The Benefits of Rainwater Harvesting

In a dry continent such as Australia, where water is a precious commodity, there are always new ways of reusing and recycling water being explored.

These days, with the rising costs of mains water supply as well as growing environmental concerns surrounding water usage, individuals and industries alike are looking for ways to effectively and safely reuse water. For instance, by installing waste water treatment systems and water recycling systems.

Cleanawater understands the importance of rainwater harvesting, and we are here to help your business make the most of new, exciting technologies in the field.

When captured and stored correctly, rainwater is an economical and sustainable source of water. Compared to mains water – which is stored in dams and treated with chemicals – rainwater is considered to be a safer, higher quality and more cost-effective alternative.

Studies have shown that rainwater is the ideal supply for meeting Australia’s water requirements. This is especially true in rural Australia, where water services may not be readily available. State and Local Governments are additionally continuing to implement policies that facilitate the use of rainwater tanks in urban areas.

Rainwater Harvesting for Industry

For industries in particular, rainwater harvesting is an ideal solution. Rainwater harvesting systems enable the collection, conservation and reuse of rainwater that falls onto roofs or hard stand areas.

Installing a rainwater harvesting system is a cost-effective and low-maintenance alternative to water recycling on its own. These days, many companies even consider integrating rainwater harvesting systems from the planning stages of their new site, rather than leaving it as an afterthought.

Some of the businesses, industries and applications that commonly use rainwater harvesting systems include:

• Manufacturing processes that require large amounts of water
• The mining industry and other areas where there is dust suppression activity
• Irrigation or site watering
• Car washes
• Unroofed wash down bays and AQIS compliant wash down facilities
• Refuelling areas and parking lots
• Construction sites
• Industrial and commercial estates

Rainwater harvesting systems are also used to top up source water in water recycling systems. By ensuring the rainwater harvesting system integrates with ISO 14000 standards, industries can significantly reduce their environmental footprint.

Using Rainwater Harvesting Systems for Maximum Results

When installing a rainwater harvesting system, businesses must ensure that the system is authority compliant. The stored water must also be treated prior to reuse to ensure safety.

Rainwater harvesting systems can be installed as above- or below-ground tanks to suit the requirements of the site. They can also be automated, portable and skid mounted for ease and efficiency. Oil, grease and solids removal systems can be integrated for use in hard stand areas. The systems are usually adaptable to suit water storage applications from 1,000 to 1,000,000+ litres.

Furthermore, rainwater harvesting systems can be used in conjunction with other water treatment devices – such as oil water separators – to obtain maximum results. First flush diversion systems can also be used to divert the first flow of water to the rainwater storage tank, allowing any built-up dirt on the areas to be removed before the collection of rain.

A professional industrial water treatment and recycling specialist can provide further guidance as to the appliances and systems best suited to an individual’s or industry’s needs. Excellent design features combined with regular maintenance of the system ensure profitability not only for users, but for the environment as well.

For more information on rainwater harvesting, contact Cleanawater. We can help your business remain efficient while ensuring that compliance is maintained.