Rain Water Harvesting | RotoTankTM

Installing Rainwater Harvesting Tanks

zelda — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 13:07:41 +0000

How to Install a Rainwater Harvesting Tank in 8 Easy Steps

Installing Rainwater Harvesting Tanks

Rainwater harvesting is one of the smartest investments for any South African household. It helps you cut water bills, stay prepared for water shortages, and support the environment by using nature’s free supply.

The good news? Installing a rainwater tank is easier than you think. Follow these 10 simple steps to get started:

Choose the Right Tank Size

Your choice depends on roof size and water needs. Small homes may need a 2,500L tank, while larger properties benefit from 5,000L or more. (RotoTank™ offers tanks from 500L to 20,000L to suit every need.)

Step 1: Prepare the Ground Base

Ensure the area where the water tank will be installed is level and solid.
Build a solid, concrete base to provide a stable foundation for the tank. The base must support the full weight of the water tank when filled with water.

Step 2: Install the Water Tank

Place the RotoTank™ on the solid level base.

Ensure that the tank is positioned close to the downpipe system to allow proper connection.

Step 3: Attach the Gutter Buddy

Fit the Gutter Buddy to the top end of your roof’s gutter system.
The Gutter Buddy will prevent large debris like leaves from entering the rainwater harvesting system, ensuring cleaner water flows into the tank.

Step 4: Install the First Flush System

Install the First Flush Diverter underneath the gutter downpipe.
Use a recommended length of PVC pipe (650 mm x 110 mm) between the downpipe and the diverter.
The First Flush Diverter will capture the initial contaminated rainwater from the roof and divert it away from the tank. This ensures that only cleaner water is sent into your water tank.

Step 5: Connect the Downpipe to the Tank

Attach the downpipe from the gutter system to the water inlet on the RotoTank™.
Ensure the downpipe is securely connected so that rainwater can flow freely into the tank after passing through the Gutter Buddy and First Flush system.

Step 6: Set the Height for a Collection Bucket

Leave an appropriate height between the ground and the end of the First Flush pipe for a bucket or another drainage mechanism to collect diverted water.
Make sure the system is properly sealed and positioned.

Step 7: Final Checks

Inspect the entire setup to ensure there are no leaks or loose fittings.
Check that the Gutter Buddy and First Flush System are correctly filtering debris and contaminated water.

Step 8: Tie Downs if required

RotoTank™ Supplies Steal cable tie downs that loop around designed ears on the water tank. Simply loop around and then secure tightly to the ground with Eye bolts.

Installing Rainwater Harvesting Tanks

The post Installing Rainwater Harvesting Tanks appeared first on RotoTankTM.

Benefits of Rainwater Harvesting

zelda — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 07:29:18 +0000

Benefits of Rainwater Harvesting in South Africa

South Africa is a water-scarce country, where unpredictable rainfall and growing demand put pressure on municipal systems. To combat this, more households and businesses are turning to rainwater harvesting as a sustainable and cost-effective solution. At RotoTank™, we manufacture durable water storage tanks and rainwater harvesting combo deals that make it simple and affordable to collect and store rainwater. Learn more about choosing, installing and maintaining water tanks in our Water Storage Tanks Guide.

Here are the five main benefits of rainwater harvesting in South Africa:

1. Reduces Dependence on Municipal Supply

Municipal water restrictions and interruptions are becoming increasingly common. By storing rainwater in a UV-stabilised RotoTank™ water tank, you create a reliable backup supply for household needs, garden irrigation, or business operations. This independence ensures peace of mind during water outages.

2. Saves Money on Water Bills

Every litre of rainwater you collect is a saving on your municipal bill. Using stored water for flushing toilets, washing vehicles, or watering gardens significantly reduces costs. Over time, a RotoTank™ tank and pump combo becomes a smart long-term investment that pays for itself.

3. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable

Rainwater harvesting is an eco-friendly practice that reduces pressure on South Africa’s limited water resources. By lowering reliance on dams and rivers, it supports groundwater recharge and promotes sustainable living. Choosing a RotoTank™ harvesting system means actively contributing to water conservation in your community.

4. Improves Water Security in Rural and Urban Areas

In rural communities, rainwater storage provides access where piped supply is unreliable. In urban areas, it acts as a safeguard during supply cuts. Our high-quality tanks are designed to store rainwater safely for extended periods, ensuring freshness and preventing algae growth.

5. Increases Property Value

Installing a rainwater harvesting system adds long-term value to your home or business. Buyers and tenants see the benefit of reduced utility bills and an independent water source. A professionally installed RotoTank™ system is both functional and an attractive selling point.

Why Choose RotoTank™ Rainwater Harvesting?

At RotoTank™, we’ve made rainwater harvesting simple with our ready-to-install combo deals, which include:

A high-quality tank in the size you need.
Gutters and filters for roof catchment systems.
Optional pumps and fittings for efficient water use.
Easy-to-install kits designed for convenience.
Optional filtration systems for cleaner water.
Free delivery across South Africa.

With over 40 years of experience, RotoTank™ is trusted by households, farmers, and industries nationwide. Visit our Rainwater Harvesting Combo Deals to start your rainwater harvesting journey today.

Learn more about choosing, installing and maintaining water tanks in our Water Storage Tanks Guide. How much water does your home consume during a month? View More About Household Water Usage

The post Benefits of Rainwater Harvesting appeared first on RotoTankTM.

Rainwater Harvesting Tanks Guide

zelda — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 13:41:27 +0000

Understanding what a septic tank system is used for in South Africa.

A septic tank is a crucial component of a wastewater treatment system that’s commonly used in areas where there’s no centralized sewer system available. Its main purpose is to treat and manage household wastewater, including from toilets, sinks, showers, and laundry, in a decentralized manner.

Learn more about choosing, installing and maintaining water tanks in our Water Storage Tanks Guide.

Here's how a Septic Tank Works:

Wastewater Collection: All the household wastewater flows into the septic tank through pipes from various sources in the house.
Separation and Settling: Once inside the tank, the wastewater is allowed to sit for a while. During this time, solid particles settle to the bottom, forming a layer of sludge. Lighter substances like oils and fats float to the top, creating a layer of scum. The remaining liquid in the middle is relatively clearer.
Biological Treatment: The middle liquid layer, also known as the effluent, contains some suspended organic matter and bacteria. Anaerobic bacteria present in the septic tank start to break down this organic matter, partially treating the wastewater. However, the treatment is not complete at this stage.
Outlet and Drain Field: Once the effluent reaches a certain level within the septic tank, it is pushed out into a drain field, also called a leach field or absorption field. The drain field consists of perforated pipes buried in gravel-filled trenches. The effluent slowly seeps through the pipes and into the surrounding soil.
Final Treatment: As the effluent percolates through the soil, further treatment occurs. Aerobic bacteria in the soil continue to break down the remaining organic matter and pathogens. The soil acts as a natural filter, removing many contaminants and purifying the water before it reaches groundwater.

RotoTank™ septic tank systems are well-designed and if properly maintained can effectively treat wastewater and prevent contamination of the environment. However, it’s essential to ensure regular maintenance, such as periodic pumping of the accumulated sludge and scum from the tank. Failing to maintain a septic tank system can lead to clogs, backups, and groundwater pollution.

Overall, the purpose of a septic tank is to treat household wastewater in areas without access to a centralized sewage system, protecting public health and the environment by effectively managing and treating wastewater on-site.

RotoTank™ has designed and manufacture the widest range of sizes to suit any residential of industrial situation.

What size RotoTank™ septic tank would I require for my home or business; is the question we get asked the most. To simply answer that question, follow the guidelines below:

1 – 2 people =300l

1 – 3 people = 600l

1 – 4 people = 1000l

1 – 7 people = 1750l

1 – 10 people = 2500l

1 – 25 people = 6000l

1 – 35 people = 8000l

1 – 55 people =12500l

Are there Septic Tank Manufacturers in South Africa?

RotoTank™ provides excellent quality septic tanks, with a long-standing record for quality and are readily available with direct sales to the public.

Why do you need septic tanks?

Septic tanks are commonly used in South Africa, especially in rural and peri-urban areas where there might not be access to centralized sewer systems. In these areas, septic tanks provide a decentralized solution for wastewater treatment. They are used to manage household wastewater in a safe and environmentally responsible manner.

The use of septic tanks in South Africa is influenced by factors such as the availability of infrastructure, population density, and geographic location. In more densely populated urban areas with access to centralized sewage systems, septic tanks might be less common. However, in rural and less developed areas, septic tanks are often relied upon as a practical means of treating and managing wastewater.

As with any country, the effectiveness of septic tank systems in South Africa depends on proper design, installation, and maintenance. It’s important to adhere to guidelines and regulations to ensure that these systems function effectively and don’t pose a risk to public health or the environment. To this end, RotoTank™ has spent years testing and designing the perfect solution that is not only cost effective but strong and durable, with as little risk to the environment as possible.

What is the Difference between a Septic Tank and a Sewage Tank?

The terms “septic tank” and “sewage tank” are often used interchangeably, but they can refer to slightly different systems based on context and regional terminology. However, in many cases, they refer to the same basic concept: a container designed to collect and partially treat wastewater before further processing or disposal.

Here’s a general breakdown of the terms:

Septic Tank:
• A septic tank is a component of a septic system that’s commonly used for wastewater treatment in areas without access to centralized sewer systems.
• It is a watertight container usually made of concrete, fiberglass, or plastic, buried underground near a home or building.
• The primary purpose of a septic tank is to separate and partially treat solid waste and liquids in household wastewater.
• The liquid portion of the wastewater (effluent) is then discharged into a drain field for further treatment in the surrounding soil.
Sewage Tank:
• The term “sewage tank” is sometimes used more broadly to refer to any type of tank or container used to collect and store sewage or wastewater.
• In some cases, it could refer to a tank that’s part of a larger sewage treatment facility, such as a municipal wastewater treatment plant.
• It’s also possible that “sewage tank” is used in some regions to describe the same concept as a septic tank, particularly when the focus is on on-site wastewater treatment.

In summary, while there might be slight variations in terminology, both “septic tank” and “sewage tank” generally refer to containers designed to hold and treat wastewater, with the effluent eventually undergoing further treatment or disposal. To assist with this matter RotoTank™ has designed and manufacture Underground Conservancy tanks for the collection and storage of grey water, these thanks do differ from a septic tank system as they are generally installed with a submersible pump to irrigate the grey water out over gardens etc. The underground tanks would not be linked to the sewage system only the tap -bath-shower outlets.

What is important to remember when setting up a septic tank in South Africa?
Preventive Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial for the proper functioning of a septic tank system. Periodic pumping of accumulated sludge and scum from the tank is necessary to prevent clogs and backups. Neglecting maintenance can lead to system failure and environmental contamination.

RotoTank™ supplies all the required elements to not only set up a Septic Tank system but also to maintain the system. With inspection chambers, starter tablets and maintenance treatments it has never been so easy to look after your system.

It’s important to note that the effectiveness of a septic tank system depends on factors such as design, installation, maintenance, soil conditions, and the volume of wastewater produced.

South Africa, like many other countries, has regulations and guidelines in place to ensure the proper installation and maintenance of septic tank systems to protect public health and the environment.

RotoTank™ supplies all natural starter tablets to kick off your septic tank systems, the tablets themselves are easy and convenient to use just by flushing down your toilet.

When the tablets are added to the septic tank, they dissolve and release the bacteria and enzymes into the system. These microorganisms then begin to break down the solid waste and convert it into a liquid form, which can be more easily processed by the septic system.

The bacteria in the tablets are typically chosen for their ability to break down different types of waste, such as proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Enzymes help to speed up the breakdown process by breaking down larger molecules into smaller pieces that can be more easily digested by the bacteria.

What happens when your RotoTank™ septic tank is full?

When a septic tank becomes full or reaches its capacity, several potential issues can arise, leading to system malfunction and potential environmental and health risks. Here’s what can happen when a septic tank is full.

Reduced Treatment Efficiency: A septic tank works by allowing solid particles to settle at the bottom and lighter materials to float to the top, while the partially treated effluent flows out to the drain field. When the tank is full, the available space for these processes is significantly reduced, leading to decreased treatment efficiency. This can result in higher levels of solid accumulation in the tank and less effective breakdown of organic matter.
Increased Risk of Clogs and Backups: With less space available in the tank, the likelihood of solid materials clogging pipes and the outlet becomes higher. This can lead to backups in the plumbing system within your home, causing toilets, sinks, and drains to overflow or become slow to drain.
Contamination of Drain Field: If the septic tank is too full, the effluent that flows into the drain field might still contain too much suspended solid material and organic matter. This can overload the drain field’s capacity to absorb and treat the effluent, leading to clogs, reduced drainage capacity, and the failure of the drain field.
Odors and Surface Ponding: A full septic tank can lead to increased Odors around the tank area, as well as the formation of surface ponding or standing water over the drain field. These issues can negatively impact the aesthetics of your property and can be indicators of a system in distress.
Environmental Contamination: If the septic tank becomes overwhelmed and fails to treat wastewater properly, untreated, or poorly treated effluent can flow into the environment. This can contaminate soil, groundwater, and nearby surface water bodies, posing a risk to public health and the environment.

To avoid these problems, regular maintenance is essential. Septic tanks need to be pumped periodically to remove accumulated sludge and scum. The frequency of pumping depends on factors such as the tank’s size, the number of occupants in the household, and the volume of wastewater generated. Following a recommended pumping schedule and being mindful of what goes down your drains can help keep your septic system functioning effectively and prevent costly issues. If you suspect that your septic tank is full or are experiencing problems, it’s recommended to contact a professional septic system service provider to assess and address the situation.

RotoTank™ septic tank system also allows you via an inspection chamber to periodically inspect the condition of your system, the tank is placed after the septic tank but before the soak away tank/ French drain. The fluid that flows into the inspection chamber tank should be clear and indicate the good health of your septic tank system, with little or no odor.

How long does a RotoTank™ Septic Tank last?

The lifespan of a septic tank can vary widely based on factors such as its material, design, installation quality, maintenance, and the volume of wastewater it handles. On average, a RotoTank™ septic tank system, with its unique design and extremely durable shape, manufactured from the highest quality plastics, and if kept properly maintained can last anywhere from 20 to 40 years or even longer. However, there are several key factors that can influence the longevity of a septic tank:

1. Material: The material from which the septic tank is constructed can affect its lifespan. Plastic septic tanks tend to be durable and can last several decades if properly cared for. Concrete and fiberglass tanks might have a shorter lifespan, typically around 10 to 15 years.
2. Installation Quality: A professionally installed septic tank with proper soil compaction, appropriate drainage, and correct sizing is more likely to last longer. Poor installation practices can lead to structural issues and reduced performance.
3. Maintenance: Regular maintenance, including periodic pumping to remove accumulated sludge and scum, is crucial for extending the life of a septic tank. Neglecting maintenance can lead to premature system failure.
4. Volume of Wastewater: The amount of wastewater the septic tank handles plays a role in its lifespan. If the tank consistently handles a higher volume of wastewater than it’s designed for, it can lead to faster deterioration and reduced treatment efficiency.
5. Soil Conditions: The type of soil and its drainage characteristics in the drain field area can impact the overall system’s performance. Soil that drains poorly or becomes compacted over time can affect the drain field’s ability to absorb effluent.
6. Chemical Usage: Harsh chemicals, excessive use of antibacterial products, and certain non-biodegradable substances can negatively impact the microbial balance within the septic tank, reducing its treatment efficiency and potentially shortening its lifespan.
7. Groundwater and Flooding: If the septic tank is subjected to high groundwater levels or flooding, it can lead to increased pressure on the tank, potential structural damage, and compromised functionality.

Regular inspections and maintenance by qualified professionals are essential for ensuring that a septic tank system remains in good condition and operates effectively throughout its lifespan. If you’re unsure about the status of your septic tank or its maintenance schedule, it’s recommended to consult with a local septic system service provider who can provide guidance and perform necessary inspections and maintenance tasks.

How far can a septic tank be from a house in South Africa?

In South Africa, as well as in many other places, the distance between a septic tank and a house is regulated to ensure proper sanitation, safety, and environmental protection. However, the specific regulations and guidelines can vary depending on the local authority, building codes, and health regulations of the area in question.

At RotoTank we recommend that a septic tank should be installed no closer than 2.5 – 3 meters from your home’s foundation. We would advise you to mark the area in some way or on a plan, so if you in the future decide to extend or make a deck, for example, the septic tank system will not be disturbed.

In general, RotoTank™ septic tanks should be located a safe distance away from a house to prevent issues such as odors, contamination, and potential structural problems. Here are some general considerations for septic tank placement distance from a house:

1. Health and Safety: A reasonable distance between a septic tank and a house is typically mandated to prevent odors from reaching living areas and to minimize the risk of contamination. The exact distance may vary, but a common guideline is to place the septic tank at least 3 to 6 meters from the house.
2. Local Regulations: Different municipalities and provinces within South Africa may have specific regulations regarding septic tank placement and setbacks. These regulations might include minimum distance requirements as well as guidelines for issues like groundwater protection and soil conditions.
3. Soil Conditions: The type of soil on your property can also impact the recommended distance between the septic tank and the house. Soil with good drainage properties may allow for a smaller setback, while poor-draining soil might necessitate a greater distance to prevent groundwater contamination.
4. Accessibility: While maintaining a safe distance, it’s also important to consider accessibility for maintenance and inspection. The septic tank should be easily accessible for pumping, repairs, and routine maintenance.
5. Topography: The slope and topography of your property can affect the placement of the septic tank. It’s important to avoid areas prone to flooding or areas where surface water can flow into the septic system.

To determine the specific regulations and guidelines for septic tank placement in your area of South Africa, it’s recommended to consult with local authorities, municipal offices, or environmental health departments. They can provide you with accurate and up-to-date information based on your specific location and circumstances.

Your local plumbers can assist and will know many of the regulations, but it is always advisable to check with municipalities.

How to clean a RotoTank™ septic tank?

Cleaning a septic tank involves the process of removing accumulated sludge and scum that builds up over time. This maintenance task is crucial for keeping the septic system functioning properly and avoiding issues like backups and system failure. However, it’s important to note that cleaning a septic tank is not a DIY job due to the potential health and environmental risks involved. It’s recommended to hire professional septic tank cleaning services to perform this task safely and effectively.

Hire a Professional: Contact a licensed and reputable septic tank cleaning company. They have the expertise, equipment, and training to handle the task safely and in compliance with regulations.
Inspection: Before cleaning, the professionals will often inspect the septic tank to assess its condition and determine the amount of sludge and scum present. This helps them plan the cleaning process.
Pumping: The main part of septic tank cleaning is pumping out the accumulated sludge and scum. Specialized vacuum trucks are used for this purpose. The vacuum truck’s powerful pump removes the waste material from the tank.
Disposal: The collected waste is transported by the service provider to an approved facility for proper disposal and treatment. This is usually a wastewater treatment plant or a designated disposal site.
Rinsing and Cleaning: After the pumping is complete, some cleaning companies might rinse the septic tank with water to remove remaining debris and residue. This step helps ensure a thorough cleaning process.
Inspection and Maintenance: Once the cleaning is done, the professionals might provide recommendations for any necessary repairs or maintenance. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential for the continued health of the septic system.
Schedule Future Cleanings: Depending on the size of the tank and the volume of wastewater your household produces; the professionals will recommend a schedule for future cleanings. This is usually every 1 to 3 years, but it can vary.

It’s important to avoid attempting to clean a septic tank on your own. The gases and materials within a septic tank can be hazardous to your health, and improper handling can lead to spills, environmental contamination, and other serious problems. Hiring a professional service ensures that the cleaning process is done safely, efficiently, and in compliance with local regulations.

Can you run too much water into septic tank?

Yes, running too much water into a septic tank can have negative consequences for the overall functioning of the system. Septic systems are designed to handle a certain volume of wastewater at a time and exceeding that capacity can lead to various issues. Here’s why running too much water into a septic tank can be problematic:

1. Reduced Treatment Efficiency: Septic tanks rely on the natural process of settling and separation to treat wastewater. When too much water enters the tank rapidly, the solids and scum might not have enough time to settle properly. This can lead to inadequate treatment and increased solid accumulation in the tank, which can eventually lead to clogs and backups.
2. Overloading the Drain Field: The septic tank’s primary function is to separate solids from the liquid effluent before it enters the drain field. If too much water enters the tank too quickly, it can overwhelm the tank’s capacity to effectively separate solids. This can result in more solids and organic matter reaching the drain field, potentially clogging the drain field pipes and reducing its capacity to absorb and treat effluent.
3. Shortened Tank Retention Time: The retention time is the period during which wastewater remains in the septic tank for settling and partial treatment. Excessive water inflow can reduce this retention time, reducing the effectiveness of the treatment process.
4. Risk of System Failure: Overloading the septic system with excessive water can lead to system overload and potential failure. Clogs, backups, and other malfunctions are more likely to occur when the system is not given enough time to properly treat the incoming wastewater.

To avoid these issues, it’s important to practice water conservation and mindful water usage in households connected to septic systems.

Here are some tips:
• Fix leaks promptly to prevent excess water from entering the system.
• Use water-efficient appliances and fixtures.
• Avoid doing multiple loads of laundry or running the dishwasher in a brief period.
• Space out water usage activities to give the septic system time to treat the water.
• Be cautious during heavy rainfall, as excess rainwater entering the system can also lead to overloading.

Ultimately, maintaining a balanced approach to water usage and being mindful of how much water enters the septic system can help ensure its proper function and longevity.

What are the best types of septic tanks made from in South Africa?

1. RotoTank Plastic (Polyethylene): Rotational Molded septic tanks, made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), are lightweight and easy to install. They don’t corrode or rust and have smooth interiors that discourage the buildup of sludge. Plastic tanks are resistant to cracking in freezing conditions and are an excellent choice for areas with fluctuating water tables. They can last for several decades if properly maintained.
2. Concrete: Concrete septic tanks are widely used and are known for their durability and strength. Concrete tanks are resistant to buoyancy, making them suitable for areas with high groundwater. However, they can be heavy and require specialized equipment for installation.
3. Fiberglass: Fiberglass septic tanks are lightweight and can be easier to install than concrete tanks. They are resistant to corrosion and rust, which can extend their lifespan. Fiberglass tanks are also less likely to crack in freezing temperatures. However, they may not be as strong as concrete and might require additional reinforcement. Steel: Steel septic tanks are not as common as other materials due to the potential for corrosion. However, some tanks are made from galvanized or epoxy-coated steel to mitigate corrosion. While steel tanks can be strong and durable, proper coating and maintenance are essential to prevent rust.
4. Concrete-Encased Steel: Some septic tanks combine the strength of steel with the durability of concrete. These tanks have a steel core that is encased in concrete. This design provides the structural benefits of steel and protection against corrosion from concrete.

What to think about when choosing a septic tank material?

RotoTank™ will always advise you to consider the local climate, soil conditions, regulations, maintenance requirements, and your budget.

Proper installation, regular maintenance, and adherence to local guidelines are key to maximizing the lifespan and effectiveness of your chosen septic tank system.

If you are still unsure what the next step is, please feel free to contact RotoTank™, we have trained friendly staff that are always ready and willing to answer all your questions.

With years of experience, we understand it can be a daunting undertaking to install a new septic tank system.

At RotoTank™ we have created Combo deals specially designed to make your decisions easier and adaptable to your budgets.

Learn more about choosing, installing and maintaining water tanks in our Water Storage Tanks Guide.

The post Rainwater Harvesting Tanks Guide appeared first on RotoTankTM.

How to Install a RotoTank™ Rainwater Harvesting Tank

zelda — Wed, 15 Feb 2023 08:22:48 +0000

How to install a RotoTank™ Rainwater Harvesting Tank

The specific steps for installing a rainwater harvesting tank can vary depending on factors such as the size and type of tank, the location of the installation, and local regulations. However, the general steps for installing a rainwater harvesting tank are:

Choose an appropriate location for the tank, ideally near a downpipe or other source of rainwater.
Level the ground where the tank will be placed.
Install a base of compacted gravel or concrete to provide a stable foundation for the tank. Make sure your finished platform is 100% level, with no loose stones or sharp objects protruding.
Install the tank according to the manufacturer’s instructions, making sure that all connections and fittings are secure. Do not over tighten the fittings, this may cause the internal nut to loosen, resulting in a leak. Use flexi hose and fittings, not rigid piping as this can lead to long term damage to the base fitting and tank.
Install a leaf catcher and a first-flush diverter to prevent debris and pollutants from entering the tank. This can be mounted to the wall next to your tank. Empty this system after big rains, to clean the tank and prevent back flow of debris.
Connect the tank to a distribution system that will allow you to use the harvested rainwater for irrigation, washing, or other non-potable uses. This can be in the form of a standard tap, or a pump interconnected to your inline house feed.
If you wish to use a water pump, get the right advise on the size required for your home, the height of your property and number of taps you wish to use at any given moment will influence your requirements.
Pump covers are recommended to protect your pump and electrical wires from the natural elements.
We would advise a filtration system to be placed on the inline feed if you are considering using the water for drinking purposes. Alternatively boiling the water is a must.
Consider installing an overflow system to prevent water overflowing in heavy rains close to your home, the pipe should be angled away from the property, down hill if possible, preventing water flowing back towards your foundations.
Depending on local regulations, you may need to obtain permits or have the installation inspected by a professional

The post How to Install a RotoTank™ Rainwater Harvesting Tank appeared first on RotoTankTM.

First Flush System

zelda — Wed, 15 Jun 2022 10:46:57 +0000

What is a RotoTank ™ First flush?

Essentially it is a system designed to divert debris from your roof so it can settle in a container, and only clean water can flow into your rainwater harvesting tank, as the debris settles it collects at the base of the system and can be flushed away.Learn more about choosing, installing and maintaining water tanks in our Water Storage Tanks Guide.

Why do we use a First Flush System?

First flush systems are a critical part of your rainwater harvesting system, the RotoTank ™ First Flush system helps to divert the sediment filled water to a holding 50 litre wall mounted Tank, as the tank fills the sediment settles at the base of the tank, the tank has been designed to allow the sediment to settle down to a central point where a fitting can then connect to the supplied tap at which point you can then connect a hose pipe. As the water rises in the tank the sediment settles, ultimately the clean water diverts to your rainwater harvesting tank and you prevent these contaminants from going into your system.

What is Sediment?

When it rains those first initial millimetres of rain clean off all the debris from your roof, this can include twigs leaves and dust and bird droppings, but in many parts of South Africa this can also include Monkey and other animal droppings.

How Does the RotoTank First Flush System Help me?

By separating these sediments and contaminants out of your tank, first flush diverters help to improve your rainwater quality and safety. RotoTank™ first flush system also extends the life of your pumps and fittings and reduce tank maintenance. If you want to protect your rainwater quality by keeping as many dissolved and undissolved particles out of your tank as possible, then you need to incorporate a RotoTank™ first flush diversion in your rain harvesting system design. Learn more about choosing, installing and maintaining water tanks in our Water Storage Tanks Guide.

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