System reduces water bills by over 50%

Hazelton Homes is said to be the first new homes developer in the Midlands to install a specific rainwater harvesting system, which stores rainfall and reduces water bills, whilst protecting the environment.

Known as the Rainman Standard T, the system has been installed on eleven homes at the company's Brooklands development in Little Bowden, near Market Harborough. 

The system captures rainwater from roofs, which collects in an underground tank in the garden. The recycled water can then be used to flush the toilet, run a washing machine, wash the car and water the garden.

The system claims to save over 50% on domestic water bills, but there are environmental benefits too.  Because the water is stored in a tank, water volume to sewers is decreased and stormwater run off is reduced, which can help to solve the risk of flooding. Not only is the company pioneering rainwater harvesting locally, but Hazelton Homes are one of the only developers in the UK to make a commitment to installing multiple units, supplied by Freewater UK Ltd.

Hazelton Homes' commercial director, Richard Hazelton, explains: "Flushing the toilet alone uses one third of domestic water.  This system can save this by using a naturally available resource, which can considerably reduce the homeowner's annual water bill.

"Apart from reducing the environmental strain for more water, the silent system is very easy to use, with almost no maintenance required.  It's also virtually unnoticeable, as the tank is hidden beneath the garden and most pipe work is concealed during build stage."

Richard also says that the company is looking at more environmental measures on future developments, including an 'Eco' house.

The units, installed to all detached four and five/six bedroom homes, collect rainwater from the roof via guttering and down pipes.  A roof pipe then feeds the water into a two-stage filter in the tank, after which, the water complies with the European Water Standard.

A pressurised pipe from the tank, which can hold 4,700 litres, delivers the water to the home and connects to a control panel, normally housed in the utility room.  Pipes from here lead to the specific area of use, be it a washing machine, toilet or outside tap.

More information: www.hazeltonhomes.com and www.freewateruk.co.uk/