subsurface water. The best part is the esthetic appeal - the large base of the tank is not visible, which is great for smaller yards. Some even collect rain on their roofs to save space.
Whatever you choose it is important to have a professional install your tank. There are some considerations that must be addressed, such as water purity and mosquitoes. You have to consider the appropriate sizing of the tank too - because that will differ depending on your area and average rainfall.
Rainwater harvesting is one of the most proactive and positive steps that you can take toward conservation and reducing your carbon footprint. The additional benefit that you will notice immediately is the reduction in your water bill - making the cost of the system pay for itself in due time.
