Rainwater harvesting means that rainwater from the roof no longer flows directly into the sewer system. This prevents the sewer system from overflowing and allows us to reuse the clean rainwater.
Divert rainwater
How to disconnect rainwater from the sewer system
Let the rainwater run into your garden. Rainwater is a free gift from nature. It’s a shame to just let it run off into the drains. What’s more, using rainwater is a cost-effective way to water your plants.
It also helps to prevent the sewer from becoming so full that water overflows. It has other benefits too.
- There is a lower risk of flooding and water damage. This is because the sewers become less full.
- The sewage treatment works are operating more efficiently. This is because less rainwater is entering the sewer system. Consequently, less water needs to be treated, which saves energy.
- The groundwater level is rising. This is because the rainwater seeps into the ground. This also reduces the risk of the soil becoming too dry.
- Rainwater is good for plants, trees and the natural environment in your garden.
What can you do?
If rainwater from your roof no longer flows directly into the sewer system, we call this ‘disconnection’. You must then ensure that the rainwater can be channelled elsewhere. There are two ways to do this:
- Above ground
On the page disconnecting above ground You can read how to do that here. - Underground
On the page disconnecting underground You can read how to do that here.
Which method is best for you depends on a number of factors. For example, the type of soil in your garden. And the space you have available. And the area where you want to do it.
Was your home built in 2011 or later? In that case, there’s a good chance that rainwater from your roof won’t end up in the sewer system. So you don’t need to do anything about it yourself.
Tip
It’s a good idea to collect rainwater in a rain barrel so that you can use it during dry spells. As rainwater doesn’t contain any limescale, it’s better for your plants than tap water. You can also use rainwater to wash your windows without leaving streaks!
What do we do?
We believe it is important that you play your part in preventing rainwater from entering the sewer system. That is why we are happy to help you with this. You can apply for a grant to disconnect your property from the sewer system. You can apply for the grant via the page subsidy for rainwater harvesting. You can also find out what the conditions are there. For example, which areas of Apeldoorn the grant applies to.
More useful tips
There are many ways to make your home more resilient to climate change. Would you like to know what else you can do? Then take a look at the page ‘What can you do yourself? Tips and inspiration’.
More information
Do you have any questions? Or would you like more information? Please send us an email
Email: regenwater@apeldoorn.nl
Would you like to find out more?
You can find more information about collecting rainwater in the garden on the RIONED Foundation’s website.
Go to the RIONED Foundation