Cisterns
Cisterns To Collect Non-Potable Water For Domestic Use
Supplies of groundwater are limited in many parts of Florida. To conserve groundwater, rainwater can be used for such things as watering gardens or washing cars. Water used for such purposes, but not for human consumption, is called non-potable water.
Types of Cisterns
Cisterns are storage tanks for rainfall that has been collected from a roof or some other catchment area. Although usually located underground, cisterns may be placed at ground level or on elevated stands either outdoors or within buildings. Cisterns
should be watertight, have smooth interior surfaces, enclosed lids, and be large enough to provide adequate storage. They should be fabricated from non-reactive materials such as reinforced concrete, galvanized steel, and plastic. Concrete blocks or
wood are sometimes used, but these are difficult to keep watertight.
- Your well does not produce enough water for surge periods. A surge period would be: showering in the morning, then running a load of laundry and also running the dishwasher before leaving for work.
- You have a source of water that is intermittent. Perhaps your incoming subdivision water or well water is unreliable; or you have to have water hauled in.
- Your incoming water does not give you enough pressure or maybe the pressure fluctuates due to other water users on the system.
- You need to treat the water. Water needs to have 'contact time' with chlorine or ozone for sterilization. Contact time is also needed for the iron or hydrogen sulfide to 'grow' or oxidize so that filtration can remove it.