 The benefit of one larger unit is that it can be easier to maintain than a series of smaller diverters installed at each downpipe.
The first flush of water from the roof can contain amounts of bacteria from decomposed insects, bird and animal droppings and concentrated tannic acid. It may also contain pollen, water borne heavy metals and chemical residues, all of which are undesirable elements to have in a water storage system. Rain Harvesting's range of First Flush Water Diverters (or Roof Washers) capture the first most contaminated rainwater from the roof and gutters, automatically diverting the subsequent cleaner rainwater to the storage tank.
Diverts approximately 6 gallons per foot of 12" pipe.
Requires a section of 12' PVC pipe which can be purchased online or at a local plumbing supply.
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Diversion Recommendations for the Roof |
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Minimal Pollution: divert 0.0125 gallons per square foot of roof area
Open field, no trees, no bird droppings, clean environment
Substantial Pollution: divert 0.05 gallons per square foot of roof area
Leaves and debris, bird droppings, various animal matter, e.g. dead insects, lizards, etc.
Example for a minimal polluted roof of 1,000 square feet:
1000 square feet X 0.0125 = 12.5 gallons to be diverted
Example for a heavily polluted roof of 1000 square feet:
1000 square feet X 0.05 = 50 gallons to be diverted |
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PVC Pipe Specifications |
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3" Downspout diverters: Use 3" Schedule 40 PVC
(not sewer and drain pipe)
Storage capacity: Each 3 foot section of 3" PVC holds approximately 1.1 gallons of water (0.3840341 gal/ft)
4" Downspout diverters: Use 4" Schedule 40 PVC
(not sewer and drain pipe)
Storage capacity: Each 3 foot length of 4" PVC holds approximately 2 gallons of water. (0.661312 gal/ft)
12" First flush diverters: Use 12" Schedule 40 PVC
Storage capacity: Each foot of 12" PVC holds approximately 6 gallons of water. (5.81463286 gal/ft) |
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