Intelligent and sustainable solutions for single family homes
Water scarcity is a serious problem in modern times, especially for people living in cities. People who live in apartments or houses often believe that the use of rainwater is only possible in large houses or those with a lot of land. In fact, collecting rainwater on the balcony is a simple, economical and environmentally friendly method to save hundreds of liters of water every year.
This article explains how to collect rainwater from a balcony, how to do it, what advantages it offers, what materials are needed, and what mistakes are commonly made.
rainwater harvesting
Rainwater harvesting involves collecting rainwater and treating it for later use. With urban populations growing and water scarcity looming, rainwater harvesting is no longer an option but a necessity. People who live in apartments often think they don’t do much to save water, but in reality, even a small balcony can be an effective way to collect rainwater.
First, you need to understand the structure of your balcony. Rainwater that falls on your balcony flows in one direction, usually into a corner or a drain. If you can collect the rainwater there, you can drain it without making any major modifications.
Where can I use it ?
- Watering plants
- Vacuuming floors
- Flushing toilets
- Washing cars and bicycles
Rainwater collected on your balcony is very beneficial for your plants. It is naturally softened and chemical free, promoting root growth. Regularly watering your plants with rainwater promotes plant growth and maintains healthy soil. Therefore, balcony gardening and rainwater harvesting complement each other.
Why is it important to collect rainwater on your balcony ?
In urban areas:
- Limited water availability
- High water bills
- Low groundwater level
Harvesting rainwater on your balcony is not only beneficial for the environment but also a smart way to meet your family’s needs. The most important reasons to collect rainwater from your balcony:
- Ideal for small areas
- Low installation costs
- Environmental protection
Rainwater that falls on your balcony often goes to waste or ends up in the drain, but it can actually be used to water your plants, clean your home, and for other non potable purposes. It’s important to note that installing a rainwater harvesting system on your balcony doesn’t require extensive construction or huge costs. With a little planning and ingenuity, it’s easy to set up.
How to collect rainwater on your balcony ?
Step 1 : Determine the water flow direction on your balcony
- First, consider the following:
- Where does the rainwater collect on your balcony?
- In which direction does the water flow?
- This determines where the collection pipe or tank should be installed.
Step 2 : Materials Needed
Basic Equipment:
- PVC pipe or flexible hose
- Water container (barrel/bucket/tank)
- Sifting filter
- Charcoal, sand, or gravel (for the filter)
- Container with lid
Step 3 : Setting up a rainwater harvesting system
Method 1 : Direct container method
Let rainwater flow directly from your porch into a barrel.
Install a filter/strainer over the barrel.
Method 2 : Funnel and pipe method
Install a funnel at the point where you want the water to drain.
Connect the funnel to the barrel using pipes.
Step 4 : Water Filtration System
A simple three layer filter:
Top layer: Gravel
Middle layer: Sand
Bottom layer: Activated carbon
Dirt
The filtered water is ready to use.
What can you use rainwater from your balcony for ?
Safe and convenient options:
- Watering plants
- Cleaning floors and balconies
- Washing your car
- Cleaning the toilet
- Rainwater is only safe to drink if it has been treated with a high performance filtration system.
The first step in collecting rainwater is to use a simple garden hose or gutter to funnel it into a container. Choosing the right container for your balcony is crucial. In large apartments, buckets, plastic containers, and lidded plastic containers work well. In small apartments, tall, vertical containers are ideal. A lid is essential to prevent insects from entering and keep the water clean. This way, you can collect rainwater without dirtying your balcony.
We recommend filtering rainwater before using it. Rainwater that falls on your balcony may contain dust, fallen leaves, and bird droppings. A simple mesh filter, fabric filter, or a small filter filled with activated carbon and sand is sufficient. This simple system will improve the water quality and make it drinkable.
Rainwater can be used not only for watering plants, but also for everyday tasks such as mopping floors, cleaning the balcony, and washing the car. This reduces dependence on water trucks and tap water. This practice gradually raises awareness of the importance of water conservation and embeds this concept in all aspects of family life.
Collecting rainwater on a balcony is more than a simple act. It symbolizes a lifestyle change. It teaches us to value resources and take positive action through simple actions. Seeing rainwater collected at home gradually fosters a sense of responsibility for natural resources.
Benefits of Rainwater Harvesting on Your Balcony
Environmental Benefits
- Water Savings
- Groundwater Recharge
- Reduced Flooding and Puddles
Personal Benefits
- 20–30% Reduction in Water Costs
- Promotes Plant Growth
- Eco-Friendly Lifestyle
Ideal for apartments
- Installation possible without structural alterations
- Space saving
- Cost effective
Common Mistakes When Collecting Rainwater on Your Balcony
- Collecting water without a filter
- Using a container with an open lid
- Not using insect repellent
- Not cleaning regularly
Solutions:
- Container with a lid
- Monthly cleaning
- Mesh filters and activated carbon filters
Maintenance Tips (How to care for your system)
- Clean the filter before it rains.
- Clean the housing every 15–20 days.
- Remove any debris from the filter.
- Check the entire system after the rainy season.
Is it allowed in apartments ?
In most cases: Portable systems are permitted. Speak with your property management company before carrying out any permanent excavation work.
Tips for Beginners
- Start with a small barrel (50–100 liters).
- Use it only for plants at first.
- Build your own home irrigation system.
- Inexpensive filters are available online.
FAQ – Collecting Rainwater from Your Balcony
Question 1: Is this possible in a small apartment?
Yes, it’s possible on a balcony measuring 120 cm x 180 cm.
Question 2: How much water can the collection container hold?
In heavy rain, it holds 50–200 liters.
Question 3: Can mosquitoes breed in it?
No, as long as you have a roof covering and a mosquito net, this isn’t a problem.
Summary
Collecting rainwater on your balcony is therefore not just a trend, but a necessity for the future. It’s not just about reducing water consumption, but also about being a responsible citizen. If every apartment had a small rainwater harvesting system, we could save millions of liters of water. Get started today from a small balcony to a major transformation.
Ultimately, collecting rainwater on a balcony shows that environmental protection does not require vast tracts of land or rural areas. Even if you live in a high rise building in the city, you can live in harmony with nature. Even a small balcony can make a big step toward water conservation with a little care and effort.