Rainfall is an excellent alternative to freshwater. Not only does rainfall replenish underground aquifers, but it also eliminates overreliance on municipal water. It is the reason Australian households are increasingly installing rainwater tanks on their properties for easy harvesting and storage of rainwater. That said, rainwater tank installation is not a straightforward process. You must abide by specific regulations to install a rainwater tank on your property. This article highlights the fundamental guidelines.
Leak Proof and Sanitary — Rainwater tanks are a crucial resource in urban Australia, where water rationing has become common. By collecting and storing rainwater in tanks, households can become self-sufficient. Therefore, homes that want to install a rainwater tank must make sure the setup is leak-proof and sanitary. The rule applies regardless of whether you plan to install a concrete, steel, or plastic tank. The main benefit of a leak-proof tank is that it prevents water loss. Besides, leak-proof containers eliminate the risk of flooding and damage to the immediate property. Harvested rainwater should be safe for consumption, but it is only possible if a tank is made using a safe material. For instance, poly water tanks must be made from food-grade plastic to be considered safe.
Compliant with Plumbing and Drainage Standards — While a standalone tank with an open-top can catch some rainwater, it can collect more water when connected to a gutter system. Therefore, it is a requirement to hire a professional plumber to install a gutter system. Ideally, a gutter system should comply with the Australian Plumbing and Drainage standards (AS/NZS 3500). The requirements ensure that a rainwater tank's overflow leads to stormwater drainage. Failure to abide by the plumbing and drainage standards could lead to soil erosion due to a poorly installed overflow system. The guideline also ensures that a rainwater system prevents possible backflow to the main supply pipe.
Connected to all Toilets — You might want to use harvested rainwater to wash your car or water your garden or lawn. However, it is a national requirement that households with rainwater tanks must connect the system to all toilets in the house to guarantee sanitary flushing. The reason is that bacteria can enter a home via contaminated water that remains stagnant for a long time, particularly in areas with high temperatures. Notably, connecting your tank to all toilets prevents rainwater stagnation, preventing bacteria from breeding. Consequently, you can rest assured that the rainwater you use to flush your toilets is free of pathogens.
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