Rainwater harvesting: what is it?

In our world, all the water sources we use are essentially rainwater. Our seas, natural spring waters, reservoirs, thermal springs, and all other water sources come into existence when raindrops fall to the ground. Rainwater that accumulates in different areas is used for various purposes. Rainwater harvesting tank allows us to create our own usable water source and fulfill our responsibilities as individuals by converting our natural water sources for use.

What is rainwater harvesting?

"Water" has always been one of humanity's most basic needs. Various historical structures from ancient times, such as water wells and cisterns, have always fascinated us. In the past, due to the absence of large dams, people met their water needs through these facilities. The goal was to collect large amounts of naturally occurring rainwater and use it. This approach from ancient times is now emerging as an innovative system called rainwater harvesting. The aim has always been to meet the most basic need, water, in a simple, economical, and fast way.

Rainwater harvesting, frequently used in various developed countries today, is not used in our country and other water-scarce nations to a sufficient extent. Rainwater harvesting is simply defined as the collection and reuse of rainwater. Water harvesting is a method that serves an important function in protecting the environment and our natural resources. Moreover, by collecting and reusing rainwater, it creates high economic returns.

How is rainwater harvesting done?

The increase in precipitation during the autumn, winter, and spring months creates suitable conditions for rainwater storage. Especially in the winter, the melted water from snow and ice-covered roofs is considered efficient water for use. You can collect and store these water sources for reuse by placing them in large-capacity rainwater tanks, either above or below the ground.

How is rainwater stored?

Continuous human effort is not required for the storage of rainwater. The process of collecting rainwater can be automated and simplified through systems created at the beginning of the process after rainfall. To implement rainwater harvesting, you can quickly establish your systems using the rules listed below:

• There should be a structure that efficiently collects rainwater.
• There should be a rainwater tank for storing rainwater, either above or below the ground. As Karmod Composite & Plastic, we produce high-quality rainwater harvesting tanks with various plastic and polyester options.
• Channels and corrugated water collection systems should be available on buildings, roofs, fields, gardens, etc.
• Various filter components that prevent waste from entering the tank should be placed in channels, in front of tanks, or inside the tanks.
• The tank should have various drainage outlets for the discharge of excess rainwater.
• To reuse the collected rainwater in homes or gardens, a pressurized water outlet should be created in the area where the tank is located.

Is rainwater drinkable?

Whether rainwater is safe to drink is a topic that has always been debated among people. The answer to the question "Can rainwater be consumed?" is sometimes yes, sometimes no. Let's take a closer look at this issue.

Rainwater collects various pollutants from the atmosphere as it falls from the sky to the earth. Rainwater directly collected in a container can be consumed, but to make it safer and to prevent chemical contaminants that may be present, the water should be boiled and then cooled. This way, rainwater can be turned into drinking water without posing any risks.

Rainwater stored through rainwater harvesting in rainwater tanks should not be used as drinking water. The water collected from various areas such as buildings, roofs, gardens, or fields, through rainwater systems, passes through potentially contaminated areas before reaching the rainwater channels. Therefore, this water should be considered as general-purpose water for use in garden irrigation, toilet flushing, laundry, baths, and toilets, among others.

Where is rainwater used?

Rainwater can be used in places where there is a high population and a need for water, such as factories, shopping malls, airports, military zones, stadiums, tourist facilities, private residences, buildings, and for field and garden irrigation, and more.

Advantages of rainwater harvesting?

Rainwater harvesting offers various advantages and benefits. The investment and operating costs of creating rainwater collection systems are low. These systems, whether established individually or by a company, belong to the property owner. Therefore, there are no economic bills to be paid as a result of using the water collected in the tank. The biggest advantage of the collected water is that you can use it without any cost. Rainwater harvesting can help conserve the use of existing water sources. The water scarcity observed in our country, especially towards the end of 2020, shows the extent of water consumption in Turkey. With the increasing use of ready water sources, in the coming years, there is a high probability of facing severe droughts and water shortages. To avoid such problems, it is essential for individuals and companies to turn to rainwater harvesting systems to meet their water needs.