There are many methods of rainwater harvesting, from simple to complex. The most basic method is to simply collect rainwater in a container, such as a bucket or a barrel. More complex methods may involve diverting rainwater from your roof or gutters into a storage tank or even using specially designed landscaping to collect and store rainwater. No matter what method you choose, rainwater harvesting can be a great way to save water and money.
Methods of Rainwater Harvesting
Two rainwater harvesting methods are given below:
Dry System
The rain gutters are connected to drainpipes for the rainwater to flow into food-grade water drums, rain barrels or tanks. The name “dry” comes from the fact that the pipes directly empty into the storage facility and do not hold any water in the pipes themselves. The barrels are set near the house. The pipes are installed at a height above the tanks for the water to flow by the action of gravity. No pump is needed. These pipes have a lesser chance of mosquito growth as the water doesn’t keep still.
Wet System
The wet system is a bit complicated but more aesthetically pleasing than the dry system. In this method, the complex pipe system is out of sight as the pipes are installed underground connecting different gutters. The pipes are below the level of barrel height. So, after the pipes get filled with water, with a vertical pipe the water is emptied into the tank. This system has a chance of mosquito growth and anaerobic action by bacteria as the water keeps stagnant in the pipes for a longer period. Better to empty the pipes after rain to prevent that. The storage tanks can be placed near or away from the collection area depending on the underground pipe set-up. A wet system is more costly than a dry system due to underground piping
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