Rainwater Supply (Tank Water)
Many rural properties rely on rainwater captured from their roof for their water supply. Although rainwater itself is generally pure, it picks up many contaminants as it falls through the atmosphere, such as dust, salt (near ocean) and air pollution. Rainwater is also contaminated when it runs down the roof; picking up dust, leaves, faecal matters from birds and possums, bacteria, Giardia, Cryptosporidium; as well as fertilisers, herbicide and pesticide sprays that drift and land on the roof. If you live near an orchard, market garden or farm which uses sprays or fertilizers, it is recommended that a chemical removal filter be used. Air-borne chemicals can travel up to 15km on a non-windy day and land on your roof. Rainwater can also be slightly acidic, causing corrosion of copper and metal fittings which result in blue/green staining.
It has been a common trend to treat rainwater with chlorine to kill any bacteria, however, this is not recommended, as the chlorine will react with any organic matter in the water and produce trihalomethanes (THM’s) as byproducts, which are known to be carcinogenic. We recommend Steritank for shock dosing a tank if bacteria are present.
Many varying factors and circumstances, as well as personal preferences, will determine the level of water treatment that is required. Some common options for treating rainwater supplies are listed below:
Drinking Water Only (point of use)
Point of use water purifier (kitchen sink, etc.) for removal of taste, smells, chemicals, Giardia and Cryptosporidium and other contaminants from the drinking water. Options also available for bacteria removal.
Whole House
Treats all water coming into the dwelling, including bathrooms. Options available from basic sediment filtration through to removal of all contaminants, including bacteria. Systems also available for acidic rainwater (blue/green staining).
Whole House and Drinking Water
Removes sediment, Giardia and Cryptosporidium from all water coming into dwelling; with a separate point of use filter for removal of other contaminants and taste for drinking water. Systems also available for acidic rainwater (blue/green staining) and for bacterial contamination.