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Retrofitting Rainwater Harvesting: Thinking It Through


Rainwater harvesting is a highly achievable, vital upgrade for almost any building. While many suppliers overlook existing properties, we break down those barriers by providing the specialized advice, tailored assistance, and practical solutions you need to seamlessly transition to self-sufficiency.

To ensure a smooth and successful installation, we help you strategically optimize your existing layout:

  • Flexible Tank Placement: Instead of disruptive, deep excavation for traditional underground tanks, retrofitting opens the door to flexible, innovative placement options that work around your current grounds.

  • Optimized Drainage: Adjusting pipework to separate roof runoff from other water sources ensures your system operates at peak efficiency, delivering the cleanest possible water.

  • Targeted Plumbing Upgrades: Minor, straightforward modifications to your downpipes or internal plumbing will cleanly connect your roof directly to your new, independent water supply.


Ready to get started? Explore our
dedicated information sheet on harvesting rainwater from existing properties for deeper insights.


Rainwater harvesting from existing properties - download


Above-Ground Storage & Filtration

Opting for above-ground storage is often the most practical and efficient approach for a retrofit, bypassing major excavation while keeping installation straightforward.

Smart Tank Placement & Storage

External tanks are an excellent option and should be positioned near the building, close to at least one rainwater downpipe.

  • Space-Saving Solutions: If space is at a premium, slimline tanks offer a sleek, low-profile footprint.

  • Scalable Capacity: Multiple slimline tanks can easily be linked together to increase your overall storage capacity as needed.

High-Efficiency Filtration

Collecting clean water from an existing roof is simple with a high-performance downpipe filter.

  • Residential & Light Commercial: The filter seamlessly replaces a small section of your existing downpipe, filtering and diverting water as it flows.

  • Large Commercial: For properties with larger 110mm or 160mm pipes, advanced Vortex filters can be securely wall-mounted using a specialized bracket.

System Components & Controls

While the storage tank sits outside, key electrical components are housed safely indoors to protect them from the elements. This includes the mains water top-up unit, which is mounted above the tank's maximum water level to allow for a reliable gravity feed.

  • Standard Setup: A clean, simple arrangement utilizing a separate pump and mains water top-up unit.

  • The All-In-One Alternative: For a more streamlined footprint, our WRAS-approved Sigma unit combines the pump, mains water backup, and our intelligent Smart Zeta controller into one elegant, compact system.