A rainwater tank collects rain that falls directly onto your roof. Rainwater tanks can supply about half an average family’s water needs. Using rainwater decreases your need for mains water, saving you money and helping the environment. A rainwater tank cuts down water going into streams and estuaries. Rainwater tanks can also reduce localised flooding, stream erosion and sedimentation of streams and estuaries by slowing the amount of water flowing off your property. [See Rodney District Council's Rainwater Tanks for Non-Drinking Water Supply Pamphlet (PDF 450 KB)]
There are a number of rainwater tank options suited to urban areas, for example: tanks that sit alongside the house, bladder tanks that go under the house, or tanks that can be buried or mounted on the wall or roof.
Rainwater can be used for a number of household needs including toilet flushing and gardening. However, rain water systems need to be designed and monitored properly to avoid any possible health risks from contamination. It is not recommended that rainwater be used for drinking, food preparation or bathing. For more information on setting up a well managed system you can contact the drinking water assessors at your local council.
If rainwater is to be used within the house, there usually needs to be a pump and separate pipes and taps for the tank supply. Your local Council will have certain requirements regarding the connection. The Waitakere City Council website has good general information on rainwater tank requirements.
Some people use rainwater in the garden only, which lowers the installation cost.
The Yellow pages have a list of water tank manufacturers, and products and suppliers are on the ecobob website.
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