Multi-stage Pump and Large Pressure Tank

Rain water collected from the roof supplies ten times our annual needs. The skillion roof directs the rain water to one large gutter. The 7.5 degree pitch on the roof is sufficient to scour off leaf build-up which blows off the mesh leaf guard covering the gutter. A second leaf filter on the down pipe removes any small leafy material and the water travels underground to two 22,500L water tanks which are joined with a “T” and used simultaneously in order to assure some current and flow within the tanks. The water goes through a pre-filter and into a generator friendly multistage electric pump. In order to minimise power hungry start-ups the electric pump feeds an 80L pressure tank.

House water is accessed under pressure from this tank and you can run 20-30L of water through the taps before the pump cuts in for about 30 seconds. Electrical costs are saved in two ways. First each time the pump starts its needs to get all the water in the pipes moving this start-up demand this eats a considerable portion of electricity costs. The fewer times you start the pump the less the start-up costs. With the 80L pressure tank the pump only starts up a few times a day, not every time you put on the tap. Secondly, by running longer after each start-up the pump spends a greater portion of its running time operating at its optimal design efficiency; that is pumping the most water while using the least electricity.

Why No Bio-toilets?

“Eco / Bio” toilets that rely on reed beds or evaporation are largely ineffective in the rainforest. Heavy rain and humidity negate their design. Building planners need to keep this in mind when they dictate “one size fits all” regulations. We are a very diverse country... “Just because Sir Charles Kingsford-Smith took off into the wind doesn't mean everybody has to.”

After considering many options a modified septic system was chosen. In order to avoid damage to the buttress roots of surrounding rainforest trees, the trenches are dug wider and deeper. The trenches are located in the always dry area beneath the water tanks. This assures continued reliable infiltration even during periods of intense rain.

Multi-function Woodstove

The multifunction wood stove reduces our carbon footprint while supplying most of our dehumidifying, water heating and cooking energy needs. Our wood supply results from our rainforest restoration activities. (see Energy Redundancy)

Left : Woodstove with water tank connects via a thermosyphon to a hot water storage tank on the Right

The hot water source of choice: either wood stove or an on demand gas water heater, is determined by manual ball valve switching

see the section on Energy Redundancy to see how this system may be used as a water heater, cook stove, randiant heater and dehumidifier

Concentration of Services

Gas, water, drainage,electricity and telecommunications fixtures are concentrated in a common corner of the habitat. Shorter pipe runs simplify trouble shooting, maintain pressure and reduce thermal energy loss. Upstairs, plumbing services the kitchen sink and 5 star greywater toilet / sink combo and leads directly and vertically downstairs to the bathroom / 4 star toilet and laundry. Heat and moisture are removed by high level exhaust fans and if required, a small portable commercial electric dehumidifier.