Self-sufficient living requires a wide set of knowledge and skills. You need to know how to produce your own food, harvest renewable energy, and the like. Learning everything you need will take time.

You don’t have to pressure yourself to have a self-sufficient lifestyle in an instant. Living in one of the driest continents in the world, you can start with harvesting rainwater.

The Basics of Active Rainwater Harvesting

Rainwater can be collected actively or passively. Passive systems guide water to a containing area that allows the water to be naturally absorbed by the land.

Active systems employ mechanisms to collect, clean, store and distribute water. These are the systems most commonly seen in residential and commercial properties in Australia.

The components of active catchment systems include:

· a collection surface (usually the roof)

· a conveyance system (includes gutters and downspouts)

· diverters and filters

· storage container

· a distribution system

Some systems, especially systems used for potable water, have water treatment components. This may include carbon filtration or drip irrigation.

How Do I Start?

For an active system, you can start by surveying your property. Check if your roof, gutter and drain need repair or maintenance. Estimate the size of the tank you need by determining the size of your roof, the amount of rainfall in your area, and estimating how much water you use. Once you’ve determined this information, you can use the tank size calculators online and average the result.

Look for the area where to best put your storage tank. Check with your local council on what are the regulations for instaling rainwater tanks and if permits are needed. 

It may take years to be truly self-sufficient, but at least you can already enjoy your own source of fresh, clean water with the added benefit of helping the environment.

At Rapid Plas, we provide reliable rainwater collection systems that can help you start your journey to a self-sufficient life. Contact us today to learn more about our rainwater harvesting solutions.