Rain Water Harvesting
With all the rain over the last few weeks and the talk of water restrictions in the future, let's talk rainwater harvesting.
Rainwater harvesting is the process of collecting and storing rainwater. Water butts are a popular and inexpensive method of rainwater harvesting where rain from your rooftop is redirected through the downpipes and collected in a storage container.
Setting Up a Rain Harvesting System for Your Allotment Here's a step-by-step guide to setting up your rain harvesting system:
Choose a Location: Select a spot near your shed or greenhouse where rainwater runoff is abundant. This could be a corner of your roof or a nearby structure.
Gather Materials: You'll need a water butt (or multiple), guttering, downpipe diverter kit, hose, and fittings. Ensure everything is compatible and of good quality for long-lasting use.
Install Guttering: Attach guttering along the roofline of your shed or greenhouse using brackets. Make sure it has a slight slope towards the downpipe to encourage water flow.
Attach Downpipe Diverter: Install a downpipe diverter kit on your downpipe to redirect rainwater into your water butt. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper installation.
Position Water Butt: Place your water butt underneath the downpipe diverter. Ensure it's stable and elevated, if possible, for easy access to the tap.
Connect Overflow: Attach an overflow hose to your water butt to redirect excess water away from the foundation of your shed or greenhouse.
Test Your System: Wait for the next rain shower and observe how effectively your system collects water. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure optimal performance.
Maintenance: Regularly clean debris from guttering and filters to prevent clogs and ensure efficient water collection. Check for leaks or damage to your system periodically.
By setting up a rain harvesting system, you're not only conserving water but also providing your allotment with a free and natural water source!
