Rainwater harvesting consists of two key elements, rainwater and method of capture. The former is beyond your control. The latter, however, provides an abundance of options ranging from the simple cistern to trucks full of dirt needed to completely owerhaul your landscape. Most rainwater harvesting system use a catchment area, a conveyance system, storage containers and a distribution method. Other system use landscaping such as berms and swales to direct the rain toward greenery and away from concrete.

A common rainwater harvesting setup takes advantage of your home’s existing architecture. When it rains, water rolls down the roof into the gutters, which in turn carry the rainwater to a downspout where it can be diverted into a rain barrel or cistern. Gravity does the work while you reap the benefits. The only equipment you need to purchased is a special downspout diverter and the container. Most experts also recommend a roof washer to flush away the first few gallons, which carry most of the dust and other fooftop contamination, allowing fresh water to collect in the barrel or cistern. Additionally, leaf guards for the guttering will help prevent clogs. After installation, this simple system can collect tens of thousands of gallons per year.