In a country where water scarcity is a constant concern, rainwater serves as a vital resource for many Australians. However, despite its appealing taste and the allure of 'raw water' trends, consuming untreated rainwater poses serious health risks.
Contrary to popular belief, rainwater isn't inherently pure. Studies show that microbial levels in tank-collected rainwater exceed those in urban tap water. Chemical contamination is also a concern, especially in areas near heavy industry or high traffic zones.
Rainwater harbours various harmful contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Insects and wildlife further contribute to its potential hazards. Considering that bacteria proliferates in moist and warm environments it has the tendency to turn your tank into a bacterial breeding ground. You simply cannot tell what potentially harmful microscopic contaminants could be lurking in your tank water (even after filtering the water with carbon) – and you certainly don’t want to be drinking it!
UV Water Sanitation is by far the most important filtration process when it comes to rainwater treatment. Ultraviolet sanitation works by breaking down the cell wall of micro-organisms (bacteria, parasites, viruses, fungi & yeast), allowing oxidation to occur which in turn prevents the microbe from multiplying until it is finally eradicated. Ultraviolet filtration is a chemical-free solution to water sanitation, creating no by-products in the water, and is recommended by the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines as a safe, effective and chemical-free water disinfection technique.
