Guide to water harvesting in residential homes in Kenya

Water harvesting in residential homes is one of the most resourceful ways to produce a reliable, constant flow of water. One of the easiest ways to do this is through a collection of rainwater.  Normally, this method of reservation would be used in unconnected rural communities, but as more residential areas are being built, the need for a sustainable, reliable water source.  

The harvesting system captures rainwater and directs it from a large surface, like a roof. It is connected to a holding tank that can be located below or above ground. From there, the tank provides a source of filtered water that can be pumped directly into appliances i.e. toilets, bathtubs, sinks, etc. Having a reliable water source like a tank safely provides a safety net to use in times of drought. It acts as convenient access to water and improves health and productivity. 

Ways to harvest water in residential homes in Kenya

With an increase in population and urbanization, the need for water is at an all-time high. Keeping your home with a supply of water can be tricky, especially if you don’t have the right practices or ways to harvest/conserve the water. 

Here are ways you can conserve rainwater;

• Use of water tanks

They are the most used type of container for water storage. They are used for residential buildings as they can store litres of water. Likewise, they can be outside water tanks or underground. Because of its large size, it should be placed on a stable to prevent unwanted damage.  

• Use of rain barrels

A rain barrel is a medium to large container that can collect water. It acts like a big bucket. It can be customized or made from an old or unused dustbin or a drum. Not only that, but it should be fitted with a filter to prevent foreign objects from getting in. 

 

This is a simple way to affordably store rainwater. 

• Use of Gutters

This is the first step in water harvesting, especially if you are collecting rainwater. It involves installing gutters on the roof of homes or commercial buildings and maximizing the surface area of it to collect rainwater.  They can direct water to storage water systems near the house.

• Use of green roofs

This method of water harvesting means channeling straight to a garden. It is the process that requires installing a drainage system on a building’s roof straight to the backyard. It is a low-maintenance method to do it.        

How to collect and purify water harvested in residential homes in Kenya

Once the water is collected, it is filled with bugs and bacteria, which isn’t suitable for drinking or cooking. Here are ways in which you can purify your water, without a hustle;

• Boiling

This is heating the water to boiling point and using distillation equipment to collect the clean water. It is through this, that sediments that could be harmful are left behind. 

• Filtering

This means using mechanical tools or substances such as sand or charcoal to remove contaminants from the water.

• Tablets/ liquid purifiers 

This means using store-bought remedies to neutralize substances in natural water. 

Advantages of water harvesting in residential homes in Kenya

It has been established that collecting rainwater is one of the best ways to harvest it. Here are the advantages of it;

• It’s a clean source of water

A huge benefit of water harvesting in residential homes in Kenya is that rainwater is a free source of water, and harvesting it can reduce your water bill.

•  It’s easy to install

The only thing needed to harvest your own water is a collection system.  The use of storage tanks and a simple pipe system to filter and use the water. Using rain gutters on the roof and directing the run-off to the storage tanks. 

• It is multipurpose

Using the water harvesting system leads to the accumulation of pure and toxin-free water. With this water, you can use it in gardens, in the house, or any other chore that requires the use of water. 

• It’s environmentally friendly

Using a water harvesting system is an excellent way to reduce carbon footprint and help the environment. In order to push sustainability, figuring out when to use the harvested water and when to use the other water is important.  To be environmentally friendly, it is suggested that, you should use clean water for drinking and cooking purposes and use rainwater for other needs. 

Conclusion

Water is a limited resource. Due to that, it is significant to potential homeowners and builders to always look for ways to conserve water. Water harvesting is an environmentally friendly option and has great advantages, especially for residential homes.