Studies revealed that more than 30 Australian regions are at risk of flooding by the end of this decade. Heavy rainfalls are not the only reason for flooding. Excessive urban development is also a contributing factor in increasing stormwater runoff.
Rainwater harvesting is a great way to reduce the pressure on our waterways. Stormwater management is the need of the hour. To reduce the burden on freshwater resources and to supply your own water, investing in rainwater harvesting is a great idea. You can use the water for the garden, toilets and laundry.
The under-utilized resources can be used efficiently with adequate planning and some plumbing alterations. Selecting the best rainwater tank pump in Australia is understandably one of the first few steps. Moreover, in-depth knowledge of the Construction Code and council regulations is also required. There are certain codes and regulations that you need to know before planning the water conservation system, which are discussed in this post, so keep on reading.
General Requirements You Need To Know For Alternative Water Supply
Connection: For the installation of a rainwater tank, you need a licensed plumber that complies with the Plumbing Codes of Australia. All the products included in the rainwater harvesting system, including the pipes, fixtures and connection systems are AS/NZS 3500.1:2021
The Australian Plumbing and Drainage standard (AS/NZS 3500) is a regulatory requirement that applies to variation or alteration of existing plumbing installations.
Plumbing: When selecting a water pump supplier in Australia, make sure that they suggest the models that comply with AS/NZ 3500 standard. Before commencing the work, the respected water authorities should be informed through an applicable plumbing alteration form.
Moreover, utilisation of the rainwater can only be done after installing an interchange device. The mandatory device can be automatic or manual to ensure a non-stop water supply to the building.
Backflow: For compliant rainwater tank installation, you have to make sure that the mains water supply is never contaminated due to the rainwater backflow.
A dual check valve or an interconnection device is mandatory to prevent backflow and prevent mixing of rainwater with the main water supply in the building. Annual testing and reporting to the water authority are also required. The backflow prevention device should be checked every year by a licensed plumber.
Compliance Certificate: After the installation, you require a compliance certificate. The documentation ensures that the work is done in accordance with the applicable standards. The certificate can be provided by the licensed plumber and a copy of the same needs to be submitted to the local water authority.
As the property owner, it is your responsibility to install a compliant system and inform the regulatory bodies. Moreover, you are accountable to get the backflow prevention and the pipe system checked every year.
Further Information
Rainwater harvesting is highly beneficial for our environment. However, while installing the system, make sure to follow the regulatory codes to reduce the risk of faulty workmanship. To learn more about the compliant product line and the pump installation process, you can consult the experienced team at Think Water. They partner with top brands for rainwater harvesting, water treatment, solar pumps, fire-fighting equipment and water sprinklers in Australia.