rainwater harvesting tank showing an example of non compliant and compliant pipework

Rainwater Harvesting Pipework - Getting it right

Rainwater harvesting is on the up. More developers, specifiers, and end users are choosing to incorporate these valuable water saving systems into the design of their buildings.

Ever-growing estimates show that an additional 5 billion litres of water will be needed every day in England to meet soaring demands. The issue of sewage entering our rivers and seas is also problematic for the built environment sector as water management practices must be considered.

Luckily, rainwater harvesting is a solution to both issues; by capturing and reusing rainwater locally, systems actively contribute to reducing stormwater discharge rates, increasing water efficiency, and boosting sustainability credentials.

However, rainwater harvesting only works when it is designed correctly. Poorly specified and badly installed systems can result in large headaches for facility managers and, more importantly, a lack of water savings – let us help you to avoid this with our handy tips to getting rainwater pipework correct.

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Rainwater Harvesting pipework

Tip 1: Accessibility

Pipework in the below ground tank is used to connect the submersible pumps to the internal storage equipment.

The pipework connecting the submersible pumps should be accessible from finished ground level (within a tolerance of 300mm from finished ground level).

Our engineers often come across pipework which is not accessible from ground level. Our deepest depth to date is 3 metres – any engineers with a 3-metre-long arm, let us know!

This is important because when pipework is not accessible from ground level, it requires two engineers with confined space equipment to safely carry out the service of the rainwater harvesting system. This pushes up the price of maintenance for the end user and creates additional headaches for them.

a rainwater harvesting engineer removing pipework during a service

Tip 2: Fittings

As well as being accessible, the pipework connecting the submersible pumps in the below ground tank should also be easy to remove.

In our experience, compression fittings allow the engineer to easily remove the pipework and associated pump from the below ground tank for servicing. They can also be easily replaced if they become damaged.

rainwater harvesting pipework within a below ground tank

Tip 3: Material

Below ground pipework associated with the rainwater harvesting system should be installed using black and green MDPE only. Black and green is the colour combination which refers to reclaimed, non-potable water under WRAS (Water Supply and Water Fittings Regulations).

The correct colour of pipework should be used to ensure the risk of cross-contamination between the rainwater and mains water supplies is eliminated should future tradespeople work on the system.

Using MDPE pipework instead of copper pipework also reduces the risk of damage when the pumps are removed during a service and maintenance.

Interested in learning more? Our fully accredited CPD sessions give you complete insight into best practice tips and advice. Book your session here.

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Written by Matt
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.

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