Rainwater harvesting
Rainwater harvesting refers to the simple technology or process of conserving rainwater. It involves collecting, storing, and transporting rainwater from roofs, parks, roads, and open spaces for later use.
Rainwater harvesting is one the oldest and easiest methods of self-supply water to households. It has been used for thousands of years in different countries. Rainwater harvesting is one of the most influential and respected methods to help the environment.
Conservation of water. The scarcity of high-quality water is a significant concern today. Rainwater can be of high and pure quality and can be used to water crops, clean, wash, cook, and for other livestock needs.
Disadvantages of rainwater harvesting
Along with many advantages, there are a lot of disadvantages regarding rainwater harvesting that must address. Following are some disadvantages of rainwater harvesting.
UNPREDICTABLE RAINFALL
Every place gets a different amount of rain. It can also be challenging to predict the amount of rainfall. Rainwater is often unpredictable. A rainwater harvesting system is not advised to be installed in areas with less water but is a good option in areas with a lot of rainfall.
INITIAL HIGH COST
It’s impossible to predict the initial cost of a rainwater harvesting system because it depends on many factors. The system’s technology level and size may also affect the initial installation cost.
REGULAR MAINTENANCE
Rainwater harvesting systems are susceptible to insects and microorganisms like rodents and mosquitoes, algal growth, insects, and even lizards that can contaminate rainwater harvesting. If they aren’t properly maintained, they can be breeding grounds for many animals and lead to severe health problem
STORAGE LIMITS
Rainwater is sometimes not able to be collected due to limited storage.
CERTAIN ROOF TYPES MAY SEEP CHEMICALS OR ANIMAL DROPPINGS
Some roofs can seep chemicals, dirt, and insects that could cause contamination of rainwater; due to this, it will reduce its capability of usage. And this contaminated water could cause damage to the plants and animals that utilize it.
REQUIRES SOME TECHNICAL SKILL TO INSTALL THE SYSTEM
Rainwater collection is easy, but we must address some details. Although it is easy to set up a rain barrel at your home, if you wish to increase system efficiency and effectiveness, you should consider installing collection pipes from multiple downspouts and larger storage tanks. Here is where technical expertise and experience come in handy.
SYSTEM MAINTENANCE MUST BE PERFORMED BY YOU
Rainwater Collecting systems need to be maintained after installation. These systems will not require any maintenance but need your attention. As with all things, rainwater harvesting systems can become disorganized and stop functioning if left unchecked. The designs must be checked regularly to keep them clean and to operate smoothly.
RAINWATER STORAGE TANKS CAN TAKE UP VALUABLE SPACE AROUND the HOUSE
Rainwater storage tanks are usually huge. So, larger rainwater storage tanks can start to take up a lot of space in a house or premises. If we keep this in mind when designing our rainwater harvesting system, we can certainly take this into account, and it may not pose any issue for us.
STORAGE ISSUE
When it rains continuously for long periods, especially during monsoons, the water in the harvesting tank can overflow. It causes a lot to be wasted and goes down the drains and sewage pipes.
The tanks may not be complete because plants only require some water in the harvesting system. Rainwater will not be used in the future because there is no way to store any extra moisture after filling the catchment.
IMPROPER INSTALLATION
Rainwater harvesting, if not done correctly, can cause groundwater depletion. Sometimes, the water table may rise too close to the surface. This water can cause drainage problems.
QUALITY PROBLEMS
Rainwater quality is only sometimes sufficient to be safe for drinking without treatment. Rainwater can mix with insoluble and soluble materials on the surfaces it lands. So, as it flows through the atmosphere, it collects pollutants and dust. Rainwater can contain plants, fungi, other organic substances, and inorganic substances like dissolved minerals, metals, or chemicals. Rainwater collected from clean surface runoffs does not require a high purity level. However, it is safe to drink and cook. We can improve the rainwater storage tank by separating the first flush from the roof, gutters, and other collecting surfaces.
