First Flush Rainwater Collection Systems

One of the best things about rain water collection is that it comes to us free and clean. Unfortunately, the cleanliness is not always at a perfect level. During the very first rainfall of a storm, the water comes down clean, but it quickly picks up various contaminants. Pollen, dust, bird droppings, mold and other problematic substances are washed off rooftops and can be directly deposited into rainwater collection systems. These contaminates either settle at the bottom of the tank in the anaerobic zone or they float to the surface. In either case, they make for unpleasant odor and color and they degrade overall water quality. For this reason, we recommend using a first flush filter on your rainwater collection system. It will help ensure that you collect only the purest water during a storm.

Some people are perfectly content collecting rain water in any form. If you are more particular, consider buying a rainwater collection system with modifications to fit your needs. By adding a first flush filter or diverter, you will be able to guarantee that the water you are using is clean and safe.

Rainwater filters and first flush diverters are simple devices, but they can make all the difference. The rainwater filter is installed closest to the gutter conveyance system and gives added assurance that particles do not make their way into your water supply. This filtration process eliminates fine sediments and helps keep your diverter system clean. A first flush diverter is a slightly more complex arrangement. It usually contains a temporary storage core and a simple valve unit consisting of a ball and seat. The initial rainfall fills the core and floats the ball until it rises up to the seat, blocking the opening to the core. This means that the potentially contaminated rain stays separated from the rest of the clean water. When you choose rainwater collection systems with first flush devices installed, you will avoid catching potentially harmful rain.