Harvesting rain water for residential use is often a wise undertaking. In addition to lowering water consumption needs around the home, rain water harvesting is beneficial for the environment.

Typically, harvested rain water flows from the rooftop to storage tank before such water is distributed to various points of use around the home. Rainwater tank pumps provide the pressure required to move harvested water from the storage tank to the various points of use.

This article provides three tips for homeowners looking to make a first-time investment in a residential rainwater tank pump.

Available Types Of Pumps

Homeowners looking to invest in a pump need to be familiar with the various types of water pumps available for rainwater harvesting.

Positive displacement pumps are those whose operation involves the mechanical movement of water through the action of pistons or gears.

These water pumps are known for their higher head (amount of energy generated by the pump for movement of water). However, the rate at which harvested water flows through the distribution pipes is often not that high.

Dynamic rainwater tank pumps rely on the development of high fluid velocity within the pump's system for distribution of water to the various points of use. Consequently, dynamic pumps are known for their high rate of water flow and their relatively lower head measurements

Determining The Required Flow For Different Types Of Pumps

Pump flow refers to the rate at which harvested water flows through the distribution pipes. It is among the most important factors to consider when choosing between different types of pumps.

Homeowners can easily determine the flow required for a pump to be used with the residential rainwater harvesting system. The required flow is arrived at by adding up the flow of fixtures that often draw water from the storage tank simultaneously. Examples of these fixtures include garden sprinklers, washing machines, and residential toilets.

In the ideal situation, the flow provided by a preferred type of pump should be greater than the sum of flows required for individual fixtures. Only then can a water pump provide sufficient supply of harvested rain water without being over-worked.

Information relating to the flows required by various fixtures is often available from product manuals and related literature.  

Some Recommended Pump Accessories

Accessories increase the convenience associated with the use of rainwater tank pumps. For example, float-level switches help to prevent pump damage. One such switch will disengage the pump in the event that the volume of rain water in the storage tank goes below a pre-set level.

Pressure tanks are also recommended accessories for use with rainwater tank pumps. These pumps are used as a storage location for pressurized water such that the need to turn the pump on and off is reduced when there's little demand for water from various household fixtures.

For more information, visit websites like http://www.slaterpumpsmelbourne.com.au.