Unlike tapwater, rainwater is completely free of chemicals and minerals.
Rainwater harvesting is an ancient technique that is currently growing in popularity. Collecting and using rainwater at home can save you money on your water bill, and reduces the strain on public water systems and natural aquifers. Rainwater is naturally soft and completely free of chlorine and other chemicals and minerals, making it ideal for many of your daily water uses. Collecting it is easy; all you need is a roof, a downspout and a rain barrel. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Harvesting
1. Purchase a rain barrel. Ensure that your barrel has a spigot at the base to connect to a hose, or to drain into watering cans or buckets. Look for barrels that have overflow spouts, or ones that can be connected to other barrels to accommodate excess water.
2. Install a screen or mesh on the top of your barrel to keep leaves and other debris out. This will prevent clogging of the spigot and maintain water quality. A screen will also help to keep out breeding mosquitoes. Consider child-proofing the lid if you have children.
3. Elevate the barrel high enough that a watering can or bucket can be placed under the spigot. You can easily create a stable platform using concrete blocks. Raising the barrel will also increase the flow of water when using a hose.
4. Install your barrel under one of the downspouts on your house, and arrange the downspout so that it empties into the barrel. To maximize your water collection, install a barrel under each downspout on your house.
Water Use
5. Use your rainwater when watering your lawn or garden. Pure rainwater is what your plants are designed to utilize. Because it is completely free of chemicals or minerals, rainwater is the healthiest choice for your plants and grass.
6. Wash your car, boat or windows with rainwater. Unlike tapwater, rainwater leaves almost no water spots or streaks.
7. Use rainwater to top up your swimming pool or hot tub. These artificial reservoirs use large amounts of your drinking water which is costly and hard on municipal water systems. Rainwater is a cheaper and more environmentally friendly choice.
8. Mop your floors with rainwater, and use it for other household cleaning too. Rainwater can be used almost any time you need water for something other than drinking.
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