Competency B4: Describe Alternative Green Water Supply Systems
The construction community supports the use of green building technologies in the design and construction of homes and buildings. The practice and process of rainwater harvesting for non-potable reuse is one example of green building technologies that increases the conservation of potable water and benefits both the homeowner and community. This module outlines the practice of collecting, storing, and reusing rainwater from roofs for non-potable purposes
Plumbing harvested rainwater into a home for permitted non-potable uses requires planning and design considerations which meet and/or exceed inspection requirements. The installation of a rainwater harvesting system requires permits and inspections. Due to the complexity of these systems, homeowners are often times required to employ a certified plumber, electrician and/or engineer to design and install a rainwater harvesting system.
Learning Objectives
When you have finished processing the information in this learning guide, you should be able to:
- Describe rainwater collection systems
- Describe grey water reuse systems
- Describe rainwater catchment and conveyance strategies
- Describe rainwater storage strategies
- Describe rainwater quality and treatment procedures
- Describe potable water protection
- Size pressurized systems
- Describe overflow provisions and management
