Rainwater System Success Story

Learn how a rainwater harvesting system is making a difference in Seattle residential landscapes. This success story highlights the performance, benefits, and citywide value of our rainwater harvesting system—addressing incentives, measurable outcomes, and next steps for homeowners and decision-makers. Follow this guide to understand best practices for design, installation, and long-term community sustainability.

Property Type & Description

Property Type: Single-family residence

Site Description: Beautiful mature garden area in a masonry structure at the front of the house, complemented by a well-established backyard vegetable garden. The site includes established garden beds, walkways, and unique landscape features that make it ideal for integrated rainwater harvesting.

Photo Reference

Backyard: 400-gallon Secondary Rain Tank (Non-Incentive)
Backyard: 400-gallon Secondary Rain Tank
(Non-Incentive)
Front Yard: 450-gallon Raindrop Tank (RainWise Incentive) RainWise Incentive
Front Yard: 450-gallon Raindrop Tank
(RainWise Incentive)
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Roof Size & Rainfall Context

Stylish Rainwater Tank Nestled in a Compact Space

Total Roof Area: 1,011 sq. ft.

Typical Seasonal Rainfall:
November–March: 11,500 gallons April–October: 9,000 gallons

Source of Measurement: Satellite imagery, confirmed by ground-level roof outline measurement.

Purpose of System

  • Stormwater management
  • Irrigation / water offset
  • Convenience
  • Environmental sustainability
  • Utility and cost savings
  • Water security
  • Civic pride
Rainwater System Example

System Value: This rainwater system improves drainage, provides a convenient supplementary water source for outdoor use, and reduces water consumption by supplying low-pressure water to established garden areas.

Designing a Rainwater System for Real Life

Two rainwater tanks were chosen for distinct benefits: the vertical Chem-Tainer fits the back deck perfectly, while the RT375 Raindrop offers high capacity with low height—both support sustainability, aesthetics, and water security.

“Adding both tanks gave us the confidence that our gardens and landscape would thrive all year, no matter the weather. The visibility from our living spaces turned our rainwater system into an everyday reminder of our commitment to sustainability.”
Chem-Tainer 500-Gallon Rainwater Tank

Chem-Tainer 500-Gallon Vertical Tank

  • Capacity: 500 gallons
  • Dimensions: 66" H × 42" D
  • Fits conveniently on deck
  • Heavy-duty polyevinilene construction
  • UV stabilized & food grade
  • Antifreeze & corrosion-resistant
RT375 Raindrop Tank

RT375 Raindrop 450-Gallon Tank

  • Capacity: 450 gallons
  • Dimensions: 48" H × 72" L × 32" D
  • Low profile, high volume
  • Multi-lid port access
  • Fits spaces with limited vertical clearance
  • Ideal for landscape integration
Feature Chem-Tainer 500-Gal RT375 Raindrop 450-Gal
Capacity 500 gallons 450 gallons
Dimensions 66" H × 42" D 48" H × 72" L × 32" D
Profile Tall, vertical Low, horizontal
Unique Features Food grade, antifreeze Multi-port, easy integration

Incentive Program

  • RainWise Rebate (Seattle Public Utilities)
  • Incentive / Rebate Amount: $5,500+
  • Eligibility for additional Green Stormwater Mini-Grant
  • Supplied storage isn’t just offsetting cost per cubic ton—Mother Nature’s low pressure method delivers supplemental water right where it’s needed for your landscape.
RainWise Stormwater Incentive Project Example

Homeowner Goals & Inspiration

  • Inspired to participate by city outreach promoting the RainWise incentive program.
  • Motivated by civic pride, environmental stewardship, and a desire to contribute to local sustainability.
  • Sought to access valuable rebates and lower long-term utility costs.
  • Recently retired and wanted to take on impactful outdoor improvement projects.
  • Aimed to expand backyard vegetable gardens and support mature landscaping with reliable supplemental water.
  • Intended to set an example for neighbors and encourage wider adoption of sustainable water practices in Seattle.

System Overview

  • Maximizes sustainable water capture, storage, and distribution for both front and backyard gardens.
  • High-capacity, low-profile tanks collect runoff from 1,011 sq. ft. of roof area.
  • Filtered rainwater is delivered via gravity-fed, low-pressure hose connections—no grid power needed.
  • System supports both ornamental and edible landscaping, boosting water security and reducing reliance on municipal supply.
  • Components designed for long service life, simple maintenance, and easy integration with existing site aesthetics.
  • Fully replicable for urban and suburban properties.

This system provides year-round benefits, enabling gardens to thrive and demonstrating a sustainable water model for the community.

Connections & Layout

  • Rooftop rain runoff is redirected by dedicated 3-inch piping from two locations: east side flow is routed to the west, and west side flow is directed efficiently to the top of the rain tank.
  • PVC piping connects the roof outlets to tank inlets securely, minimizing water loss and debris entry.
  • Each tank features a gravity-fed hose bib for easy garden watering.
  • Tank locations maximize storage efficiency while keeping connections accessible for annual maintenance.
  • Layout supports both front and backyard irrigation zones.

Mounting, Enclosure & Elevation

  • Tanks are securely mounted on reinforced concrete pads to ensure stability year-round.
  • Utility enclosures and privacy screens blend with existing landscape architecture.
  • Elevation of tank bases facilitates uninterrupted gravity flow and low-pressure delivery to all garden beds.
  • Each enclosure is ventilated to prevent excess moisture buildup and extends system lifespan.
  • Installations comply with local code and minimize visual impact for neighbors and passersby.

RainWise Sizing & Rebate Form

This project’s rebate eligibility, sizing calculations, and all site-specific design criteria are documented directly in the official RainWise Sizing & Rebate Calculator form . 📄

  • Contractor Name: Product Water LLC
  • Client Name:
  • Project Address:
  • Contributing Roof Area: 1,505 sq. ft. (project manages 961 sq. ft. to program targets)
  • Tank Type & Volume: RainDrop RTU 450 (409 gal live storage)
  • Annual Volume Managed: 8,000 gal/year
  • Total Rebate Awarded: $5,842
  • Compliance: Meets or exceeds all RainWise sizing and eligibility requirements (see original form for details).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a rainwater harvesting system? A system designed to capture, store, and reuse rainwater from your roof for outdoor irrigation and landscape use.
How much rainwater can this system collect each year? Over 20,000 gallons annually from a 1,011 sq. ft. roof, based on local rainfall.
What are the benefits for homeowners? Reduced utility bills, robust gardens, added water security, and eligibility for valuable incentives/rebates.
Is it difficult to maintain a rainwater system? No; annual checks for debris, tank integrity, and hose bibs are typically all that’s required.
Are there rebates or incentives available for installation? Yes! Eligible homes can receive rebates through programs like RainWise and Green Stormwater Mini-Grants.
How is rainwater delivered to gardens? Water travels via gravity-fed hose bibs to both front and backyard gardens, requiring no electricity.
Can this be scaled to other homes or neighborhoods? Absolutely. This model is fully replicable and scalable to both individual properties and city-wide programs.
What are the installation requirements? A sound roof, eligible gutter/downspout access, and space for above-ground tanks—consultation provided for site-specific needs.
Does rainwater harvesting help prevent flooding? Yes, by intercepting runoff and reducing flow to storm sewers, these systems help mitigate local flooding and erosion.
How do I get started or learn if my home qualifies? Use our short survey or contact form to see if your property is eligible for a rebate or free site assessment.
😊SUSTAINABLE!

WATER YOU WAITING FOR

TIME TO GET STARTED

Let’s get your project rolling:

Call: 206-450-0231 or Email: [email protected]