The Drain Surgeon

Melbourne's Sewer & Stormwater Specialists

2 Homan Court
Warrandyte South 3134
Victoria  Australia
Tel (03) 9876 5263
Fax (03) 9876 5263
Email Us

General Questions

What is rainwater harvesting?

Rainwater harvesting is the:

-          collection

-          storage and

-          distribution of rainwater

We specialize in the installation of belowground concrete rainwater harvesting systems, which allow our customers to maximize the collection of rainwater, and distribute this in an environmental friendly way.

Why should I consider rainwater harvesting?

Australia is one of the driest continents on earth, and many remote communities still rely on rainwater as their only form of water supply. In these circumstances where a reticulated water supply is unavailable (Mains Water Supply), rainwater is used for all aspects of day-to day living. This includes drinking, bathing, cooking, etc.

As water restrictions become a permanent fixture in suburban Australian life, many householders are beginning to develop a deeper environmental conscience. Rainwater harvesting is just one of many ways householders can minimize their impact on the environment, by reducing their reliance on Mains Water Supply. There is also the financial benefit of reduced water bills and added property value…

How does rainwater harvesting work?

Rainwater harvesting in a domestic environment is a very simple, yet effective process.

  • The roof of the house acts as a catchment area, with collected rainwater being directed to the gutter and downpipes
  • Rainwater then enters the below ground storm water piping, before entering the underground water storage tank
  • Harvested rainwater can then be pumped from the tank, and used for a number of different applications

 

water1.JPG

What can rainwater be used for?

Rainwater can be used for a number of different applications including:

-          Saving lawns & gardens

-          Flushing toilets

-          Supplying washing machines

-          washing cars & other vehicles

-          Swimming pools

-          General cleaning

 

Why use a concrete underground water storage tank?

-          Aesthetically pleasing by being out of sight, out of mind

-          Allows for the utilization of outdoor areas

-          Cheaper in comparison to many of the above ground tanks available

-          Environmentally friendly construction

-          6 different sizes to choose from 2,000L to 30,000L

-          Extremely durable and suited to harsh Australian conditions

-          Covered by 12-year manufactures warranty  

 

What type of Warranty is the rainwater harvesting system covered by?

The underground harvesting system is covered by 3 separate warranties, to give the householder complete confidence in the product:

-          Certificate of Compliance

-          6-Year Installation Warranty (covers all plumbing works carried out)

-          12-Year Manufactures Warranty (covers concrete tank)

-           2 Year Manufactures Warranty (covers pump and fittings)

 

Is my house suitable for an underground rainwater harvesting system?

The underground rainwater harvesting systems installed by the Drain Surgeon P/L are suitable for most properties, as they come in a range of tank sizes. However, it is necessary to get a free evaluation to confirm all associated aspects. An evaluation by our team provides the client with an accurate price and timeframe for the complete installation of the system.

The 3 main factors that dictate installation suitability are:

-          Site access

-          Available installation area

-          Soil conditions

 

How much does a complete underground water storage system cost?

Please refer to the ‘harvesting system price guide’ for estimated costs. Please note, these figures are provided as a guide only, with an on-site evaluation required for an accurate figure.

 

Am I eligible for a $1,000 Government Rebate?

Any Victorian householder that has a water tank installed by a licensed plumber can become eligible for a cash rebate of up to $1000 through the Victorian Governments ‘Water Smart Gardens and Homes Rebate Scheme’. For more information, refer to the Victorian Government Website:        

www.ourwater.vic.gov.au

 

How can I obtain a FREE on-site evaluation?

Simply email us at the Drain Surgeon P/L to obtain a free evaluation anywhere in Metropolitan Melbourne, by a member of our expert team:

contact@drainsurgeon.com.au

 

Typical Underground Rainwater Harvesting System for Garden Use ONLY

Installation of Rainwater Harvesting System includes the supply and installation of the following items:

-          Concrete underground water storage tank

-          Storm water inlet and overflow to tank

-          Above ground suction pump with foot valve

-          25mm water line to outside garden tap (within 10m of tank)

-          Removal of excess soil and site clean

 

This system provides a tap for the re-use of collected rainwater on the garden and other outdoor applications.

water2.JPG

 

Typical Underground Rainwater Harvesting System for Inside & Garden Use

Installation of Rainwater Harvesting System includes the supply and installation of the following items:

-          Concrete underground water storage tank

-          Storm water inlet and overflow to tank

-          Above ground suction pump with foot valve

-          Pump controller for switch between tank and mains pressure supply

-          25mm water line to outside garden tap (within 10m of tank)

-          25mm waterline to 2 cisterns inside (within 25m of tank)

-          Removal of excess soil and site clean

This system provides:

-          Outside tap for the re-use of collected rainwater on the garden and other outdoor applications

-          Plumbing for the re-use of collected rainwater for flushing 2 cisterns

 

water3.JPG