Have you installed a rainwater collector in your garden? Don’t forget this gesture, mandatory every 6 months!
Rainwater harvesting is allowed and even encouraged in France. However, its operation must be governed by several basic rules… In addition to the good use of the collected water, several necessary maintenance measures must also be respected, and in particular, one action should be taken every 6 months to preserve it. good condition.nails (and better to collect). Details.
Rainwater harvesting: the basic rules to follow
First of all, it should be noted that the use of rainwater collected at home is limited. It can only be used for:
- Filling the flush toilet
- Wash the floors
- Wash the laundry, subject it to appropriate treatment to ensure disinfection
- Water the garden
- To clean the car
- Wash the outer walls
On the other hand, it is forbidden to use rainwater for purposes consumer purposes (drink or food), or to wash dishes. The French administration also states that it is forbidden to use “drained rainwater a roof containing asbestos cement or lead“.
What to do every six months – and every year – with a water recovery system
It is also necessary perform regular maintenance on your device rainwater recovery, specifies a public service website. One way to guarantee your good functioningbut also prevent any risk contamination.
This is especially important if you are using water collected inside your home check the cleanliness of your device every 6 months (tank, pipes, taps, etc.) and cleaning a disinfect the storage tank every yearalso replacement of filters if necessary.
Another point: you have to keep a sanitary maintenance diary, where all operations performed on your installation are recorded. This document must include:
- Name and address of the company responsible for the maintenance, if you do not perform this maintenance yourself
- A detailed overview of your rainwater harvesting equipment
- Its commissioning
- Dates of performed checks and maintenance operations
- Monthly statement of system indices to evaluate the amount of rainwater consumed in your house connected to the waste water collection network
if you rent accommodation, you must inform the tenant of the presence of your device. Same with sales. It is also recommended to attach near the tank and “non-potable water” brand..
Rainwater collector: what are the risks if we don’t follow the rules?
What if these rules are ignored? You are in danger of an unpleasant visit from your community’s drinking water network technical representative, who are required to regularly check rainwater collection equipment. If yours does not meet these conditions, you will then be asked make the required adjustments, otherwise, the town hall could order directly attack or closing your installation.
Another risk: polluted rainwater discharged into the sewer network it can have serious consequences and pollute the entire network. According to the Public Health Act: “Damage to public works intended for the collection or delivery of water (…) is a criminal offence.” three years in prison and a fine of 45,000 euros“.