Rainwater harvesting is an ancient technique enjoying a revival in popularity due to the inherent quality of rainwater and interest in reducing consumption of treated water.  Rainwater collection has numerous benefits such as: free supply, low mineral and sodium content, reduction in non-point source pollution, and reduced demand on water utilities.  

 

This course introduces the basic principles of residential and small-scale commercial rainwater harvesting systems design.  The design process includes choosing system components in the most cost effective and advantageous manner. It is intended to serve as a first step in consideration of the use of rainwater harvesting systems.  

 

This course is based on the publication, Texas Manual on Rainwater Harvesting. The information in this course may be useful in planning and sizing of rainwater harvesting systems.

The student be introduced to the basic components of a rainwater harvesting system and be able to evaluate potential residential, or small-scale commercial candidate sites to determine their suitability for installing a rainwater harvesting system.

 

The student will be introduced design and construction methods to use rainwater harvesting systems to reduce the demand on the public water system and improve the water quality of runoff form properties using rainwater harvesting systems.

 

The student will be introduced to treatment and disinfection equipment necessary for use in potable water systems to maintain safe levels of water quality.

 

The student will be introduced to best management practices to protect the public and the owner of the rainwater harvesting system.

 

The student will be introduce to general construction cost criteria and methods of estimating and evaluating costs of planned rainwater harvesting systems.