Rain Harvesting
How clean is the rainwater you harvest when it enters your tanks?
Rainwater harvesting is the source of drinking water for a large part of the rural population. New Zealand generally has some of the most pollution free and cleanest water falling from the skies, and in most places there is plenty of it.
But ... as soon as it hits your roof and then the gutters, the water tends to pick up contaminants and dump them in your tank. Contaminants include rotting leaves, pine pollen (which leaves a nasty odour), rust from old roof iron and deposits left by possums and birds. If you are on tank water we are always going to recommend water filtration but these filters will last better if as much of the contaminating material as possible is prevented from reaching the water tank in the first place.
What rainwater harvesting options are there?
There are lots of different bits of equipment that can be used to help harvest the rain water and keep it clean on its way to the tank. The question as to which bits will work best for you will depend on a number of factors including the number of downpipes there are, the height of the top of the water tank in relation to the gutters, whether there is a suitable place to divert the first flush of water and you might even need to consider the aesthetics of the system.
To see all the options, view the rainwater harvesting brochure.
Yes - it can be quite difficult to work out what you need especially if you have multiple downpipes so give us a call and we can call on you to give you a free survey and quotation.
Cleaning gutters and painting your roof
If you are cleaning your gutters or painting your roof make sure you disconnect the pipe feeding the tank first otherwise you will just wash all the rubbish straight into the tank. When painting the roof, you will need to follow the instructions on the can - which usually mean leaving the tank unattached for 3 to 6 weeks and making sure that there have been a number of decent downpours.
Tank Cleaning
Over time, leaf litter and other debris collects in the bottom of water tanks and can allow dangerous bacteria and pathogens to multiply. It can also cause the water to taste bad. Filters can of course eliminate these issues but the they are best eliminated at source by having your tank cleaned. Call us to organise for your tank to be cleaned today on 0800 787 392 or email us using the form to your right.