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Rainwater Capture Devices: Features, Options and Ideas for Every Space and Budget

Published on 21 January

In this article we are going to talk about why rainwater capture is important and highlight the vast array of devices available for every household.

  • Rainwater
  • Stormwater
  • Wastewater

Why Rainwater Capture Matters

A triangular flood warning sign next to a puddle with a car driving through

Rainwater capture has lots of benefits for the environment, our ecosystems, communities and it helps to combat flood risk. Here are just a few reasons why it matters:

Capturing rainwater slows the flow into our drainage systems, helping to reduce pressure on wastewater treatment facilities and to reduce stormwater overflow discharge.
Sustainable rainwater capture systems such as planters, green roofs and rain gardens can provide a habitat and refuge for urban wildlife.

Managing rainwater effectively protects properties from damage caused by water infiltration, foundation weakening, and mould growth, particularly in flood-prone areas. 

By harvesting rainwater for non-potable uses like irrigation, businesses and homeowners can reduce their dependence on plumbed water, thus reducing their bills if on a water metre.
Capturing rainwater reduces the amount of polluted runoff entering our water systems, which helps improve overall water quality. By intercepting rainwater before it flows across roads, roofs, and other surfaces, rainwater capture systems helps to reduce harmful contaminants like oil, heavy metals, and debris from reaching natural water bodies.

Disclaimer:

A disclaimer stamp

The products mentioned on this page are provided as examples to illustrate the different types of rainwater capture systems. They are not intended as specific product recommendations or endorsements. We encourage customers to assess their own needs  purchasing any rainwater harvesting equipment.

Rainwater Capture Devices for Small Spaces

Some unscrewing the clasp around a downpipe fitted against a brick wall

Fits tight corners or along walls. Storage capacity of these are limited however they take up little to no space in your garden.

Freeflush Wall Mounted Water Butt

Rainwater Capture Devices for Larger Spaces

Two large light green rain tanks connected and next to a roof with solar panels on them

Large-capacity barrels designed for significant rainwater collection. These high capacity devices are perfect for large gardens or properties and are simple to connect to multiple downpipes. They do requires ample space for placement and aren't the most attractive option.

The Tank Shop Enduramaxx

High-Capacity Devices for Gardening Enthusiasts

Three large blue barrels next to each other and linked

Increases capacity by linking several separate barrels together. These can be purchased and connected together for this purpose or you can modify standard water butts to do this. This is perfect for storing a large amount of water and can be added to over time, however, they can take up significant space.

Freeflush 1 Tier Rainwater Terrace

Techy and Smart Rainwater Collection Solutions

A smart meter

These tracks water levels and usage through sensors which are often located on the lid of the water butt. These are usually installed by water companies or Lead Local Flood Authorities (LLFA's) to help with water management in a targeted areas. This helps them with rainfall data and informs decision making.

Cost-Effective Rainwater Collection Solutions

tools and wood on a table in a workshed

Affordable and customisable for beginners. You can even add small pipe halfway up that will slowly 'leak' over time, making sure there's always capacity should it rain.

Southern Water Guide to making your own slow drain water butt

Conclusion

There is a vast array of products to choose from when it comes to rainwater capture devices. These vary in size, price, features and aesthetic. Therefore it would be prudent to choose the right rainwater capture device based on your needs and preferences. It would be wasteful to buy an expensive system should your needs be simple. Hopefully this guide will give you the information that will help you make that decision.

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The Innovation Centre
Rennes Drive,
Exeter,
England,
EX4 4RN

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