Topic outline

  • Guide to Rainwater Harvesting

    Credits: 6 PDH

    PDH Course Description:

    Rainwater harvesting is an ancient technique enjoying a revival in popularity due to the inherent quality of rainwater and interest in reducing consumption of treated water. Rainwater collection has numerous benefits such as: free supply, low mineral and sodium content, reduction in non-point source pollution, and reduced demand on water utilities.

    This course introduces the basic principles of residential and small-scale commercial rainwater harvesting systems design. The design process includes choosing system components in the most cost effective and advantageous manner. It is intended to serve as a first step in consideration of the use of rainwater harvesting systems.

    This course is based on the publication, Texas Manual on Rainwater Harvesting.
    The information in this course may be useful in planning and sizing of rainwater harvesting systems.

    Topics:

    • Basic Rainwater System Components
    • Catchment Surface, Gutters, and Downspouts
    • Leaf Screens
    • First-Flush Diverters
    • Roof Washers
    • Storage Tanks
    • Pressure Tanks and Pumps
    • Treatment and Disinfection Equipment
    • Water Quality Standards
    • Factors Affecting Water Quality
    • Water Treatmen
    • Water Capturing System Capabilities
    • Rainfall Distribution and Calculating Storage Capacity
    • Estimating Water Demand
    • Rainwater Harvesting Best Management Practices
    • Building Codes
    • Cistern Design, Construction, and Capacity
    • Backflow Prevention and Dual-use Systems
    • Required Rainwater Harvesting Systems
    • Cost Estimation and Comparison
    • Financial Incentives
    • Tax Exemptions
    • Municipal Incentives
    • Rainwater Harvesting Case Studies

    To take this course:

    1.) Enroll in Course: Click below to enroll:
    (must be logged into your user account)


    2.) Study: Once enrolled, click below to begin the course:

    Download the Study Guide

    3.) Test: Once you've thoroughly read the course materials, please click below to take the final examination.

    Take the final exam

    4.) Certificate: A passing grade of 70% or higher on the exam, is required to receive the certificate of completion for this PDH course.
         NOTE: After the exam is completed, you will need to return to this page, in order to print (download) the certificate of completion.

    Print the Certificate of Completion


    Intended Audience: This course is intended for Civil, Environmental, Water Resources, and other engineers whomay require a general knowledge of water harvesting procedures.

    Publication Source: Texas Water Development Board

    Allen Hughes, PE
    • Topic 1