Rainwater Harvesting Systems

Which of our rain water collection systems and water tank combinations best suits your rain collection needs, reduce water bills and contribute to environmental sustainability.

Why Harvest Rainwater?

Discover the environmental and economic benefits of rainwater harvesting.
As global water resources face increasing pressures from population growth and climate change, rainwater harvesting emerges as a sustainable and practical solution for reducing dependency on traditional water supplies. Here are some key reasons to consider harvesting rainwater:

• Reduces reliance on mains water
  By capturing rainwater, households and businesses can significantly reduce their dependence on mains water supplies. During periods of drought or water restrictions, having a private supply of harvested rainwater can provide a reliable alternative for various uses.
• Lowers water bills
  One of the most immediate economic benefits of rainwater harvesting is the potential for reduced water bills. Using harvested rainwater for non-potable purposes such as flushing toilets, washing clothes and watering gardens can lead to substantial ££ savings. Over time, these savings can offset the initial investment costs associated with installing a rainwater harvesting system. More details below under ‘Potential Savings’ Heading.
• Environmentally friendly
  Rainwater harvesting is an environmentally friendly practice that helps to conserve water resources and reduce the strain on local water infrastructure. By decreasing the demand for mains water, it reduces the energy required for water treatment and distribution, thereby lowering the carbon footprint associated with these processes.
  Harvesting rainwater also reduces runoff, which can help prevent soil erosion and mitigate the risk of flooding.
• Use with a Range of Property Sizes & Types
  Our rain capture systems are fully versatile which means they are suitable for a wide range of properties, both domestic & commercial. Common uses include garden irrigation, car washing and outdoor cleaning. In our most advanced rain collection system, rain water can also be filtered for indoor uses such as toilet flushing and laundry. This maximises its economic and environmental benefits.

Choose the Right System

Compare our systems and find the perfect fit for your property and intended use of your water.

Option 1: Garden Economy Rainwater Harvesting System

A Simplified Solution for Garden Use

• Ideal for garden irrigation and car washing.
• Components:
  • GXRM Pump
  • Rodent Guard
  • Patronen Filter
  • Pump Turret
• Recommended Water Tank Size: 1,000 – 2,000 litres
• View Now

Option 2. Garden Premium Rainwater Harvesting System

Enhanced Efficiency for More Demanding Garden Use

• Additional features like calmed inlet and floating intake for cleaner fresher water
• Components: P Series Pump & Float Switch, Rodent Guard, Patronen Filter, Calmed Inlet, Pump Turret, Pump Lifting Chain, Floating Intake.
• Recommended Tank Size: 2,000 – 3,000 litres.
• View Now

Option 3. Home & Garden Direct Pressure Rainwater Harvesting System

Maximise Your Investment with a Comprehensive Solution for Both Home and Garden

• Suitable for both garden and household applications
• Components: B Series Pump & Float Switch, Rodent Guard, Patronen Filter, Calmed Inlet, Pump Turret, Pump Lifting Chain, Floating Intake, Top Up Controller
• Recommended Tank Size: 3,000 – 5,000 litres
• View Now

Select The Ideal Water Tank for your System

Ensure You Have the Right Capacity to Match Your Property Size
The numbers presented in the above table are based on average UK rainfall so are indicative only. Our free online rainwater harvesting system calculator can provide a more accurate and individual assessment of how much rainfall your roof in your town could collect. Accordingly, the recommended tank size will be more accurate too as its tailored to your roof and your exact UK location:
https://atlantistanks.co.uk/rainwater-harvesting-calculator/

Potential Savings – ££

Ensure You Have the Right Capacity to Match Your Property Size

By investing in the Home & Garden Direct Pressure Rainwater Harvesting System, you could potentially see substantial savings. For example:

• A 3-bedroom semi-detached house with three occupants and an average annual local rainfall of 45,500 litres could reduce its water demand by up to 50%, saving approximately £250-£300 annually on water bills.
• A 5-bedroom detached house with five occupants and an annual rainfall of 68,000 litres could save around £400-£500 per year.

Based on a system costing £3,000 (including VAT) the financial return from these savings would double what you might earn from a bank savings account over the same period. Naturally, we cannot guarantee these returns because there are so many variables such as roof size, rainfall by location, family/garden water consumption and water tank capacity selected.

These variables are tackled within our online Rainwater Harvesting Calculator. This useful, free tool will give you a more accurate assessment of your water storage needs and recommended water tank size.

Easy Installation and Maintenance

Learn how to set up and maintain your system for optimal performance.

Ensuring the efficiency and longevity of your rainwater harvesting system begins with proper installation and regular maintenance. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you achieve both with ease:

Installation Made Simple

We walk you through every step of the installation process, from selecting the right components to the final setup:

Site Assessment:

• Location: Choose a spot that is close to your water collection area, such as downspouts from your roof.
• Foundation: Ensure the ground is level and firm to support the weight of the water tank.

Component Selection:

• Tanks: Select tanks made from durable, food-grade materials to prevent contamination.
• Filters: Use first-flush diverters and leaf screens to keep debris out of your tank.
• Pumps: Choose a pump with the appropriate flow rate and pressure for your intended use, whether for garden irrigation or household supply.

System Setup:

• Gutters and Downspouts: Clean gutters and install leaf screens. Direct downspouts into the tank via a first-flush diverter to discard the initial dirty water.
• Tank Installation: Place the tank on a solid base, such as a concrete slab or compacted gravel.
• Plumbing Connections: Securely connect pipes from the downspouts to the tank. Ensure all connections are watertight.
• Overflow System: Install an overflow pipe to divert excess water away from your foundation and to a suitable drainage area.
  

Regular Maintenance Tips

To keep your system running smoothly, regular maintenance is essential. Here are our top tips:

Routine Inspections:

• Frequency: Inspect the system monthly for any signs of damage or leaks.
• What to Look For: Check for cracks in the tank, loose connections, and signs of wear in the pump and filters.

Cleaning:

• Gutters and Downspouts: Clean every three months, or more frequently if you have overhanging trees.
• Filters and Diverters: Clean and replace filters as needed to prevent clogging. First-flush diverters should be emptied and cleaned regularly.
• Tank: Annually drain the tank and clean the interior to remove sediment build-up.

Water Quality Testing:

• Frequency: Test water quality every six months if used for drinking, and annually for irrigation or other non-potable uses.
• Parameters: Check for contaminants such as bacteria, heavy metals and pH levels to ensure the water is safe for its intended use.

By following these detailed installation and maintenance steps, you can ensure your rainwater harvesting system operates at peak efficiency, providing you with a sustainable water source for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common questions about rainwater harvesting systems.

1. What is a rainwater harvesting system?

A rainwater harvesting system collects and stores rainwater from roofs and other surfaces for later use. This water can be used for various non-potable purposes, such as garden irrigation, toilet flushing and washing clothes.

2. How does a rainwater harvesting system work?

Rainwater harvesting systems typically consist of three main components: the collection area (usually a roof), a filtration system and a storage tank. Rainwater is captured from the roof, filtered to remove debris and then stored in a tank for future use.

3. Is rainwater harvesting legal in the UK?

Yes, rainwater harvesting is not only legal in the UK but is actively encouraged as a sustainable way to reduce mains water usage and manage water resources more efficiently.

4. What are the benefits of installing a rainwater harvesting system?

Benefits include reduced water bills, decreased demand on mains water supply and a more sustainable water management solution. It also helps in reducing the risk of localised flooding by capturing runoff.

5. Can I use harvested rainwater for drinking?

No, harvested rainwater in the UK is generally not suitable for drinking or other potable uses without extensive treatment. It is primarily used for non-potable purposes like garden irrigation, toilet flushing and washing clothes.

6. How much does it cost to install a rainwater harvesting system?

The cost of installing a rainwater harvesting system can vary widely depending on the system’s size and complexity. Basic systems for garden use may start around £500, while more complex systems for domestic use can cost several thousand pounds.

7. Do I need planning permission to install a rainwater harvesting system?

In most cases, planning permission is not required for installing a rainwater harvesting system. However, it’s always best to check with your local planning authority to ensure compliance with any specific regulations.

8. How much maintenance does a rainwater harvesting system require?

Maintenance requirements are generally low but essential to ensure the system operates effectively. Regular checks and cleaning of filters, gutters and storage tanks are necessary. Some components, like pumps, may require occasional servicing.

9. How much water can I collect with a rainwater harvesting system?

The amount of water you can collect depends on several factors, including the roof area, rainfall levels in your region, and the capacity of your storage tank. As a rough guide, a system can collect approximately 0.5 to 0.8 litres of water per square metre of roof area per millimetre of rainfall.

10. Can I retrofit a rainwater harvesting system to an existing property?

Yes, rainwater harvesting systems can be retrofitted to existing properties. The installation process may vary depending on the property layout and the system’s complexity.

11. Are there any grants or incentives for installing rainwater harvesting systems in the UK?

There are no specific national grants for rainwater harvesting systems, but some local authorities may offer incentives or support. Additionally, installing a rainwater harvesting system can lead to savings on water bills, providing a financial incentive.

12. How environmentally friendly is rainwater harvesting?

Rainwater harvesting is an environmentally friendly practice. It reduces the demand on mains water supplies and helps manage stormwater runoff, which can reduce the risk of flooding and erosion.

13. What types of rainwater harvesting systems are available?

There are two main types of rainwater harvesting systems: direct and indirect. Direct systems pump the collected water directly to where it’s needed, while indirect systems store water in a tank and then pump it to where it’s required. Both types can be further categorised into gravity-fed and pumped systems.

14. Can rainwater harvesting systems be used in commercial properties?

Yes, rainwater harvesting systems can be installed in commercial properties. They can provide significant water savings and contribute to sustainable business practices.

Get In Touch

We’re here to guide you when choosing the rainwater collection system and water tank combination that’s right for you and your property. Call us today on 0330 999 1111 or write to us at [email protected].

Further Reading:

• Rainwater Harvesting: Accessible Water All Year Round
• Rainwater Harvesting – Using Rain to Save Money on Water Bills
• Our Changing Climate Means Changing How We Deal with the Rain
• Underground Tanks for Rainwater Storage
• Rainwater Harvesting System Funding Available Now
• Wasting Rainwater – Like Letting Money Run Through Your Hands
• Don’t Get Caught High and Dry this Summer – Harvest Rain Now and Water your Garden all Year
• Join The Rainwater Revolution
• New Water Laws – It’s Time for Solutions
• Scottish Water’s Surface Water Policy Leads the Way to Innovation
• Surface Water Drainage and Climate Change – Facts & How You Can Help
• Your Water is Running Out
• World Water Day 22nd March 2022 | What is World Water Day