These tanks serve various purposes in today's world. In general, we can say that these tanks are tools that store a liquid or food item for preservation and use when needed. People who hear about rainwater harvesting for the first time might not find these systems effective, but in the long run, they are highly efficient and effective for water conservation.
These tanks are manufactured using three different materials: polyethylene, polyester, and stainless-steel sheets. Polyethylene water tanks are commonly used in rainwater harvesting due to their various design options and cost-effectiveness. These tanks offer many advantages to users. Let's focus on the advantages of these tanks before discussing the components of a rainwater harvesting system.
These tanks are produced in their original material color as per manufacturing standards. However, they can be painted in any color according to customer preferences, providing a variety of color options to users.
The most significant feature of these tanks is their international food-grade compatibility.
These tanks are UV stabilized, meaning they do not allow harmful UV rays to penetrate, providing high ultraviolet ray resistance. This prevents the formation of algae and mold inside the tanks, creating a healthier environment.
All tanks come with a two-year warranty against manufacturing defects, ensuring peace of mind for buyers.
During production, recycled materials or any color additives that could harm the tank are not used. This results in the tanks having a longer lifespan.
Tanks made of polyethylene material are produced as monoblocks, meaning they are made in a single piece, making them easier to clean.
Now that we've learned about the advantages of these tanks, let's move on to the components required for rainwater harvesting. Here are the components needed for rainwater harvesting:
Rainwater Collection Area
One of the most crucial components of rainwater harvesting systems is the rainwater collection area, as this is where the water originates. In smaller systems, this area can be as simple as the roof. However, for larger projects, it's essential to select an area where rain is abundant. In these cases, architectural structures resembling funnels are often used to maximize the rain collection area. You might want to consult an engineer to design your building to create more rainwater collection space.
Rainwater Storage: Another critical component is the storage of collected rainwater. This is primarily done through water tanks. To save on costs, you might consider using polyethylene tanks, which are suitable for both above ground and underground applications. These tanks are available in various sizes to suit almost any need. For larger projects, stainless steel tanks are preferred because they can be assembled on-site, even in hard-to-reach areas. These tanks are often equipped with legs, minimizing ground contact.
Distribution of Rainwater
Thanks to rainwater harvesting systems, rainwater can be reused. During the storage stage, connectors are added, usually made of food-grade stainless brass. Faucets can be connected to these connectors from almost anywhere, allowing for the distribution of rainwater. These systems can also be expanded with connections between multiple tanks, enabling rainwater distribution between them.
Rainwater Utilization
Harvesting rainwater is not enough; it must be used efficiently. For systems installed in homes, it's essential to place a filter at the entrance to the tank to prevent debris from the roof or collection area from entering. Properly filtered rainwater can be used for various purposes, including cleaning and plant irrigation. With adequate filtration and treatment, it can even be used as drinking water. Water purification devices are available for this purpose.
Rainwater Recirculation
The goal of rainwater harvesting systems is to recycle rainwater repeatedly. These systems play a crucial role in reducing environmental impact and conserving water. This is why it's essential to encourage the installation of these systems, even at the household level. They are easy to set up and have a positive impact on your water bills. Remember, water is a precious resource, and we can work together to preserve it.
Why Harvesting Rainwater Is Important?
Rainwater harvesting is vital for reducing costs, which is especially crucial in these days when inflation significantly affects our lives. However, these systems are even more crucial than we think.
Scientists predict that water scarcity and drought are looming threats to the world's future, affecting many major cities, including Mexico City, Sydney, and Istanbul. These cities share the commonality of having large populations. Sydney appears to have solved this problem by utilizing large-scale rainwater harvesting systems. To prevent similar water issues in Istanbul, these systems need to become more widespread.
Today, there are still cities suffering from water scarcity, such as Cape Town in South Africa. Water is so scarce there that it's the most valuable resource. In Cape Town, a single bucket of water is reused for various purposes, from hand washing to toilet flushing.
To protect our future and water resources, these systems are crucial. So, it's a good idea to install these systems in your home at least. You lose nothing and gain everything. They are easy to install and positively impact your water bill. Water is essential, and together we can save it.