6 tips for using and dealing with rainwater in small homes

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As people become more aware of their impact on the environment, they are seeking out new ways to make their homes more energy efficient and eco-friendly. This doesn't only benefit the earth though, it's also great for your budget, as non-traditional methods of saving power and water cut your bills down, making your home more self-sufficient. That's why today we're looking at some different ways you can use rainwater in your home.

We're always looking for clever tricks like these that make the most of your surroundings, converting natural resources like sunlight and water into practical solutions, or else harnessing their natural qualities to beautify your home. Some of these ideas may seem obvious, while others may never have occurred to you, but when you live in a rainy environment like Malaysia it makes sense to use it to your own advantage, so join us as we explore these innovative concepts, and you'll make your home as gorgeous as it is efficient!

1. Don't cover the garden in concrete

Concrete paths and tiles are a great addition to the garden, making them more practical and beautiful, but you have to be careful not to cover too much of the ground in concrete. If you do water will pool and stagnate, which leads to foul odours, and ideal conditions for mosquitoes. If you do have a lot of concrete in your garden be sure to clear the water away after a heavy rain, but otherwise try to ensure that all runoff either leads to plants, drainage, or one of the ideas below.

2. Convert rainwater into energy

The Pluvia system was designed in Mexico, and uses the stream of rainwater runoff from rooftop gutters to spin a microturbine in a cylindrical housing. Electricity generated by that turbine is used to charge 12-volt batteries, which can in turn be used to power LED lamps or other small household appliances, perfect for setting up a stereo and some ambient lights around a spa pool! This is a relatively simple and fun project; it's a great way to teach the kids about science, and save a little money along the way.

3. The Indonesian biopori

A popular idea among green-minded people in Indonesia is the biopori, a narrow hole bored into the ground about 10cm across and 1m deep, which is filled with organic matter like food scraps and garden waste. This encourages root and worm activity and increases the quality of the soil, as well as its ability to absorb rain water. This is particularly beneficial in tropical climates like Malaysia's, where heavy rains can lead to flooding.

4. Plant trees

homify Jardines modernos: Ideas, imágenes y decoración

You can never have too many trees in your garden, but this is especially true if you're dealing with excess rainwater. Tree roots will absorb water, and convert it into energy, acting as a natural drainage system. In fact many floods are caused by deforestation, which allows water to continue flowing through the soil and into towns, so protect your home's foundations by planting plenty of greenery.

5. Your very own fish pond

エクステリア&和庭リフォーム 埼玉県さいたま市, NOD GARDEN NOD GARDEN Jardines asiáticos

There's something incredibly relaxing about watching fish swim around a pond, and according to Feng Shui they also bring good fortune. But don't worry about spending a ton of money on your water bill, instead use rainwater. It's as simple as collecting rainwater from the gutters in containers, and then sending that water through a filtration system that leads to the pond. Surround the pond with a few plants or bonsai trees, and you have a beautiful and tranquil water feature!

6. Build a reservoir

エクステリア&和庭リフォーム 埼玉県さいたま市, NOD GARDEN NOD GARDEN Jardines asiáticos

The easiest solution of all is to build a reservoir pond to collect rainwater. When water becomes scarce this reservoir can be used for washing dishes and cleaning clothes, just remember if you want to drink it you will need to buy a filter from a hardware store.

And with those handy tips you're ready for the rainy season! For more great garden inspiration, check out these stunning spa pools!

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