Local Knowledge About Distribution

Removing the water from the storage tank can be achieved through gravity, if the tank is sufficiently high. The captured rainwater can also be removed by pumping. Most cases will require pumping the water into a pressure vessel similar to the method used to withdraw and pressurize water from a well (although a smaller pump can be used to pump from a storage tank). A screened 1.25" foot-valve inside the tank connected to an 1.25" outlet from the storage tank approximately one foot above the bottom (to avoid any settled particles) will help maintain the prime on the pump. A float switch should be used to turn off the pump if the water level is too low. The water that will be used for potable purposes can pass through an inline purification system or point-of-use water purification system. Other uses for the water may not need additional purification.