Rainwater tank facts for kids

A water barrel

A rainwater tank is a special container that collects water from your roof when it rains. People sometimes call smaller ones a rain barrel or a water butt. This clever way of collecting water helps save it during the rainy season. You can then use the stored water later, especially in the summer when water might be harder to find.

What is a Rainwater Tank?

A rainwater tank is a large container designed to catch and store rainwater that flows off the roof of a building. It's a simple but effective way to use natural resources. Instead of letting all that rainwater go to waste, it's saved for different uses around your home or garden.

Why Collect Rainwater?

Collecting rainwater has many benefits for you and the environment.

• Saves Water: It reduces how much tap water you need to use. This is great for areas where water is scarce.
• Helps the Planet: Using rainwater means less demand on public water supplies. This can help protect natural water sources like rivers and lakes.
• Saves Money: If you use less tap water, your water bill might be lower.
• Good for Gardens: Rainwater is naturally soft and free of chemicals like chlorine. Plants often love it more than treated tap water.

How Do Rainwater Tanks Work?

The process is quite simple.

• First, a system of gutters and downspouts on your roof collects the rain.
• These pipes then direct the rainwater into the tank.
• Most tanks have a filter to stop leaves and debris from getting in.
• Once the water is in the tank, it stays there until you need it.
• You can then use a tap at the bottom of the tank or a pump to get the water out.

Types of Rainwater Tanks

Rainwater tanks come in many shapes and sizes.

• Some are small barrels that sit next to a house. These are great for watering plants.
• Others are very large, holding thousands of liters of water. These might be used for flushing toilets or even for drinking water if properly treated.
• Tanks can be made from plastic, metal, or concrete. The best type depends on where you live and how much water you need to store.

Rules About Rainwater Tanks

Even though collecting rainwater is helpful, there are sometimes rules about it. In some places, there might be specific laws or guidelines about installing and using rainwater tanks. These rules often make sure the water is collected safely and doesn't cause any problems for the neighborhood. It's always a good idea to check with your local government if you plan to install a large tank.

Images for kids

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  Example of caged IBC totes being used for rainwater harvesting