Why Rainwater Harvesting?

Rainwater harvesting offers two key advantages: consistent water quality and greater control over supply. Collected rainwater is naturally low in total dissolved solids and free from many contaminants found in groundwater. Storing it on-site creates a local reserve that remains available during utility restrictions or well drawdowns, dependent only on rainfall and storage capacity.

Water quality

Groundwater quality in Texas can vary widely by region and is increasingly affected by salinity, mineral buildup, and potential contamination from surrounding land uses. Rainwater provides a more consistent and naturally clean source for capture and use.

Control of supply

On-site rainwater storage provides independence from aquifer drawdowns and municipal restrictions. You control your own supply and maintain flexibility even as others over-pump or face shortages.

Scalable and modular

Systems can be installed in stages, starting with non-potable uses and expanded over time by adding tanks or collection area as demand increases.

Texas context: Rule of Capture

Texas follows the Rule of Capture: generally, groundwater under your land can be pumped even if a neighbor’s well is affected. Local groundwater districts may set rules, but the baseline doctrine shapes how aquifers are used across the state. Rainwater harvesting adds a surface-based supply that does not draw down shared groundwater.

Wells versus rainwater

Deep wells can be costly

In parts of Central Texas, wells can reach 1,000 feet. Total project costs for drilling, casing, pump, power, and treatment can exceed $100k. Results are not guaranteed: yield and quality vary by location and aquifer.

Rainwater is predictable at the roof

  • Capture is a function of roof area, rainfall, and efficiency
  • Storage can be sized to bridge dry months and meet goals
  • Quality is consistent with proper screening, filtration, and disinfection for potable uses
  • Energy needs are typically modest compared to deep-well pumping

Both options require design and maintenance. Many properties use a mix: rainwater for non-potable and municipal or well water as backup, or rainwater as primary with a backup connection for extended droughts.

Explore your site’s potential

Enter your address, roof area, and typical monthly use to see a data-driven recommendation.

Open the Calculator