Water is life, and ensuring its purity is paramount. Rainwater harvesting systems, while beneficial, require meticulous treatment to make the stored water safe, especially for drinking.
Various ways of treatment have been tried and tested for efficacy to ensure our continued health. From the start, even before rainwater reaches the tank, there is what is called prestorage filtration.
This process involves the removal and prevention of large particles and debris from entering the tanks. They include gutter guards and leaf guards placed over the gutters and inlets leading to the tanks.
Screen filters are also used at the entrance/inlet of the tank as the filters are easy to clean without interrupting the supply of water. And best of all, they help keep pests and vermins out of the tank.
Once the rainwater has been collected in the tanks, the aim is to destroy microbes and other particles that can be harmful for humans drinking rain water. To prevent sickness caused from bacteria such as E. Coli, installing some sort of disinfection method prior to rainwater entering your home is advisable.
Used in conjunction with other treatments (see below) involves the use of cartridges to filter the water from and remove microorganisms, sediment, metals, and other organic matter. A 20-30 micron filter cartridge is usually recommended. Any larger sized filters will allow small microorganisms (bacteria) to pass through, so a disinfection method is usually recommended. Checking and changing these filters regularly helps to maintain their effectiveness.
Ideal for the storage of large amounts of water for a longer period. Chlorine is used in either dry, liquid, or gas to kill bacteria and viruses effectively. But using chlorine can be dangerous, so it’s important to follow manufacturer’s guidelines and only use chlorine that is approved for treating drinking water. Seek advice from professionals.
ideal method for disinfecting rainwater when smaller amounts of water are required for a shorter time period.
The water has to be kept clear so that the UV lights can kill harmful bacteria,viruses and microorganisms; sediments floating in the water can stop the UV light’s action. This method allows up to 99.9% of water disinfection without the use of chemicals.
Disinfection occurs by introducing ozone gas in the water through bubbling (like in aquariums). It oxidises large particles in the water into harmless components which get removed via the normal filtration process in the tank.
Ozone has been used for decades in water bottling facilities. It removes bacteria, viruses and other contaminants efficiently and effectively from rainwater tanks without leaving any residue. Only downside: it is not the cheapest option when it comes to rainwater sanitation.
Beyond Reticulation can advise on the proper system that will suit you and your family. We make it a stress-free process. You can trust Beyond to get the job done with professionalism and to the highest standards in the industry.
Beyond can also plan and design the right reticulation system connected to your rainwater harvesting system. We use the best products in the field to give you peace of mind.
A first flush diverter is a device that diverts the first flow of rainwater away from the tank. This first wash of water often carries the most dust, leaves, bird droppings and roof debris. By keeping that initial runoff out of the tank, a first flush diverter can help improve stored rainwater quality.
The right filter depends on how the rainwater will be used. Garden watering or reticulation may only need basic screening and sediment protection, while toilets, laundry and showers may need finer filtration. Drinking water use usually requires a more careful treatment setup, often including fine filtration and UV disinfection.
Rainwater can be used for drinking in some situations, but it needs to be collected, stored and treated properly. If rainwater is intended for drinking, cooking or washing food, the system should be designed carefully with suitable filtration, disinfection and professional plumbing advice. Rainwater is often used for drinking in rural areas, but urban systems are more commonly used for non-potable uses such as garden watering, toilets and laundry.
UV treatment uses ultraviolet light to help disinfect rainwater by targeting bacteria and other microorganisms. It is commonly used as a final treatment stage after sediment and cartridge filtration. UV treatment works best when the water is already clear, because particles and sediment can reduce the effectiveness of the UV light.
Yes. Filtration can help reduce sediment, grit and debris entering the pump, valves, pipework and plumbing fixtures. This can improve system reliability and reduce wear over time. For rainwater systems connected to reticulation, cleaner water can also help protect sprinklers, drip irrigation lines and filters from blockages.
Rainwater filters should be checked regularly, especially after heavy rain, storms or long dry periods. Leaf screens, gutters, first flush diverters and tank strainers may need cleaning more often, while cartridge filters should be replaced according to use, water quality and manufacturer guidance. If water pressure drops or the pump works harder than usual, blocked filters may be one of the causes.
Keeping a rainwater tank cleaner starts before the water reaches the tank. Regularly clear gutters, trim overhanging branches, clean leaf guards, check downpipes, maintain the first flush diverter and inspect tank inlet screens. Tank de-sludging may also be needed every few years to remove sediment from the bottom of the tank.
Get practical advice on the right rainwater treatment system for your home or garden