For most of us, the rain that falls on our roof runs off into the ground or the sewer system. But if you’re motivated to save a little water and re-distribute it on your lawns or plants — or even use it for laundry, dishes or other interior needs — collecting rainwater from your gutters’ downspouts is a no-brainer.
Water supply from the sky
According to John C. Davis, writing in E – The Environmental Magazine, just about any homeowner can collect rainwater, since the roof and gutters do most of the work. An inch of rain falling on a 2,000-square-foot roof produces some 1,200 gallons of runoff, so you could collect enough to supply all the water needs of a family of four for about two weeks. Of course, most of us would only use rainwater to irrigate our lawn or garden, and there should be plenty to go around for doing that in all but the most drought stricken areas.
Why use rainwater?
- Plants and grass actually do better when fed rainwater instead of tap water, which is usually treated with softeners that actually inhibit plant growth.
- The lack of minerals in rainwater actually makes it more effective than tap water for shampooing or doing dishes.
- Using rainwater for plumbing uses can also extend the life of pipes and water heaters, since the salts added to tap water help corrode the pipes.
- Harvesting rainwater reduces the erosion, flooding, and pollution runoff associated with heavy rainfall.
- Using rainwater lessens the burden on public water supplies.
Due to these benefits, some states subsidize residential rainwater collection systems. One caution, though – If you plan to use rainwater for interior needs, set up a water purification system.
How to get started
Many varieties of rain barrel systems, starting at just $100, are available for home installation. A typical set-up is simply a rain barrel positioned under a gutter’s downspout. According to the EPA, a single 100 gallon rain barrel can save up to 1,300 gallons of utility-provided water during the high demand summer months.
If you are handy, you can make their own water harvesting systems, but buying one pre-made is a lot easier. Most nurseries and garden centers offer a range of choices (as well as advice). Websites such as Aquabarrel, Clean Air Gardening and Rainxchange also make it easy to order a system online.
Related links
Source: EarthTalk®, P.O. Box 5098, Westport, CT 06881; earthtalk@emagazine.com. Read past columns at:www.emagazine.com/earthtalk/archives.php
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