Rainwater planning

Rainwater filters and maintenance

A check plan for baskets, screens, sediment, pump, tank and overflow without claiming potable water.

A check plan for baskets, screens, sediment, pump, tank and overflow without claiming potable water.

The key principle

Do not size a tank from annual rainfall alone. The same yearly yield can perform very differently when summer is dry, demand is high and storage is limited.

Worked example

A 100 m² roof, 50 mm rainfall, 0.9 runoff and 0.9 efficiency yield about 4,050 litres in a month: 100 × 50 × 0.9 × 0.9.

What to check before a decision

  • gutter levels and safe overflow
  • actual horizontal roof projection
  • local rainfall and dry years, not just the average
  • water quality required by the intended use
  • access for cleaning, filters and pump

Limitations

The calculator does not design structures, storm drainage, non-potable plumbing or infiltration. Values must be confirmed on site.