There are many rainwater harvesting benefits; collecting rainwater for household use can make houses and communities more sustainable and reduce pressure on the municipal water supply. This article explains rainwater harvesting and shares 15 key benefits of this water collection technique.

What is rainwater harvesting?

Rainwater harvesting is simply collecting rainwater for use at home or in industry. People harvest rainwater using anything from a simple container, to a sophisticated installation that channels water into dedicated cisterns.

Rather than being absorbed into the ground or becoming surface run-off, the rainwater is directed using sloped surfaces, channels, and gravity into the storage location. For most properties, the roof of the building provides a large surface area for intercepting and channeling rain.

Collecting rainwater can occur at scale, with massive installations providing a large surface area for collections. Regions with flooded forests, sunken basins, or reservoirs can capture large volumes of water from heavy seasonal rains for community use.

Rainwater harvesting also includes systems to collect dew, fog, and mists using nets and condensing devices. Collected water can be stored for use in tanks, cisterns, pits, boreholes, wells, and reservoirs.

Rainwater harvesting has been a feature of almost every major civilization

Rainwater collection is an ancient practice that goes back millennia. There is archaeological evidence of this practice taking place in the Neolithic Age, and rainwater cisterns have been used by the Ancient Egyptians, Minoans, Babylonians, Greeks, Romans, and Ancient Timbuktu.

How is harvested rainwater used?

Collected rainwater can be used as a water source for any daily activities that require water. Depending on location and the available infrastructure or plumbing, we can use rainwater for:

• Drinking water
• Laundry
• Personal care
• Household cleaning
• Toilet flushing
• Irrigation
• Gardening
• Replenishment of reservoirs and groundwater supplies

15 rainwater harvesting benefits

Rainwater harvesting is a great way of taking advantage of a freely available natural resource. Even the simplest rainwater collection systems can have many benefits for households. Here are 15 need-to-know advantages of collecting rainwater:

1. Rainwater collection is free (wherever it is allowed)

You may have to pay for water that comes in a bottle or out of a tap, but when it comes to rainwater, this essential natural resource is 100% free anywhere on the earth. Some regions do have water rights regulations (explained in the FAQs), but generally, if it drops out of the sky, it’s yours!

2. Rainwater collection is extremely simple 

The principles of collecting rainwater are simple and can be replicated anywhere in the world. A basic rainwater system exploits gravity and the flow of water to channel water that flows off a sloped surface into a storage vessel.

Simple rainwater collection systems worldwide use roofs and other slanted surfaces and even an ‘upturned umbrella’ design to collect rainfall efficiently for later use. A collection system does not have to be sophisticated or expensive to do a great job of harvesting rain:

3. Rainwater harvesting systems can collect an impressive amount of water

The amount of rainwater you can harvest shouldn’t be underestimated. For every inch of rain you receive, you can collect as much as 550 gallons of rainwater for every 1000 square feet of rainwater collection surface area you have available.

If you live in a temperate region with moderate rainfall or have a monsoon or harmattan season the amount of collected rainwater you can be substantial and boosts your household’s water resilience.

4. Save on mains water for domestic use

Collecting rainwater reduces reliance on a mains water supply for meeting all of your household’s water needs. The average American family can use as much as 300 gallons of water daily, with 70% of this water used indoors.

Collected rainwater provides a water source that offsets this volume. Stored rainwater can be immediately used for outdoor uses like watering plants, and car washing and may be plumbed in to supplement the domestic water supply for laundry and flushing the toilet.

5. Rainwater collection can be used anywhere in the world

Precipitation can be harvested for use in the most extreme environments on earth, and for many populations is an important method for accessing water. 

In desert environments, sub-surface desert water harvesters can be used to collect precipitation and surface run-off water while preventing stored water from evaporating. Micro catchment systems like these have been used in semi-arid and arid regions to provide water for wildlife and can even be used to feed long-term underground water storage.

In extremely cold environments, where households do not have a mains water supply, snow is routinely collected in containers and heated for household use.

6. You can save money by harvesting rainwater

Accessing water from a municipal water supply costs money, with many countries instituting water meters for the measurement and billing of water consumption. In the United States, the EPA reports that a family can expect to pay at least $1000 annually to water companies for the water they use.

The monitoring of water consumption has proved to be a great incentive for reducing water use. Rainwater collection can help by instantly providing families with an unmetered water supply that can be used to reduce billed water consumption.  An efficient rainwater harvesting system can save homeowners as much as 40 to 50% of their water bill!

7. Harvesting rainwater saves energy

If rainwater harvesting was routine, there would be a massive decrease in demand for municipal water supplies. This would also lead to a reduction in the energy consumption required to draw, treat and deliver mains water to homes. This more renewable water source also requires zero energy for collection and storage furthering its environmental benefits.

8. Rainwater harvesting can reduce groundwater demand

Many countries around the world are finding that they can ease the demand for precious groundwater supplies by using rainwater collection systems. Iraq is a relatively arid country that has implemented rainwater conservation projects to safeguard its groundwater which forms about 14% of the country’s water supply.

With the support of UN Aid, local environmental scientists are installing rainwater collection systems using ponds and dams to protect the deep aquifers that take a long time to be replenished.

9. Rainwater is a valuable supplemental water supply during drought

If you’ve experienced your water company instituting a hosepipe ban during long hot summers, you will understand the benefit of having an independent supply of water on your property. Water collected during periods of wet weather can prove invaluable in times of drought, where it can be freely used to water a garden.

Many gardeners maintain a rainwater collection system for this reason. The stored water can be used to maintain irrigation systems, and in agricultural settings, ensure that livestock and plants can be sustained in hot, dry periods.

10. Reduces the erosion caused by stormwater run-off

Stormwater is a massive environmental problem causing up to $2.2 billion of damage in urban areas alone. Uncontrolled and undirected surface run-off from storms is a major cause of flooding, property damage, soil and land erosion, and harm to aquatic life.

Proactive integration of rainwater harvesting in the design of buildings could massively impact this global problem. By routinely including robust rainwater collection systems in urban architecture, towns, and cities could prevent the damage associated with stormwater and recover valuable water resources for residents.

11. Rainwater can be used as a source of drinking water

Though rainwater is not potable in its natural state, it can be collected and treated to provide households with drinking water. This is an ideal solution for remote properties that may not have access to a mains water supply and want to maximize their natural water sources. On-site water filtration and treatment systems for rain, well, or spring water add significantly to the cost of a rainwater harvesting system.

12. Supports water self-sufficiency

A reliable clean water supply is essential for consistent off-grid living. Many properties that are not mains connected may have a spring or well available, but they may not be able to fully meet household demand. By adding rainwater harvesting, households can establish a truly independent water supply.

People can do this by maintaining a store of rainwater that can sustain a household until it rains again. A rainwater collection system that can collect enough water to do this requires professional design and installation to ensure that adequate surface area is available to catch rainfall.

13. Rainwater is soft!

A popular benefit of rainwater is that it does not contain the hardness that can affect mains water. Water hardness is because of the presence of magnesium and calcium salts that are present in the groundwater drawn for municipal water supplies. Hard water buildups cause limescale, with damage to appliances like washing machines and dishwashers.

Rainwater has no hardness and is ideal for laundry and other uses where water softness is valuable. In fact, many people in hardwater areas actively collect rainwater because of its softness and use it for car washing, laundry rinses, and watering plants.

14. Rainwater systems can be sized to meet your household needs

Rainwater collection systems are infinitely scalable and can be sufficiently large to meet some or all of a household’s water requirements. In fact, the world’s largest rainwater harvesting system in Karnataka, India collects as much as 4 billion liters of rainwater from a network of collection systems on school rooftops in the region.

15. Installation of a rainwater harvesting system can increase the value of your home!

A high-specification rainwater collection system is a positive modification to your property that could increase its value, especially as the awareness of eco-friendly homes has increased. A prospective buyer would have the benefits of an independent water supply and reduced water bills which are tangible benefits in a similar way to a solar panel or wood-burning stove.

Frequently asked questions about rainwater harvesting

What are some of the disadvantages of rainwater harvesting?

When it comes to harvesting rainwater for use, it’s not all benefits. Here are some of the key disadvantages of collecting rainwater:

• Rainfall can be unreliable, meaning that a home rainwater harvesting system may not be able to provide your household with water consistently.
• The capital costs of installing a modern rainwater collection system can be high.
• Rainwater storage may take up productive space on your property.
• Rainwater harvesting systems require regular maintenance to ensure that they do not become blocked, unsanitary, or infested.
• Roof materials and conditions may be a source of contamination of rainwater run-off.

Is rainwater collection legal in the United States?

In the United States, the collection of rainwater is regulated as a natural resource and in some states, the collection of rainwater on your property is frankly illegal. This is because certain states consider that the collection of rainwater deprives neighbors of having access to the volume of water you collected via groundwater supplies. States that restrict rainwater collection include:

• Utah
• Colorado
• Idaho

All states are beginning to recognize the importance and benefits of rainwater collection, so these prohibitions may be relaxed in the near future.

How much does a home rainwater collection system cost in the US?

The costs of a home rainwater collection system will vary according to the level of sophistication and any post-collection water treatment. Prices can range between $120 for appropriate gutting and a pair of large barrels to over $21,000 for a system with cisterns, filtration and plumbing so that it functions like a well or spring home water supply.

Can you drink rainwater?

According to the Centers for Disease Control, untreated rainwater shouldn’t be consumed. This is because rainwater often contains atmospheric pollutants and contamination that have been washed into the collected water. Microorganisms that are present in untreated rainwater include amoebas, bacteria, and parasites.

Untreated rainwater can be used straight from the barrel for laundry, flushing toilets, and watering plants. Water for drinking, cooking and personal care should be treated before use.

How do you treat collected rainwater for drinking?

Stored rainwater will need to go through several treatment steps to become potable. Water treatment is one of the main costs that can make rainwater harvesting expensive. This is because it is multistage, to ensure that all contaminants are removed from the water. The main stages of rainwater treatment are: 

1. Filtration: Removal of large and solid contaminants by passing the water through mesh and steel filtering layers. Vortex filtration also helps to remove sediments in the rainwater and oxygenate it. 

2. UV treatment: Ultra-violet light is used to kill pathogens and microorganisms that may be present in the water. This stage can only take place once the water has been thoroughly filtered from particulates that could shade microbes from the UV rays.

3. Carbon filtration: Carbon filtration is an additional treatment step that can make the water more palatable and ensure that any remaining substances are adsorbed.

4. Storage of water in a cool dark environment that prevents microbial growth or infestation.

In conclusion

Rainwater harvesting can prove to be an effective method of conserving water. Collecting rainwater can help your household become more self-sufficient and save on mains water costs. In the US, there is increasing recognition of the benefits of rainwater harvesting, meaning that it is legal in most states.

Approximately 35% of the world’s wetlands were lost between 1970 and 2015, mostly due to urban growth and development. For this reason, the process of wetland mitigation is critical to ensure that these areas do not remain desolate after a project takes place. 

But what does wetland mitigation involve, and what are the benefits and downsides of this process? Let’s dive into all you need to know about wetland mitigation. 

What are wetlands?

To understand the concept of wetland mitigation, it’s necessary to first know what spaces are defined as wetlands, and how they are classified. 

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines wetlands as areas where water covers the soil, or is present either at or near the surface of the soil all year or for varying periods during the year, including during the growing season. 

The hydrology, or water saturation, of these areas determines how the soil develops. It also determines the types of plant and animal communities that live in and on the soil.. There are generally two classifications for wetlands recognized by the EPA: 

• Coastal/tidal wetlands: these wetlands are found along the oceans on the coast, and they are linked closely to the U.S.’s estuaries where sea water mixes with fresh water to form an environment of varying salinities.
• Inland/non-tidal wetlands: these wetlands are most often found along rivers and streams, along the margins of lakes and ponds, and in isolated depressions surrounded by dry land.  

Whether tidal or non-tidal, there are four main types of wetlands that you’ve likely heard of, or at least come across before. These types are:

• Marshes: marshes are defined as wetlands frequently or continually inundated with water. 
• Bogs: bogs are characterized by spongy peat deposits, acidic waters, and a floor covered by a thick carpet of moss.
• Fens: fens are peat-forming wetlands that typically receive nutrients from upslope sources through drainage from surrounding mineral soils and groundwater movement. 
• Swamps: a swamp is any wetland dominated by woody plants.

Each type of swamp has its own essential function and values, but each is crucial for surrounding ecosystems to thrive. 

However, like most of our environment, a variety of human activities can easily impact wetlands by altering their topography or hydrology. These activities can lead to the loss of the wetland habitat and negatively affect the surrounding ecosystem of plants and animals. 

What is wetland mitigation? 

Wetlands play a critical role in creating conditions that favor the growth of plants and soils, and support bird and animal species that can thrive off these foods. For this reason, protective measures are taken on a local, state, and federal level to protect these important regions. 

Wetland mitigation refers to these steps that are put into place to restore, create, enhance, or replace the original state of wetlands. 

Wetland mitigation is crucial to ensure that negative impacts resulting from projects near or on wetlands don’t obliterate these ecosystems. Legally, wetlands may be destroyed, but their loss must be compensated for by the restoration, creation, or enhancement of other wetlands, resulting in “no net loss” of wetlands. 

So, what does the process entail? 

The process requires the assessment of the impacts of a project or damage done to wetlands, and actions to be taken to mitigate these impacts either through replacement or restoration.

The ideal mitigation activities for wetland losses might include offsite or onsite enhancement, or in other cases, buying of credits. Individuals usually buy these credits from any permitted wetland mitigation bank.

Restoration of wetland areas is vital to restore and enhance the conditions of the affected ecosystems, whether it be rivers, estuaries, or springs. In various instances, wetlands act as buffers that safeguard wet and dry ecosystems by eliminating pollution before it reaches more fragile regions.

Development and growth in population are some of the main causes of environmental destruction like the damage that occurs in wetlands.

What is wetland mitigation banking?

Mitigation banking refers to the process of restoring, enhancing, or creating new wetlands, and it aims to compensate for the impacts on wetlands in a different location. 

The process is primarily done to compensate for damage caused to wetlands due to developments nearby. However, it can also be undertaken for agricultural impacts to wetlands. Banks provide the option of purchasing credits to offset the unavoidable impacts of a project.

Mitigation banks occur in two categories: they include wetland mitigation banks and conservation mitigation banks.

Wetland mitigation banks provide the option of purchasing credits to offset the unavoidable impacts of a project on aquatic resources. 

Conversely, conservation mitigation banks are built to offset losses that occur on habitats of threatened and endangered species, as well as other special-category species.

The Swampbuster Provisions, or section 404 of the Clean Water Act, protects the wetlands for the numerous benefits these regions offer. This program discourages farmers from altering wetlands by withholding Federal farm program benefits from any person who: 

• Plants an agricultural commodity on a converted wetland that was converted by drainage, dredging, leveling, or any other means. 
• Converts a wetland for the purpose of or to make agricultural commodity production possible.

Together with the Highly Erodible Land Conservation Program (HELC), wetland conservation also aims at reducing soil loss in areas prone to soil erosion. 

These two provisions apply to all wetlands or any land that is highly erodible. They also impact land that is farmed or owned by an individual who voluntarily participates in USDA programs. Farmers must manage highly erodible land according to an approved conservation plan or conservation system which protects the land from water, wind, and gully erosion.

Those seeking to benefit from various USDA programs are required to be compliant with the conservation provisions by filling out a form known as AD-1026. The form helps to ascertain that these individuals will not dredge, drain, or fill wetlands as they look for places to grow their crops.

However, in certain situations where on-site prevention mitigation becomes a challenge, the Farm Bill permits for offsite mitigation, which is done through mitigation banking. 

How does mitigation banking work?

Now that we have a basic understanding of what mitigation banking entails, how does the process really work? 

Producers are allowed to purchase credits from approved wetland mitigation banks, and these credits are meant to pay for the impacts resulting from lost wetlands. 

Wetland mitigation banks are defined as a wetland, stream, or other aquatic resource area that has been restored, established, enhanced, or preserved for the purpose of providing compensation for unavoidable impacts to aquatic resources.

A mitigation bank is established by a government agency, corporation, nonprofit organization, or other entity that undertakes these activities under a formal agreement with a regulatory agency. 

In the establishment of a mitigation bank, landowners retain both the ownership and use of the property. However, a conservation easement is established to protect any degradation activities on the wetlands.

The quantity of the available credits for sale depends on the scope and size of the wetlands’ restoration, enhancement, or creation. The seller and the buyer agree upon the prices of these credits. 

How to develop mitigation banks

Bank sponsors are the ones who establish mitigation banks. But who is a bank sponsor? 

A bank sponsor refers to any person or entity that establishes wetlands to be used in wetland mitigation banking. Bank sponsors cater to both the cost of developing the wetland and its long-term maintenance, which ensures that the wetlands remain functional well into the future.

Usually, mitigation credits are formulated through a functional appraisal procedure that assesses individual wetland functions. There are only a set amount of credits for sale, and ecological assessment techniques are required in order to certify that the credits compensate for the required ecological functions.

Every credit purchase is deducted from the mitigation bank, until there are no credits left. When all credits have been sold, the bank closes.

Mitigation banks are comprised of four separate components, including:

The bank site

The bank site refers to the physical acreage or land which has been established, preserved, restored, or enhanced. 

One prospective source of space to use for wetland mitigation banks is the land from wetland practices registered in USDA’s Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). The National Food Security Act Manual permits the use of CRP land for wetland mitigation after the expiration of the CRP contract.

The bank instrument

The bank instrument is the formal contract between the bank owners and regulatory agencies, which establishes liability, management, monitoring needs, performance standards, and the terms of credit approval by the bank.

The IRT (Interagency Review Team)

The IRT is the team that offers services such as regulatory review, approvals, and the bank’s oversight. 

The service area

The service area refers to a geographic region in which mitigation credits can be used to compensate for impacts on wetlands. However, these impacts must be permitted, and the credits must be purchased at a particular mitigation bank.

Wetland restoration definitions

Aside from coastal and inland wetlands, the process of wetland mitigation involves a few more frequently used definitions. 

Let’s look at the difference between restored, enhanced, and created wetlands. 

Restored wetlands

Restored wetlands refer to when the land is mostly reverted to its former state through an adjustment in hydrology. However, the restoration of wetlands can fall into a few different categories, as defined by the EPA. 

There are three most common types of restoration-related activities: creation, reallocation, and enhancement. They are similar to restoration, but differ in their processes.

Reallocated wetlands

When most, or all, of an existing wetland is converted to a different type of wetland, it has been reallocated. 

One example of this type of restoration would be when an emergent wetland is converted into a pond. In doing so, one type is converted into another type of wetland, fundamentally changing its function.

Enhanced wetlands

Enhancement refers to the modification of one or more structural features of an existing wetland. One example of enhancement is increasing the depth of the water to better support the growth of plants and wildlife. 

Wetland enhancement is always done to improve the space, whether it creates new positive conditions or enhances current aspects of the wetland. 

It’s important to note, however, that a positive change in one wetland function may negatively affect other wetland functions. This is why these alterations can often be more costly to produce and maintain in comparison to restored wetlands.

Created wetlands

Created wetlands are typically developed in areas where there were no wetlands previously. For this reason, a more elaborate architectural design is necessary, as well as fitting of structures and water pumps.

Fundamentally, created wetlands are placed in an area by some form of human activity. They are typically created to support wetland species’ growth by establishing the correct hydrology. 

What is a wetland mitigation credit?

Wetland mitigation credits, also known as stream mitigation credits, are units of trade which aim to compensate for the ecological losses occurring in U.S. waters. Both the EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers control the credits.

These credits require an individual to meet their environmental mitigation permit requirements before they can impact waters or wetlands.

In the past, mitigation banks were built to help compensate for effects caused on various types of wetlands, but they can now be used to cater to particular effects on streams as well. 

In the U.S., the ACE and EPA are the bodies responsible for regulating and approving impacts that occur on aquatic resources. 

On the other hand, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and U.S. National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) are responsible for the control and approval of impacts that occur on habitats of listed species.

These four federal agencies help to determine the ideal form and amount of compensation for ecological losses. 

When developing mitigation banks, all these agencies must be involved and they must review and approve the ecological evaluation techniques. This is done to ascertain that the mitigation credits provided offer the necessary environmental functions to compensate for the impacts.

The pros and cons of wetland mitigation banking

Since the first wetland mitigation project that took place in the 1980s, wetland mitigation banking has gained much popularity. 

However, multiple agencies are now shifting from case-by-case wetland mitigation to relying on mitigation banking. This is the restoration, enhancement, or creation of new wetlands prior to a proposed development that will destroy a wetland.

In this scenario, individuals or companies can buy mitigation credits from mitigation banks, as opposed to working through the lengthy process of permitting and mitigation.

The pros of wetland mitigation banking include:

• The wetlands are usually larger.
• They are developed before the destruction can take place on a wetland, allowing them to serve as natural wetlands sooner.
• Money and time is saved through the consolidation of mitigation efforts for several projects.
• The process helps to establish self-supporting wetlands that are environmentally equivalent to the impacted sites.
• The process can lead to the appreciation of the land, especially if private developers want to use it.

The cons of wetland mitigation banking include:

• The process comprises a higher loss of smaller, more remote wetlands that serve a vital purpose in their ecosystems. 
• Wetland mitigation banking can lead to reduced wetland area overall and in a certain watershed.
• Even with the most articulate planning and consideration, the negative impacts on wetlands and streams are sometimes inevitable. Increased development resulting from rapid urban growth requires more and more natural spaces. 
• Although mitigation banking can be potentially profitable, it comes with numerous costs, especially in the review and approval process.

Mitigation banking and land use

When it comes to the selection of sites for wetland mitigation banks, the only sites that qualify include restored, created, or enhanced wetlands. The preservation of current wetlands does not qualify for this process, because it does not offer additional acres of wetlands.

So, what type of land is the best for wetland mitigation banking? There’s a few. 

1. Generally, previous wetlands that have been restored to their original state offer the best possibility for success in improving wetland values and functions.
2. After the restored wetlands, enhanced wetlands are second best in providing optimal success opportunities. 
3. Lastly is the creation of wetland in an area that has never been home to a wetlands. 

When choosing a site, it’s vital to consider the area’s stability, as the bank sponsor must provide long-term maintenance of the site. This helps to ensure that the new wetland remains functional and thrives. 

Final thoughts on wetland mitigation

The protection of our planet’s ecosystems is undeniably one of the best things we can do for future generations. Wetland mitigation is just one of the various ways we can ensure that our wetlands and the habitats for listed species are protected.

If you wish to learn more about how to develop a wetland mitigation plan, you can visit the Interagency wetland mitigation guidance for more information.

Green Coast is a renewable energy and green living community focused on helping others live a better, more sustainable life.

This water doesn’t have to go down the drains. Greywater systems are an amazing way to conserve water in an energy-efficient manner.

For most people we would recommend the ISpring WGB32B 3-Stage Whole House Water Filtration System. There are plenty of other options though so here are the best greywater systems for your home.

iSpring 3-Stage Whole House Water Filtration System With Sediment and Carbon Block Filters

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Top 5 Greywater Systems Reviewed in 2025

1. Best Overall – ISpring WGB32B 3-Stage Whole House Water Filtration System

The ISpring WGB32B Whole-House-Water Filtration System is one of the best greywater systems for residential properties.

It is installed at the main water supply to treat the water that the entire household uses.

The unit is equipped with gradient three-stage filtration.

In the first stage, the high capacity polypropylene sediment helps filter down to 5 microns. The second and the third phase CTO carbon block filter usually use a high-quality coconut shell to achieve maximum filtration and filter life.

ISpring WGB32B is a system that removes sediment, rust, chlorine, pesticides, industrial solvents, and herbicides, VOCs, among other contaminants. With its 1-inch NPT inlet/ outlet, ISpring WGB32B has a minimum impact on water flow which is up to 15 GPM. The system also requires minimum maintenance.

This video from iSpring does a great job showing how to install it.

It is equipped with big blue 20inches x 4.5inches filter cartridges that reduce minimal pressure and extend filter life.

The water still retains the healthy minerals since it does not reduce the total dissolved solids.

2. Runner Up – Zoeller 105-0001 Laundry Pump Package Including M53 Sump Pump

If you don’t want to go for a complete system like the Ispring, the Zoeller 105–0001 is a good way to remove water for a single application such as laundry, air conditioning condensation or dehumidifre water removal.

Zoeller are known for producing top quality pumps and the Zoeller 105-0001 Laundry Pump Package is no exception. It has an automatic and float operated mechanical switch 115V/1 Ph and all drain pump series.

The unit is easy to assemble, and with no filters there’s nothing to clog so less maintenance for you.

It also features include 1-1/2″ NPT discharge, 9 ft. UL listed 3-wire cord and plug and 1550 RPM, 60 Hz on 50 series models. In addition, it has a non-clogging vortex impeller.

3. Best Budget – BURCAM 300514W 300514WH Automatic Laundry Tub Pump

BURCAM 300514W 300514WH Automatic Laundry Tub Pump is also one of the best greywater systems available today. Designed for a maximum lift of 10 feet, it enables it to handle the grey wastewater from washing machines, bar sinks as well as all other wastewater that does not contain solids.

It’s designed for permanent installation and is installed directly under the tub strainer. It is small in size and takes minimal floor space. It features an automatic switch that starts the motor when the water enters the pump body.

It has no trap or inlet piping, and no vent connection required.

4. Saniflo 008 SANIVITE Gray Heavy Duty Water Pump

Saniflo 008 SANIVITE Gray Heavy Duty Water Pump, White is a system that discharges 18-Gallon per minute and has a vertical pumping capcity of up to 16-Feet and 150-Feet horizontally. Developed by Saniflo, this system is ideal for heavy-duty applications and is fitted with multiple inlets for different installations.

Its size is small enough and can even fit inside a kitchen cabinet. Saniflo also has Saniflo 021 Saniswift Gray Water Pump which is for mid-range applications.

It is also a powerful and economical pump and comes with multiple inlets for different installations.

5. Little Giant 509081 WCR-9SP 115 Volt Wastewater Collection and Removal System

One of the best greywater systems is the Little Giant 509081 WCR-9SP 115 Volt Wastewater collection and removal system. It is ideal for handling both liquid and semi-liquid solid waste material with a spherical diameter of up to 2-inch.

With its larger capacity that reduces the pump cycles, it also helps extend it’s the pump life. Anti-flotation collar is one of its main features.

In addition, it has a 20-inch×30-inch polyethylene basin with ribs which adds its strength and a molded torque stops in the bottom of the bowl which helps locate the pump.

What is a Greywater System?

Greywater recycling system is a technology used to collect the water already used for other activities, clean and plumb it back for reuse.

Greywater sometimes called greywater includes water used for bathing, and washing clothes excluding sewage. Greywater is relatively clean and has not come into contact with human toilet wastes. Since sewage and kitchen water has relatively high organic loading, water from these sources is considered to be blackwater.

Greywater system treats the domestic wastewater and plumbs it back to reuse for other purposes like flushing the toilet, laundry, lawn and in landscape irrigation and more.

The water should be treated to very high standards to make it safe for reuse. You should ensure that it does not get contaminated with anything including cleaning and personal care products.

Greywater system is a system with numerous benefits. Besides reducing the wastewater entering the sewers, greywater can also help you reduce your water usage by around 50% and consequently cut your water bills by almost half.

Isn’t that cool? You may be wondering how greywater systems work, where you can get them from and which ones are the best for homes.

In this article, we will help you answer some of those questions.

Why should you install a greywater system?

Water conservation is very vital. Since 70% of the entire universe is covered with water, you may ask, why should we conserve water? Besides, it’s a natural resource, and it is readily available. Water is renewable, but not all of it is drinkable.

Well, fresh water is a limited resource. Only 2.5 percent of all water is freshwater.

A significant fraction of water in the water bodies is saline water. It thus must go through desalination to be fit for use. Desalination is a process that takes a lot of effort and resources.

Water can be scarce especially during the dry seasons. Thus, with the prevalent drought, water shortage is inevitable and water conservation has become necessary. Installing a greywater system for homes is one of the best ways to conserve water.

There are numerous ways to conserve water. For instance, Earthship homes capture rain and snowmelt, then filter it to make it potable. But here, we are going to focus on how installing the greywater system in homes can help reduce water usage and look at the seven best greywater systems for homes.

In addition, bottled water consumption has grown rapidly developing the following cons of drinking bottled water.

So, how do greywater systems work?

A greywater recycling system runs the greywater through a filtration process. The process helps reduce the existing scum and solid particles and sends it back for reuse.

The system treats or disinfects the water to different levels of purity. The process involves:

• Filtration or removal of solids such as lint and hair.
• Removal of unwanted chemicals including salts and nutrients and pathogens by use of either chemical treatment or micro-organisms.
• May also include disinfection by UV light or chlorination.

That way, it does not pose a threat to the environment. Different greywater systems vary in size and price. The greywater system cost ranges from affordable and straightforward to complicated and expensive mainly used for commercial purposes.

Let’s look at some of the best greywater systems residential purposed.

Greywater System Technologies

Here are the seven best greywater systems for homes:

1. Bucket for your greywater

One of the best greywater systems that you can freely use is a bucket system. It is a system that uses a siphon method to collect and distribute greywater before it goes down the drain into a sewer or septic system. It involves collecting water from the rinse cycle of a washing machine or water from the shower.

On the use of bucketed greywater, there are no restrictions or approvals necessary. It is suitable for use in a washing machine, toilet flushing, and irrigation of lawns, gardens and outdoor pot plants. Manual bucketing involves small volumes of greywater and is thus considered low risk.

It results in minimal soil contamination and runoff to the neighboring properties. Lifting heavy buckets regularly can result in health complications.

2. Greywater Diversion Device or GDD

The Greywater Diversion Device is a process that involves directing greywater from a waste pipe directly into the garden to be used in sub-surface irrigation. The water is used for irrigation only.

A GDD consists neither of storage nor treatment apart from filtering out of larger particles that would lead to system clogging over a period. It is a device that incorporates an overflow system or a valve that helps divert the greywater back into the sewer if this is closed.

3. Gravity Systems

The gravity system is yet another greywater water system for homes. It involves diverting the greywater directly from the feed pipe to a drip line or a sub-surface irrigation system in the garden.

It only works in instances where the inlet is a few meters above the outlet, and may still lack sufficient pressure to push the water through longer lengths of dripline effectively. It may, therefore, result in somewhat patchy watering.

4. Pumped Systems

Pumped systems involve the use of a small pump to push the greywater through the irrigation system. It is a system that typically combines four components including:

1. Some filtration process which removes larger particles in the water as it flows into the system.
2. A small surge tank helps cope with any sudden inflows of greywater for example when draining the washing machine and builds up sufficient volume for the pump to work.
3. A pump which is used for distribution of the greywater directly into a sub-surface irrigation system.

The pumped systems are usually designed in two sizes including for a single fixture or a whole-of-house system. The single fixture is used in laundry and is generally mounted on the ground with a 50mm inlet or on a wall.

A Whole-of-House system, on the other hand, is installed underground with a 100mm pipe that feeds water from all showers, baths, and laundry.

Since greywater can smell, it best left to stay for more than 24 hours, a greywater septic tank used is not a storage tank.

Some of the largest systems only have around 600mm diameter. A greywater system cannot be used to build up a volume of water. Some diversion devices are used to pump out all the water when the surge tank is filled.

Some larger tanks hold the water until the tank is filled and then pump it out all at once. It is an approach that allows the pump to work more effectively and pumps a larger service area.

Thus, the plants grow better when they receive a larger amount of water less often since it boosts root growth.

5. Packaged systems are easy to install and use

A packaged system is one of the best greywater systems for homes. They are easy to install and use though they require electricity to work.  They are self-contained and can be installed either indoors or outdoors.

6. Greywater Treatment System (GTS)

Another greywater system is a GTS which is more complicated than the Diversion System. Besides filtering out the lumpy bits, it improves the quality of greywater from showers, baths, and laundry to a level where it can be used for surface irrigation, in laundry or toilet.

You need a permit before installing the GTS system plus a regular servicing regime.  The water from a GTS that has been disinfected is pumped into a second larger tank used for storage. It can be used for surface irrigation or a sub-surface system.

7. Greywater irrigation systems

You can also use greywater spray irrigation systems. Though not recommended because of increased risk of exposure to people, the risk can be minimized if the greywater is treated to a higher level.

The greywater should be distributed under pressure so that surface spray devices can maximize droplet sizes, plume and throw height. It helps minimize water loss that can occur via evaporation and thus maximize plant use of the greywater.

Conclusion

If you are looking for the best greywater systems for homes to install, then consider getting one from this list. These all can help you preserve water in an energy-efficient manner. We all know how important this is. These systems will help you save money and time.

If you’re looking for a complete household greywater solution we highly recommend the ISpring WGB32B 3-Stage Whole House Water Filtration System.

What do you think of these greywater systems for your home? Please let us know in the comments below. We’d love to hear from you.

What is Greywater: A Complete Overview to Everything You Need to Know

Several sectors around the world are fighting water wastage.  This is a call to everyone as a way to conserve our water resources. Different households are therefore diverting to the use of greywater to irrigate their flowerbeds. But what is greywater? This piece will explore everything you need to know about greywater, including essential tips for greywater management.

Water is life. What it means is, living things cannot survive without water. However, water resources are depleting at an alarming rate.

In the recent past, most Americans have received water restriction orders from water supply companies. This is happening because there is a decrease in the water supply, not just in the country but around the world.

Therefore, we need to devise ways to conserve this scarce and valuable resource. To reduce water wastage, we can divert to greywater techniques. These techniques can help us reduce water consumption and conserve water resources. Want to know more about sustainability? Read our in-depth guide to sustainability.

We can reclaim greywater and use it for irrigation purposes. Greywater can provide year-round water for the irrigation of various vegetables. That will ensure that we have a year-round harvest.

Also, our yards, lawns, and flowerbeds will have that fresh green look throughout the year. The greywater can also be an effective way to provide water for irrigation in arid and semi-arid regions.

Before we explore how it works and setting it up, let’s look at what is greywater

What is Greywater?

Greywater is domestic wastewater which is produced from the recycling of laundry, shower, and hand basin water. When treated, this water can be used to irrigate a garden. Greywater makes 50% to 80% of the wastewater from a household.

Any household wastewater, including water from washing machines, dishwashers, baths, and sinks is greywater provided it doesn’t get into contact with sewer.

Since greywater contains nutrients from soap and other residues, it can be treated and reused to nourish the soil, which in turn produces lush and healthy plants.

Greywater vs. Blackwater

Greywater excludes sewage water which can have a presence of harmful fecal matters. Sewage water contains more organic loading than greywater.

Some studies categorize kitchen wastewater as blackwater. They indicate that kitchen water it contains high-levels of organic loading.

Also, reports reveal that kitchen wastewater includes fats that are likely to damage instead of nourishing plants.

So, where does greywater go?

Greywater Common Uses

These are some of the most common uses for greywater.

• Greywater is making use of the wastewater that would end up in the septic and sewer system and can eventually end up in water bodies. The wastewater can then pollute the water bodies, and therefore, using greywater helps curb this form of pollution.
• Greywater is excellent for watering your garden. Studies prove that this water contains phosphorous and nitrogen nutrients from biological matter, dirt, and grease, which is a good source of soil nourishment. When doing irrigation, make sure that there is no water puddling or pooling on your garden.
• You can use it to water fruit trees, ornamental plants, and the edible plant’s roots. However, it is not safe for use on root vegetables such as radishes, carrots, and potatoes or the plant’s consumable parts.
• The treated water can also be used to flush toilets and in laundry work.
• Use of greywater minimizes freshwater uses. If we save on freshwater, we can cut on the household bills.
• Also, recycling this water benefits the whole community because it helps reduce the demands directed on the public water supply. Greywater use can save up to 70 liters/person/day of potable water in households.

How to Set Up A Greywater System

The complexity and the size of setting up a greywater system depend on the intended use. For example, a single-family unit needs a simple single-family system unless the yard is very far from your home. With a single-family system, you may not require to use a pump. Water will work with gravity unless the yard slopes uphill.

The first step of setting up a greywater system is to divert the water from the washing machine by connecting the washing machine hose with a diverter valve. The valve directs the wastewater into a drum which is outside your home. The tube is linked to the bottom of the drum. You can use the water to water your plants in the garden.

Also, you can set-up a system that diverts water from the shower and other sinks apart from the kitchen sink. You can invest in a greywater system that can connect the wastewater to the outer pipes.

The wastewater will go through a lint and hair filter just before pumping it out using an irrigation pipe to the garden.

Another simple greywater system is a bucket that you can customize to collect and carry wastewater outside manually to water your yard.

If you set-up a greywater system in your household, avoid detergents and soaps that contain boron, synthetic fragrances, artificial dyes, bleach, and preservatives such as polyethylene glycol and phenoxyethanol. Sodium is also said to inhibit the growth of plants, and so, you should make sure that your greywater is free from it.

Greywater Treatment Methods

Treating of greywater depends on the contaminants present in the wastewater. Most of the so-called contaminants in greywater are beneficial nutrients to plants. However, you must adhere to specific guidelines that have been set to ensure that your greywater is wholly free from any harmful substances and contaminants.

It’s recommended that you use wastewater within a single day after you collect it to avoid being charged a stinky water vat. Also, you need to ensure that your greywater is not getting into contact with animals and people.

Here are some of the various ways to treat greywater depending on the intended use of the water.

See Related: Rainwater Harvesting Pros and Cons

Methods of Treating Greywater

1. Direct-Use Systems

Direct-use system is the simplest and the most affordable system. It involves siphoning greywater directly using a drought buster. Alternatively, you can fit a valve to an external waste pipe which will direct the wastewater to a water tank. The water will then be used to irrigate flowerbed or garden when need be.

If you opt for this system, then make sure that you use all the water within a day. If you let it stay for more than a day, the bacteria present in the wastewater may feed on the present organic matter such as hair, skin particles, and detergents and thus multiply quickly.

When the bacteria use up all the oxygen gas available, the water will start to emit a foul smell. Also, it may have some presence of human pathogens from the anaerobic bacteria.

2. Biological Systems For Wastewater Without Food Debris

This biological method may include sand filter and wetland techniques.

When it comes to the sand filter method, the greywater is filtrated to get rid of large particles using a sand filter. After the pretreatment process, the greywater is then filtered using a soil box.

A soil box is a simple four-layer material box. The top layer, which is around 2 feet deep, contains topsoil rich in humus. This top layer sits on top on another layer of fine buildings sand that in turn, sit on a layer of course sand. At the bottom is a layer of pea-shingle which helps achieve perfect drainage.

Initially, the greywater is pumped at the top, and then it travels down to the bottom of the soil box due to gravity. However, most filtration processes occur on the topsoil. At the topsoil level, soil organisms feed and reproduce using the nutrients present in the soil in effect purifying it.

The wetland process, on the other hand, involves treating the wastewater using wetland. The water is usually retained at the top level, thus enabling the aquatic plants like bulrushes and reeds to flourish.

The subsurface wetlands are the best for treating greywater. That is because it reduces the likelihoods of odors escaping. There is also a lower likelihood of human contact, which poses a high potential risk of transmitting diseases and also lowers chances of freezing especially during the winter.

Both aerobic and anaerobic bacteria can treat greywater. Also, plants roots can absorb any organic matters dissolved which can help speed the process up.

3. Biological Systems For Wastewater With Food Debris

If the wastewater has any food debris, then it requires anaerobic treatment using a septic tank. The treated water that comes from the septic tank can then be treated again using the soil box filter or wetlands method, as explained above.

4. Mechanical Filters For Treating Water For Toilet Flushing

You can easily undo the U-bend under any sink to capture and direct wastewater in a bucket. Then, you can pour the water into the toilet cistern. Since this is a tedious and time-consuming technique, you can automate it.

Invest in a greywater pump that can pump the wastewater vertically and can be used when necessary. The wastewater is treated while in a storage tank which is mostly through adding chlorine before it is directed to the toilet cistern or a washing machine.

Chlorine use has a few disadvantages because it can harm or kill your plants if put into excessive use. Also, it can impact the quality of the soil negatively. Disinfect the waste water before you use it for flushing the toilets.

Is Greywater Dangerous?

Some of the world killer illnesses are waterborne. Therefore, it is crucial to treat greywater before use. Do not use any wastewater that has been used to wash raw meat, underwears, and wounds as it can increase the levels of harmful bacteria that can produce a stench after some time.

This type of water is not safe for human consumption. Therefore, never use this water to do dishes, drink or cook even after treatment.

The Cost of A Greywater System

The cost of a greywater system depends on several factors. In California, for example, the cost can range between $3,500 and $6,000, which is just a rough estimation. The installation cost mostly depends on the size of your yard, the complexity of the irrigation system, and the cost of plumbing in your region. Therefore, to get the exact pricing, consult an expert in your area.

Some of the expenses of setting up a greywater system include installation, plumbing, and maintenance costs. You will need to invest in materials such as valves, pipes, among other components used to connect your tank and the sinks. The cost of buying the tank itself is another initial cost that you must consider.

Also, the cost of buying a filter and a pump is another necessary additional expense. Last but not least is the cost of the irrigation tubing expense. The tubing should be able to accommodate your garden or at least the landscaping parts that you desire to spray with water.

How to Use Untreated Greywater

You can siphon the untreated greywater to irrigate the ornamental trees and plants. Use the water quickly or as soon as possible to reduce the bacteria growth.

Untreated water does not include black water because the use of black water can spread waterborne diseases. Direct the black water to a septic tank.

Untreated wastewater should never be used on edible plants or fruits. The water has high levels of harmful pathogens which can pose a health risk if consumed by humans.

Conclusion on What is Greywater

Installing a greywater system in your household helps you play a role in saving the water resources and planet. However, always get a permit before you install greywater system in your home. I believe that now you know what greywater, and everything else you need to know about it is.

How much are you doing about water preservation? Share your methods with us in our comments area.

Is Water Renewable? 7 Reasons Why Water is Renewable

Water is a precious resource. All living organisms need water to survive. Any living thing that depends on oxygen requires water to aid in the respiration process. Water not only acts as a living environment for some organisms but also a solvent, a metabolite, and a temperature buffer.

Research shows that 71% of the entire earth is covered with water. But, a prevalent question remains,” is water renewable?

Why Water is Renewable

To be able to answer that question, it’s critical first to define what a renewable resource means. A renewable resource is considered to be a natural resource that cannot end up in depletion since it can be replenished after usage or consumption.

The replenishing process can occur biologically or naturally and in a finite amount of time. Non-renewable resources, on the other hand, can be depleted and cannot be replenished.

Water is a natural resource which is not only found on the surface of the earth in rivers, oceans, lakes, and streams but also underground. Is water a renewable resource? Yes. Water is a renewable resource.

In this article, we will explain how water is a renewable resource, and give a few reasons or facts about water as a renewable resource.

Renewable Resources Can Also Deplete

First, we need to answer the mystery of why does water being a renewable resource get exhausted. The groundwater depletion may be due to various things including sustained groundwater pumping. It can result in the reduction of water in streams, wells, and lakes. Groundwater retention is vital to ensure that water is not pumped at a faster rate than it is recharged.

It brings us to the next important question, how is water is formed and where does water come from? The universe is largely endowed with this natural resource called water.

Water is a resource that has been there since way back to the origins of the universe. It falls from the sky in the form of rain and then rushes down on our riverbeds and also forms the beautiful water bodies like oceans and lakes. Water is an abundant resource that cannot (always) be replenished.

7 Reasons Why Water is Indeed a Renewable Resource

So, here are the seven reasons to answer the question, ”is water renewable:

1. Water has a rain cycle

Renewable resources are resources that are considered not in danger of being used up and thus water is one of them. One significant reason why water is considered renewable resources is that when it rains, the water bodies get replenished.

Rain is usually in liquid form or droplets which are formed as a result of condensation in the atmospheric water vapors.

Then, the droplets grow heavy and fall under gravity as rain. It helps deposit most of the fresh water on the earth. Rain production is as a result of moisture movements in the three-dimensional zones of temperatures or moisture contrasts which are usually called weather fronts.

Precipitation usually falls from the convective clouds including the cumulonimbus if sufficient moisture goes up in motion. Heavy rainfall mostly occurs in the mountainous areas where there is upslope flow happening within the terrain windward sides.

Water is thus one of the renewable resources that we can have as long as there is sufficient rainfall. But with global warming, climate patterns are continually changing. We should avoid things that are causing the depletion of the ozone layer which eventually leads to global warming and climate change.

Use efforts of decarbonization to reduce your carbon footprint.

2. Conservation

Another method of renewing or replenishing the water resource is through conservation. Conservation efforts can help replenish the water reservoirs when a drought occurs. The water conserved can be utilized to replenish the reservoirs. 97% of all water on the earth is salt water, and only 3% is fresh water which is safe for drinking.

So, is freshwater a renewable resource? Putting in place conservation efforts ranging from the simple to complex systems can help supply fresh water to us especially during the dry seasons. Use these greywater systems in your home to free up drinking water since you won’t use potable water for other purposes.

Conservation Tips

Some of the conservation efforts that can help you free up more drinking water since you’ll be using other water for routine tasks:

• Install a water-efficient shower head (only $19.95 and can save you a lot of money),
• Create a rain garden,
• Install low-flow taps,
• Install a gray water system,
• Ensure you have dual flush or low flow toilet.
• Make sure you have a water-efficient dishwasher model
• Use water for more than one purpose among others.

Below is an example of an outstanding gray water system for your home.

iSpring 3-Stage Whole House Water Filtration System With Sediment and Carbon Block Filters

CHECK LATEST PRICE

Here is how you can conserve natural resources in your home.

3. Evaporation

Since water evaporates, then it is a renewable resource. Evaporation is a process that occurs when liquid water turns into water vapor after it is exposed to high temperatures.

90% of water in rivers, lakes, and oceans go through such transformation, and so water can later be replenished when the vapors condense.

4. Condensation

Condensation is another process that occurs as part of the natural water cycle. After water molecules have gone upward through the evaporation process, they meet cooler air eventually at the higher atmosphere levels. The water vapor is then condensed forming large water droplets that are noticeable as clouds.

It causes temperature changes that then make the water molecules to separate and again form large droplets. Precipitation follows and eventually the rain. It is a water cycle process that makes water resource a renewable resource.

5. Water is recyclable

Water can be reclaimed or recycled. It involves reuse of wastewater which is a process of converting sewage into clean water. Water reclamation is an ideal way to replenish water and reuse it or use it later for other purposes. The water recycled can be used in agricultural fields, garden irrigation which helps replenish both surface and groundwater.

The water recycled can also be treated and be used for drinking, cooking or to meet another purpose in residential centers, businesses complex centers, and in the industry.  Another way to replenish water bodies is to redirect treated used water to refill the freshwater water supplies.

Replenishing water is a practice that will have huge benefits to the ecosystems, improve the stream flow and recharge the aquifers. People are using desalination methods for ocean saltwater to be used for farming and agricultural purposes.

6. Water is sustainable

Another reason why water is considered a renewable resource is that it is sustainable. Reusing water is one of the sustainable water management approaches that can help reduce high dependence on other natural water bodies.

Since it offers an alternative source of water for different human activities, it makes water a renewable resource. Sustainability is a key word because it has a prolonged lifecycle.

7. Rainwater harvesting

Since lowering the water table is the main reason that can cause water depletion. Harvesting rainwater is yet another method of replenishing the groundwater. During the rainy season, we can conserve the rooftop rainwater and use it to recharge the groundwater.

Rainwater harvesting is a method that requires us to connect the outlet pipe from the rooftop with gutters and divert the water to the already existing wells, bore-wells or tube-wells or specially designed wells.

Alternatively, we can make use of rain gardens to hold rainwater that falls from the rooftops. Also, we can inject wells with pressure pumps so that we can actively thrust water into the aquifers and raise the water table.

Conclusion on Why Water is Renewable

I believe that this list has answered the question, is water renewable? However, water is a renewable resource can also get exhausted if we don’t conserve the environment. Consider avoiding bottled water to help the environment with plastic. Here are some of the cons of bottled water.

We, therefore, need to make the conservation efforts to replenish our water sources.

Is water renewable in your opinion? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below. We’d love to hear from you.