What pre-planned maintenance is required for commercial rainwater harvesting systems?
06/04/2024
Just like any mechanical or electrical system, commercial rainwater harvesting systems require pre-planned maintenance. Investing in regular maintenance on a rainwater harvesting system is an investment in your surrounding environment! In a world where water is becoming more scarce every year, your rainwater harvesting system will continue to maximise water and carbon savings which decreases pressure on local water infrastructure.
If you are a facilities manager and have a rainwater harvesting system on your site, or are simply interested in water reuse, then we have got you covered! We will be using this week’s blog as a guide to rainwater harvesting system maintenance.
Over the past 20 years, we have developed knowledge of all types of rainwater harvesting systems, not just our own! We know what works, and we know what does not work and we will be sharing this with you today.
What are the maintenance requirements of a Rainwater Harvesting System?
- Bi-annual servicing – A qualified Stormsaver engineer should attend the system every 6 months. The engineer will need to clean filtration devices to prevent discoloured water and blockages, check electrical components to ensure safety, ensure the pumps are working correctly and clean water metres. Learn more about rainwater harvesting system servicing here.
- Tank cleaning – A clean of every tank in the system should be conducted every 24 months. Sediment can build up on the base of the tank which, if allowed to build up, can result in poor water quality. Our tank cleaning team will also remove any avian debris.
- Legionella testing – whilst this is site specific, Stormsaver can offer instant legionella testing as part of our servicing package. Stormsaver systems are designed to dramatically reduce legionella risk by removing any dead ends within the system. Our valves are designed to automatically open every 24 hours to ensure a constant flow of water.
- Occasional Roof cleaning – roof cleaning can remove any debris build up on the surface of the roof area eliminating which can increase water quality.
Why do rainwater harvesting systems need maintenance?
- A typical Rainwater Harvesting System is designed to last 25 years. Regular maintenance prolongs the lifetime and reduces wastage.
- Maximise water and carbon savings. Water is becoming an increasingly scarce resource. In fact, in the UK, areas of the Southeast are already classed as ‘seriously water stressed’ by the Environment Agency.
- Prevent unexpected breakdowns. Whilst most rainwater harvesting systems are designed to provide a supply in the event of failure, some buildings have been specified with pressurised systems which are not able to do provide a constant supply in the event of a pump failure as they are reliant on a pressurised water supply from pumps. If this is the case, your facility could be left with no flushing toilets.
- Show your organisation’s commitment to sustainability by investing in sustainable water supplies.
Want to learn more?
Our friendly maintenance team are on hand to cater for all you rainwater harvesting system maintenance needs. Even if your system has not been supplied by Stormsaver, we can maintain it! Just get in touch here.
Written by Matt
Water Reuse Specialist
Water Reuse Specialist
My role as a Water Reuse Specialist means I get to keep up to date with all things water conservation. My favourite water saving tip is to turn taps off when brushing your teeth! I think rainwater harvesting and the water reuse industry is exciting, and I love sharing updates with our customers. View Matt’s Stormsaver profile here.
