Rainwater harvesting is becoming more popular as people look for ways to use natural resources and help the environment. It’s a sustainable practice that collects rainwater from rooftops and stores it for various uses. However, while rainwater may seem like a natural, pure resource, it should not be consumed without proper treatment. Here's why:
1. Exposure to pollutants
As rain falls through the atmosphere, it can pick up a variety of pollutants that compromise its safety including:
- Industrial pollutants like sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, especially in urban areas with heavy traffic and industrial activity
- Particulate matter, which includes dust and other harmful substances suspended in the air.
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and heavy metals, which rainwater can absorb from nearby industrial or agricultural areas.
These pollutants can alter the natural purity of the rainwater, making it unsafe to drink.
2. Contamination from roofs and gutters
Once rainwater reaches your roof, it can pick up additional contaminants. Bird droppings, debris, and dirt can contaminate the water as it is collected and stored in tanks. Moreover, microorganisms like bacteria and viruses from animals can be present, making it dangerous to consume.
3. Biological Risks
In addition to chemicals and pollutants, rainwater is also at risk of contamination from bacteria, viruses, and parasites. These harmful microorganisms can cause serious health issues such as stomach bugs, food poisoning, and even more severe illnesses.
4. Lack of filtration and treatment
Rainwater is generally not treated unless you invest in a proper filtration system. Without adequate filtration, the water can contain harmful pathogens that municipal water treatment systems typically remove. Simply collecting the rainwater is not enough to ensure it’s safe to drink.
What can you do with rainwater harvesting?
Although rainwater is not safe to drink without proper treatment, it still has many practical uses that can help you save money and reduce your environmental impact.
- Garden irrigation: Rainwater is free of chemicals like chlorine and lime, making it better for plants.
- Washing clothes: Soft rainwater can enhance detergent efficiency, reduce chemical runoff, and prevent limescale buildup.
- Flushing toilets: Rainwater can replace mains water for toilet flushing, helping to preserve your fresh water supply.
By using harvested rainwater for these non-potable purposes, you can make a positive impact on the environment and preserve our supply of fresh drinking water. If you're looking to use rainwater for drinking, it is essential to have a high-quality filtration and treatment system in place to make it safe.
For now, it’s best to use harvested rainwater for tasks like garden irrigation, washing clothes, or flushing toilets.
Contact us today, and our team will help you choose the right sustainable water management system for your project!