Saving rain
Australia is the driest inhabited continent and predictions are that the future is likely to get hotter and drier. So it’s all the more frightening that, per person, we’re the biggest water consumers in the world.
But drinking water is scarce. Of all the water in the world, only 1% is fresh water available for use. So it’s hard to justify that we waste so much of this precious resource on things that don’t really require good drinking water. Garden irrigation and toilet flushing, for example, apparently guzzle up around half the water we consume.
Using rainwater for these things, or recycled greywater from our baths and laundries, would make much more sense.
Rainwater tank can be more effective if you know the right material of it.
Costs and considerations
If you’re interested in installing a rainwater tank, contact your local council, water supplier and health department (if you want to drink the water) first to find out which rules and regulations apply in your local area that could affect your decision.
You may need to submit a development or building application; or there may be restrictions on the tank’s location, colour, height and labelling; or noise regulations for a pump may apply. Your water supplier or a licensed plumber should be able to advise you on plumbing regulations, and your health department on issues about drinking rainwater and preventing mosquitoes breeding.
These initial inquiries should also establish whether you’re entitled to any cash rebates or bill reductions. Rebates can range from $150 to $1500 for the installation of a rainwater tank and depend on the size of the tank and whether it’s connected to a toilet and/or washing machine. Check with your local water or government authority
Outdoor, indoor or drinking?
Using the rainwater you collect for outdoor purposes only is the easiest scenario. Apart from the obligatory checks with your council and water supplier, you probably just need the tank supplier to install it and don’t need a licensed plumber if there’s no connection to the mains water supply.
If you’re allowed to connect your rainwater tank to the mains water supply, you’re likely to need a backflow prevention device so your rainwater won’t contaminate the mains supply if the water pressure changes suddenly and the water tries to flow backwards. Your water supplier may provide this free.
Many water suppliers and health authorities in Australia recommend you don’t drink the water you collect in a rainwater tank if you have access to mains water. But this is probably just to be on the safe side, because no authority can guarantee the quality of the rainwater you collect. You'll also be missing out on the benefits of fluoridated water if it's supplied in your area.
Roofs made of galvanised iron, Colorbond, Zincalume, slate and clay/ceramic or concrete tiles are OK for collection of drinking water. Taking part on how to install
underground water tank or simplify
rainwater metal tank can be accountable on getting potable water form rain.
Water saving tips
Cut down your time in the shower.
Install a water-efficient showerhead, and a flow regulator (restrictor) or aerator to taps to reduce the amount of water that comes out — your council or water supplier may offer rebates.
Install a dual-flush toilet (or put a brick in the cistern) to reduce the amount of water used for flushing.
Look for a water-rating label when buying appliances such as a showerhead, washing machine (a front loader uses less water), dishwasher and toilet. Together these four account for over 80% of indoor residential water use. The more stars on the label, the more water-efficient the appliance is, up to a maximum of five.
Only run full loads in the dishwasher and washing machine (unless it has a half-load program).
Fix all leaking taps.
Plant so-called ‘water-wise’ or native plants that need less water, and use mulch.
If you’re allowed to use an irrigation system in your garden, use a tap timer.
If you’re installing a new irrigation system, choose a drip system with a rain or soil moisture sensor.
For hand-watering, use a trigger nozzle or spray wand.
