6 Expert Tips for Effectively Maintaining a Rainwater Harvesting System

Have you recently installed a rainwater harvesting system? Or are you researching the required maintenance procedures as part of your initial planning process? If so, this post is a must-read.

Installing your rainwater harvesting system is as simple as enlisting the plumber Brisbane locals use for all plumbing matters. Once that’s done, you will need to schedule regular maintenance to ensure that the system works efficiently and doesn’t damage the surrounding property. Fortunately, this is easier than you think.

Routine Maintenance is Key for a Durable System

Collecting rainwater from your roof is an eco-friendly way to save both water and costs. Depending on the size of your property and specific needs, you may choose to install more than one tank. To ensure that your rainwater harvesting system stays maintained, follow the simple recommendations listed below.

1.      Always Check the Roof

Typically, a rainwater harvesting system is made up of water tanks, gutters, and smaller plumbing pipes. Rainwater falls onto the roof and into the existing or specially installed gutters. These lead the water into tanks which can then be poured out via pipes and taps as you need it.

With this in mind, you should always start your water harvesting maintenance with a check of the roof. Here you want to check for accumulation of organic debris such as leaves, twigs, and sand that may have been blown up there by the wind. Clean the roof to prevent debris from flowing into the gutters.

2.      Gutters Must be Cleaned

Clear gutters are essential to ensuring that the water can flow safely and quickly into the tanks. Excess leaves and other materials can cause the gutters to get blocked or may flow into your tanks.

Avoid this by regularly clearing out the gutters. Speak to your plumber about installing mesh filters and gutter guards to reduce the amount of debris getting into the gutters. This is also a good time to check if your system is effective for your needs and rainfall. It may be necessary to consider adding more storage tanks in high-rainfall areas.

3.      Inspect the Filters

All entry points on the tank present a potential way for debris to get into the tank’s pipes and clog up the whole system. This can cause your tank to overflow, which can cause water to pool around the tank.

If the tanks are standing against your home, an overflow of water can cause damage to the foundation. It’s also wasting water, which defies the reason for the system in the first place. Clear out inlets, filters, and guards on any entry and exit points to the tank.

4.      Check for Gaps in the Tanks

The integrity of your tank depends on the materials used, the age of the tank and the quality of the initial construction. This means that you will have to check the structural integrity of the tanks and all adjoining components.

Poly tanks sometimes feature internal poles which pierce through the tank roof. This can cause the tank to become weak. Check the roof for holes and gaps and should be repaired or filled up. Avoid installing tanks where unnecessary holes are added and use valves and seals to ensure that necessary holes are secured correctly.

5.      Check for Insects

You may only be planning to use the water for outdoor tasks such as watering the garden and washing your car. This may leave you thinking that monitoring the quality of the water in the tank isn’t all that essential. However, algae growth in the tank can pose a health risk so it’s essential to check for this.

Avoid this by regularly disinfecting your tank and also checking for open gaps or cracks where light and air may be getting into the tank. Closing these will reduce the risk of algae and mould developing on the inside of your tank and gutter pipes. You should also check for insect larvae such as mosquitoes as these can harm your herbs and veggies when you pour them onto your crops or gardens.

6.      Check all the Pipework

There may be a combination of draining and self-draining pipes attached to your water tanks. Sections of the plumbing system that aren’t self-draining, should be drained. Where possible, flush out your plumbing fixtures and pipes to ensure there are no clogs or leaks.

Speak to your plumber for the best chemicals to use to sanitise these pipes, especially if you’re going to use the water in your home. It’s also essential to check taps, valves, seals, and other loose components for damages or leaks. These will need to be repaired or replaced as soon as possible to avoid water pooling against your home.

Final Thoughts

Installing a rainwater harvesting system is an effective way to conserve water and reduce your property’s water bill. However, the tanks, gutters, and pipes will require routine maintenance to ensure that the system works as effectively and safely as you expect. A well-maintained system will allow you to collect and utilise rainwater for years to come.