Water Filters: An Integral Part of Any Rainwater Collection System
Rainwater is safe for most household uses. Although some studies have shown that roof-harvested rainwater is generally potable, government agencies advise to avoid drinking the water unfiltered, as there are certain risks associated with it. Remember that rainwater comes in contact with various surfaces (roof, gutters, etc.) before it reaches your tank, not to mention the fact that it could already be carrying hazardous contaminants and pathogens such as the following:
Bacteria
Most pathogenic bacteria found in rainwater come from human and animal matter. Variables such as the specific type of bacteria and the strength of an individual’s immune system will determine if he or she will get sick from drinking untreated rainwater.
Protozoa
Protozoa, such as cryptosporidium and giardia, are parasites that live in the intestines of humans and animals. Once in the body, these microorganisms can cause diarrhoea, nausea, fever, abdominal cramps, weight loss and gastrointestinal distress. Their cysts (a dormant form), meanwhile, can resist disinfection.
Viruses
Rain can certainly carry viruses. After all, viruses are microscopic organisms that can easily be absorbed into falling rain. Viruses that attack the immune system can cause their hosts to fall ill, so their entry into drinking water must be prevented at all costs.
Chemicals
A range of toxic chemicals including pesticides, nitrate, chlorine, fluoride and certain metals can pollute rainwater. These hazardous chemicals can negatively impact human health and cause developmental and reproductive problems.
Protecting yourself
If you collect and store rainwater for drinking, you can lower your risk of infection by installing high-quality water filters sold by Perth rainwater tank suppliers such as Rainfill Tanks and Curved Roofing Supplies. These companies sell inlet/first flush filters, in-line filters and UV treatment systems to make collected rainwater safe to drink.
In addition to purchasing water filter systems, have the water in your tank tested regularly, and contact your local or state health department if you have any concerns. In most cases, such government agencies may test your water free of charge as part of their monitoring programme.
Sources:
Health Risk from the Use of Roof-Harvested Rainwater in Southeast Queensland, Australia, as Potable or Nonpotable Water, Determined Using Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment – U.S. National Library of Medicine
Is The Water In Your Rainwater Tank Safe To Drink? – Environmental Health Guide