Looking to cut down your water bills while giving a little back to the environment? Rainwater collecting could be the answer you're seeking. From regulations to common methods of collection, here's everything you need to know.
Rainwater Collector: The Basics
Legal rules mandate the positioning of a rainwater collector either off the ground or underground, nearby a roof or gutter. This ensures the most efficient collection and avoids potential legal issues. The most commonplace technique for collecting rainwater incorporates a rainwater collector connected to your gutter's downspout.
Regulatory Restrictions
On the other hand, the government of France sets a restriction on installing a tap that disperses rainwater in a room where drinking water taps are present. This rule is in place to avoid any potential contamination.
Rainwater Collection for Balconies
For those with a balcony, a different approach is needed. A smaller, lighter collector made from polyethylene or polypropylene is often the best bet. Opting for a rectangular collector can make the most of the limited space provided by a balcony. To save additional space, it's recommended to position the collector against a wall, at a distance from the door.
DIY Rainwater Collector
For the more hands-on individuals, crafting a DIY rainwater collector is an alternative. All you'll need is a 200-liter barrel, a fine grid/gutter filter, a threaded tap, silicone seal, Teflon, and a gutter connection kit. But remember, you must empty your DIY collector before the winter arrives to prevent the barrel from cracking due to freezing temperatures.
Solutions for Balconies without Gutters
Do not worry if your balcony does not have a gutter, there are other options. You can make use of buckets or large pots without holes that serve as miniature rainwater collectors. Alternatively, you can also set up a series of containers or watering cans in a top to bottom arrangement leading into a larger container. These methods allow you to collect rainwater efficiently even without a traditional gutter setup.