Rainwater harvesting systems are simple to install, operate, and maintain. It is convenient in the sense that it provides water at the point of consumption and operating costs are negligible. Since rainwater is collected using existing structures, i.e., the roof, rainwater harvesting has few negative environmental impacts.
Benefits
of Using Rainwater
- It is free; the only cost is for collection and use.
- It lessens demand on the municipal water supply.
- It saves money on utility bills.
- It makes efficient use of a valuable resource.
- It diminishes flooding, erosion, and the flow to stormwater
drains.
- It reduces the contamination of surface water with
sediments, fertilizers and pesticides from rainwater run-off
resulting in cleaner lakes, rivers, oceans and other receivers
of stormwater.
- It can be used to recharge groundwater.
- It is good for irrigation and plants thrive because stored
rainwater is free from pollutants as well as salts, minerals,
and other natural and man-made contaminants.
- It is good for laundry use as rainwater is soft and lowers
the need for detergents.
- It adds life to equipment dependent on water to operate, as
rainwater does not produce corrosion or scale like hard water.
. - It can help achieve LEED Green Building Rating Credit.
LEED Credits Associated with Rainwater Harvesting:
- Water Use Reduction
- Water Efficient Landscaping
- Innovative Wastewater Technology
- Stormwater Design: Quality Control
- Stormwater Design: Quantity Control
- Innovation in Design
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