Rain on the Roof Can Mean Money in Your Pocket
Besides helping the environment, harvesting rainwater can also save you some other “green.” Depending on the size of your house and the amount of rainfall in your area, you can collect a substantial amount of rainwater with a simple system, making a big impact on your water bill. All those drops can be put to good use in your home and garden.
When warmer months roll around, municipalities may implement restrictions on water usage to ease the stress on underground aquifiers. Rainwater collection helps keep water available for days when access is limited. As no filtration system is required for water in landscape uses, you can take it directly from a rain barrel to your garden. And since rainwater is naturally soft—devoid of minerals, chlorine and other chemicals—plants respond very well, possibly improving the health of your lawn and trees.
Consult with a local conservation group or your hardware store for practical systems to use in your area. Bear in mind that uncovered containers pose risks for small children. Fine screens will keep wild and domestic animals from getting trapped in barrels or deter insects from breeding.