Operating costs for a rainwater system can be less. Rainwater collection systems designed to supplement the water needs of a home already on the city system for irrigation purposes can be costly. In our area, the cistern size for irrigation can be large due to the high temperatures and extended dry periods in the summer. If the system is not counted upon as the only source of irrigating water, building as large a cistern as one can afford is often the measuring gauge for cistern size. Commercial Status Implementation Issues Sustainable Sources 1994-2000.
Rainwater harvesting is an old tradition practiced in all parts of the world including Texas.
Suitable roof and gutter materials are common products in our region. System designers and installers are present locally. Rainwater harvesting systems are costly compared to a city hookup. Compared to a well, they are equal or, likely, greater in cost. Appraisers may not properly value a rainwater harvesting system and underwriters may not accept this system as the sole source of household water.