Rainwater harvesting is the collection and storage of rainwater for reuse domestically. Methods of domestic rainwater harvesting include rain barrels, cisterns, and tanks. It has a wide range of as benefits including:
Rain barrels are containers connected to existing downspouts to collect rainwater from rooftop and store it for later use. This reduces stormwater flows into local streams. In the Chesapeake Bay watershed, high stormwater volume contributes to Bay pollution, by sending large amounts of road grease, sediment and trash into waterways emptying into the Bay. Rainwater harvesting is one way property owners can help make our streams, and the Bay, healthier.
Rain barrels can be made of plastic or wood and can come in various colors or designs. Rain barrels can range in size from 30 to 100 gallons, and more than one barrel can be used to increase capacity.
Many local governments offer rain barrel classes, information and (in some cases) rebates. Here is a partial list of links:
EDGE Energy supports rainwater harvesting. It is an inexpensive practice that decreases pollution and provides benefits to the homeowner. If you are interested in a rainwater harvesting system for your home, contact an EDGE Expert today.
EDGE Energy is a highly-regarded Residential, Commercial, and Government renewable energy systems installer and “green” building contractor which is licensed, insured, and bonded in all counties of VA, DC, and MD. We design and install custom solutions for energy efficiency and renewable energy systems with pride and with proven track records. Our special focus is completing projects which decrease utility bills and energy consumption by 25% to well over 100% – even creating homes that are “net-positive.” An Energy Audit is the first step to your energy efficient home!
Visit our project maps page to learn about homeowners in your neighborhood that have worked with EDGE in the past. Remember, EDGE Energy works with HOA’s, civic groups, trade organizations, office pools, or just simply any GROUP of organized homeowners interested in completing blocks of energy audits AND retrofit services like weatherization, duct-sealing, or air-sealing, and attic insulation. Many special pricing offers have been extended in the past due to the hard work of various “Neighborhood Champions” – those who have dedicated extra time to organizing group meetings, gathering email distribution lists, and assisting with scheduling.
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To achieve Passivhaus certification, the homes have to achieve a minimum air tightness level of 0.60 ACH 50, which is five times “tighter” than the 3.0 ACH 50 required of new Maryland code-built houses. In this image, Robert Champ of...
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