Frequently Asked Questions
Browse our most frequently asked questions to find quick answers about rainwater harvesting, flood mitigation, and our services.
General Questions About Rainwater Harvesting
How does rainwater harvesting work? Rainwater harvesting systems collect rain from your roof through existing guttering and downpipes. The water passes through a filter to remove leaves and debris before being stored in a tank. From the tank, the water is pumped through a second stage of filtration and then supplied to toilets, washing machines, outdoor taps, or other non-potable uses.
How much water can I save? A typical household can reduce mains water consumption by 40–50 percent by using harvested rainwater for toilet flushing, laundry, and garden irrigation. Commercial properties often achieve savings of 50–60 percent. The exact saving depends on roof area, local rainfall, and water usage patterns.
Is rainwater safe to use? Rainwater is naturally soft and free from the chemicals added to mains water. For non-potable uses such as toilet flushing, laundry, and garden irrigation, standard filtration provides water that is perfectly safe and often better quality than mains water. Potable systems with additional treatment are available for clients who want to use rainwater for drinking and cooking.
What maintenance is required? Rainwater harvesting systems are designed for low maintenance. Basic tasks include checking and cleaning filters every three to six months, inspecting the tank annually, and servicing pumps according to the manufacturer's schedule. Our maintenance packages cover all routine servicing.
Installation Questions
How long does installation take? A typical residential installation takes two to five days, depending on the complexity of the system and site conditions. Commercial installations take longer, typically one to three weeks. We always provide a detailed timeline as part of our quotation.
Do I need planning permission? Most domestic rainwater harvesting systems fall under permitted development and do not require planning permission. However, larger commercial systems or installations in conservation areas may need approval. Our team handles all necessary permissions as part of the installation process.
Can you install in an existing property? Yes, the majority of our installations are retrofits in existing properties. We are experienced at working in occupied properties and plan installations to minimise disruption. Most of our work is carried out externally, with internal connections completed quickly and tidily.
Will installation affect my garden? Underground tank installation requires excavation in your garden, but the area is fully reinstated after installation. Our team takes care to protect existing plants and landscaping during the installation process. Above-ground tanks are positioned to minimise visual impact.
Cost and Value Questions
How much does a rainwater harvesting system cost? Residential systems typically cost between £3,000 and £8,000 depending on tank size, system complexity, and property specifics. Commercial systems are quoted individually based on requirements. We provide free, no-obligation quotations after consultation.
How long until the system pays for itself? Residential systems typically achieve payback within five to ten years through water bill savings. Commercial systems often pay back in two to four years due to higher water usage and business water rates. After payback, the system continues to deliver savings for many years.
Are there any grants available? Yes, various grants and funding options are available depending on your location and circumstances. Our Check Eligibility page provides detailed information about available support. We help clients identify and apply for relevant grants.
Technical Support
My pump is making unusual noises. Unusual pump noises often indicate air in the system, a blocked inlet filter, or cavitation. First, check that the water level in the tank is sufficient and that the inlet filter is clean. If the noise persists, contact our technical support team for assistance.
The water flow from my tap is weak. Reduced flow can be caused by a clogged filter, a partially closed valve, or a pump issue. Check the filter first, as this is the most common cause. If the filter is clean, check that all valves on the supply pipework are fully open.
My tank is overflowing frequently. Frequent overflow can indicate that the tank is undersized for your roof area or that the pump is not using water as expected. Check that the pump is operating correctly and that there are no leaks in the supply pipework. If everything is working normally, the tank may be undersized for your catchment area.
How do I clean my tank? Tank cleaning should be carried out annually by a qualified professional. The process involves pumping out remaining water, removing sediment, pressure washing internal surfaces, and inspecting all components. We offer tank cleaning as part of our maintenance service.
System Monitoring Questions
How do I access my smart dashboard? Your smart dashboard is accessible through our web platform at dashboard.rainwaterdoctor.co.uk or through the Rainwater Doctor mobile app available for iOS and Android. You will receive login credentials when your system is commissioned.
What data does the smart system track? The system tracks water levels in your tank, water consumption, mains water top-up volume, pump operation, filter status, and system health. This data is displayed in real-time on your dashboard and is available for download as historical reports.
Can I get alerts on my phone? Yes, the smart system can send alerts for various conditions including low water level, pump failure, filter blockage, and unusual consumption patterns. You can configure which alerts you receive in the dashboard settings.
Contact Customer Support
If you cannot find the answer to your question in our Help Centre, our customer support team is ready to assist. We aim to respond to all enquiries within one working day. Contact us by email at support@rainwaterdoctor.co.uk, by phone at +44 20 1234 5678, or through our online contact form.
For urgent technical issues with installed systems, our technical support team operates during business hours with emergency call-out available for critical situations. Priority support is included with all maintenance packages.