Top Tips For Maintaining Rainwater Systems

Given that the UK is no stranger to wet weather, and we all use an awful lot of mains water, investing in a rainwater harvesting system is a smart move – and one that’s sure to have huge cash savings.

However, just because rainwater systems are passive, that’s not to say they are maintenance-free. In fact, having your system professionally serviced will ensure its continued smooth operation and will also provide you with the reassurance that it’s doing its job properly.

Here we look at just a few things you can do to ensure your rainwater system functions correctly for years to come.

HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR RAINWATER SYSTEM

• Make sure filters are free from debris

In most systems, rainwater passes through pre-tank filters. These are the first line of defence against unwanted contamination, so you must make sure that no debris could potentially impact your rainwater systems ability to function efficiently. Even if the filters are non-blocking, it’s still worth giving them a good clean from time to time to keep them in good shape.

• Clear gutters, pipes and tank

We appreciate that some parts of the rainwater system are trickier to inspect than others. However, there are several things you can do to eliminate potential risks.

Start by checking for cracks or leaks in the pipework. You also want to make sure that the tank isn’t contaminated. Pre-tank filtration should protect the tank against backflow and, in turn, eliminate contamination from downstream drainage. Another great way to maintain rainwater systems is to fetch your ladder and remove any dirt, debris or leaves from your gutters. Instructions on how to do so can be found in our blog ‘How to clean your gutters’.

• Check pumps and other accessories

Not all rainwater systems are the same, so it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with the different components. Ideally, the pumps should be checked – both visually and electrically – once a year and attached suction filters should be cleaned as and when required. An annual inspection will reveal any potential issues and, if caught early, will eliminate major problems later down the line.

• Schedule a professional service and inspection

Although we’d always advise you to inspect your rainwater system, we’d also recommend that you got your system professionally inspected and serviced annually. At least this way, you can be confident that everything is working as it should be and that any potential faults can be identified and rectified before it escalates into something much bigger and more expensive.

Seek expert advice from Total Pipes

If you have any questions regarding rainwater systems or would like some more tips on maintaining your system, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Either call 01254 382 000 or email sales@totalpipes.co.uk, and we’ll get back to you shortly.

And if there are any parts of your rainwater system that are damaged beyond repair or need replacing, be sure to take a look at our extensive range of products online.

Our collection of rainwater systems is vast and includes everything from square gutters and fittings to round downpipes, deep flow high capacity guttering, universal guttering accessories and more.  We pride ourselves on offering competitive pricing across our entire online inventory and provide free UK delivery for orders worth £300 or more.