How I Built a Giant Rain Tank in My Backyard

TLDRLearn how I built a massive rain tank in my backyard and secured my own water supply. See how I plumbed my house to run on rainwater and the steps I took to ensure clean and safe water. Discover the importance of having your own water supply and the benefits it can bring in times of water scarcity.

Key insights

💧Building a rain tank helps secure your own water supply, especially in times of water scarcity.

🌧️Collecting rainwater can lead to the collection of approximately 1,000 gallons for every inch of rainfall on a 2,000 square-foot roof.

🏡Plumbing a house to run on rainwater requires careful consideration and the use of metal roofs to avoid potential chemical contamination.

🔒Proper insulation and protection against galvanic corrosion are crucial in designing and building a rain tank and pump house.

🚰Having your own water supply is a valuable resource that becomes even more critical in times of water shortages and emergencies.

Q&A

Why is having my own water supply important?

Having your own water supply provides security and independence, especially during water shortages or emergencies.

How much rainwater can I collect from my roof?

On average, 1 inch of rainfall on a 2,000 square-foot roof can lead to the collection of approximately 1,000 gallons of water.

What considerations should I make when plumbing my house for rainwater?

Ensure you have a metal roof to avoid potential chemical contamination. Also, it's essential to maintain proper insulation and protect against galvanic corrosion.

Why is it important to filter rainwater?

Filtering rainwater removes debris, leaves, and contaminants, ensuring your water is clean and safe for various uses.

Can I legally collect rainwater?

Rainwater collection laws vary by region. It's important to research and understand the regulations in your area before installing a rain tank.

Timestamped Summary

00:00In this video, I'll show you how I built a massive rain tank in my backyard.

04:45I installed a huge steel retaining wall to prepare the tank site and ensure stability.

07:00Creating a level surface and using sand helped in the installation process.

09:58The pump house was constructed, insulated, and customized to house the necessary equipment.

13:04Gutter modifications and PVC pipes were used to direct rainwater from the roof to the tank, ensuring sufficient collection.

14:45I demonstrated how rainwater flows from the gutter to the tank using a lab bench model.