By storing rainwater run-off from your roof, rainwater tanks can
provide a valuable water source for flushing toilets, in washing
machines, watering gardens and washing cars.
Using rainwater appropriately (and in conjunction with water
efficient devices like dual flush toilets, showerheads with at least
a 3 star/AAA rating1, taps, tap aerators, trigger nozzles and tap
timers) can save you money on water bills and help the environment
by:
- conserving our valuable drinking water and reducing the demand on
our water supply (conserving water also reduces the chemical and
energy requirements for treating and transporting water to your home
via the mains supply)
- reducing the amount of stormwater leaving your property by
minimising flooding (using your rainwater for day-to-day purposes
like toilet flushing helps create space in your tank for more water
the next time it rains).
While the NSW Department of Health doesn't advise using rainwater
for drinking when there's an alternative mains water supply
available, we could save millions of litres a year by using
rainwater for toilets, in washing machines, and garden and outdoor
use. For more information on rainwater tanks view our brochures
Buying a rainwater tank and Installing a rainwater tank.
Getting the most out of your rainwater tank (as a cost and
environment investment)
There are key things to remember if you are using your tank for
water conservation and stormwater management.
Tank capacity - the larger the tank, the more rainwater can be
captured for use during dry periods. A minimum tank size of 5,000
litres is desirable.
Water use - its best to use the water in the tank on a regular
(daily) basis so there is always storage capacity available in the
tank when it rains. By using the tank this way you will maximise the
amount of water and money you save and reduce the amount of run-off
from your roof to the stormwater system.
Rainwater from your tank is fine for use with garden irrigation
systems. However, if you plan to connect your rainwater tank to an
irrigation system, you should ensure that you have a filter on your
tank. Algae or debris can sometimes be present in rainwater tanks,
and a filter will stop blockages occurring in your irrigation
sprays.
Connecting your tank to your toilet cistern or your washing machine
is a good way to maximise the use of your captured rainwater because
unlike garden watering, you will even be using your tank water when
it is raining. To supply these appliances from your tank you will
need to maintain a minimum operating water level in the tank when
there is insufficient rainfall. This will require a "top-up"
connection from the Sydney Water supply (just like a toilet cistern)
and therefore some plumbing alterations to your home. You will need
to consult Sydney Water about this.
If you want to contact Sydney Water regarding any plumbing
alterations, the Plumbing Policy, Standards and Regulation area can
provide advice.
Rebates Sydney Water has a Rainwater Tank Rebate Program offering
customers up to $800 to install a rainwater tank. A special
Rainwater Tanks in Schools Rebate Program is also available for
schools. Find out the details of Sydney Water's rebate program for
rainwater tanks and how you can qualify.
Related material
Rainwater Tanks in Schools Program
Sydney Water is also offering a rebate of up to $2,500 to schools
who install a rainwater tank.
1The Australian Government, in collaboration with State and
Territory governments, has introduced a Water Efficiency Labelling
and Standards (WELS) Scheme, which applies national mandatory water
efficiency labelling and minimum performance standards to household
water-using products.
Contact Sydney Water
Customer enquiries: 13 20 92
Service difficulties and emergency service: 13 20 90
Customer Service Centres
Katoomba
103 Katoomba St,
Katoomba 2780
Sydney City
Ground Floor, 115 - 123 Bathurst St,
Sydney 2000
Wollongong
120 Smith St,
Wollongong 2500
Email: Contact Sydney Water
Postal Address
Sydney Water
PO Box 53
Sydney South NSW 1235
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