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Connecting Two Rainwater Tanks

April 28, 2014 @ 20:13 By Gavin Webber 13 Comments

One of my goals for the year was to buy and install a third rainwater tank.  After a few good months of saving, I had enough to call up the tank manufacturer in Ballarat and order one.

We got it delivered a week before Easter, so as it was raining, I thought it best to connect it right there and then.  The connection was a shocking job, and I rushed it.  So I decided to redo it over the weekend.

Connecting two rainwater tanks

The new tank is on the left.  Don’t ask me why we ordered a different colour.  Okay, I will confess.  During the ordering process, Kim and I were convinced that the original tank was the light green colour, and as it was dark and cold we didn’t bother to check.  Our bad, but not to worry because it still holds water and that is the main thing, isn’t it?

So on to the connecting business.

The dark green tank was already connected through to the irrigation systems, so I disconnected it all.

IMG_0517

I have seen some people connect the tanks at the top through the storm water drain outlet, and this does work, however the light green tank is slightly higher than the original tank, so this method would not have worked (water doesn’t run up hill).

The only option I had was to connect at the bottom via two taps and some pipe.

Two taps and the irrigation pipe

I drilled a whole in the bottom, through the threaded hole, with a 22 mm spade bit.  The hole is 25 mm, so the smaller spade bit ensures that you don’t strip the thread away.  It is a fairly simple exercise, because there is a small guide hole for the tip of the spade bit.  I removed as much of the plastic waste as possible back through the hole.  I then lined the thread with teflon plumbing tape to stop any potential leaks via the thread, and screwed in the tap.

I then fitted a reducing thread to get it down to a workable 20 mm, which is the right size for most garden fittings.

IMG_0519

With more teflon tape, it was ready to connect to the original tank.  Note; the water on the ground is from when I disconnected the two tanks to make these modifications.

IMG_0521

Then I had to work out a way to balance the two tanks without all the water going into the garden.  I found an old tap in my box of tricks.  I think I recovered this when I unplumbed the original irrigation system when we first moved in.  I keep most things like this, because a) they are expensive to buy, and b) you never know when you are going to need one!  I fitted a T-piece that had a 20 mm thread, with two 19 mm barbs.

IMG_0523

Then I pushed in two pieces of 19 mm poly pipe and clamped them.  I then measured the correct length for each pipe, then cut and connected to two 20 mm threads with barbs and clamped again.

It all lined up perfectly.  As you can see above, with the main line tap off, and the two tank taps on, it balances the water from the dark green tank to the light green one on the left.  The dark green tank is the one fed from the gutter, as I have only fitted one down pipe from the gutter.

Connecting two rainwater tanks

This is just simply magical.  The yellow tap stops the water flowing down the main-line when balancing the water.

Just one word of caution.  This is not pressure pipe and should not be used for normal plumbing installations, as it may burst.  The water in the tanks is not under pressure, so this is a fairly safe setup.  Besides, when not in use, I turn off both taps on each tank.  I have only been balancing the tanks when it has been raining to avoid any issues.  If, some time in the future that I wanted to plumb this into the toilets or laundry, I would use a plumber, who would use the correct pipe.

So there you have it.  Two connected tanks, we have increased our water storage capacity by another 2100 litres, and not a leak in sight.  I am very pleased with my efforts.

As with any project, if I can do it, anyone can! Connecting two rainwater tanks is easy. Now I have to figure out how to reconnect all those small water barrels back into the system. I better get my thinking cap on.

Can anyone think of a good use for small 100 litre water barrels?

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Filed Under: Rain, Sustainable Living, water, Water harvesting

Melton Library and Learning Hub – Green Building

April 25, 2014 @ 22:01 By Gavin Webber 10 Comments

Recently Kim, Ben, Pam, and I had the pleasure of a guided tour of the Melton Library and Learning Hub provided by the city’s Sustainability Officer, Kellie Hack.  The Melton Library and Learning Hub is located at 31 McKenzie St, Melton.

I love libraries.  Always have, always will.  The books within them help me learn new things about sustainable living, and when I started to green up my lifestyle I used our local library extensively.  It saved me so much money!

So I was very interested in visiting our new one because our library has been given a 5 star green star accreditation, which means that it is one of the most environmentally sustainable buildings in Australia!  Very cool, and all in my town.

Melton Library and Learning Hub reception

Melton Library and Learning Hub reception

Let me attempt to regurgitate some of the interesting facts that Kellie pointed out to us as we walked around.

The vast wall of glass at the front of the building is all double glazed.  This not only keeps the noise as there is a busy road way just out front, but in summer, it keeps the heat outside and in winter it keeps the heat inside.

All outside landscaping is native flora, which means that it doesn’t require much rainfall.

Cafe in the library

Cafe in the library

The cafe serves very nice coffee, which I believe was rainforest alliance.  All the wood you see is FSC accredited from a local supplier in Victoria, and much of it is recycled.  The wood throughout looks fantastic.

The timber from the old library (that they knocked down and replaced with this one) was used during the construction of the concrete formwork. Speaking of disposal, during the demolition of the old library, 92% of the waste materials was recycled.

Stairway to second level

Stairway to second level

The library is on two levels, with meeting rooms on both floors, including an 77 seat auditorium with video conferencing facilities.

The ventilation is underfloor, so all of the air moves naturally upwards.  There are no high-speed fans required, and the air is purged via upper floor windows at night.  Kellie told us that there are CO2 sensors throughout the building that adjust the flow of air so no one gets sleepy in the afternoon.  If you do, you had too many carbs for lunch!

Ventilation windows that are remotely controlled

Ventilation skylight windows that are remotely controlled for purging air at night

All lighting throughout changes with outdoor light levels via sensors fitted to the lighting array.  That way, the lights dim if it is bright outside, which in turn lowers electricity usage.  The fluros are T5 which are energy-efficient.  60% of the building is lit with natural lighting.

Now if the glare gets too much, there are automated blinds that can be raised and lowered during the day.  There is a massive pergola at the front of the building which blocks summer light from shining on the windows, and lets in light during winter.

The concrete, which is normally one of the most energy intensive materials used during construction of a building, is also green.  They used 40% less cement during construction, and in a worlds first, the structural concrete panels were made from e-crete™.  This brand of concrete has no Portland cement in the mix.  Portland cement production is very greenhouse gas intensive, so it is great that these panels have none.

Structural e-crete panels at the rear of the library

Structural e-crete panels at the rear of the library

Behind that wooden wall are massive rainwater tanks that collect water from the roof.  The rainwater is used to flush toilets and to irrigate the surrounding landscaping.

On the roof are 80 solar panels that provided electricity for the building and there is 130m² of solar hot water panels for the rest rooms and kitchens.  Kellie mentioned that there are screens throughout the library that display energy and water statistics from the building sensors, so that the public can see how much electricity is being generated, or water being saved and stored in the tanks.  It is a good way to show off the eco features without being to in-your-face.

Now for the internal library type features.

Mills and Boone area

Mills and Boon area

There is a dedicated Mills & Boon escapism romance section for those interested, with matching pink chairs!

There is a gaming area for kids, which I believe have Xbox, Playstation, etc.

IMG_0451

There are drinking fountains throughout the building, and no bottled water or vending machines.  This was designed this way on purpose.

Ben at the drinking fountain

Ben at the drinking fountain

There are the usual internet facilities, and wi-fi for free.  The book collections are extensive.  I borrowed five books about blogging which have helped me design my blogging course (happening Wednesday 30th April).  Usually there are limited titles that are up to date, but I was pleasantly surprised.

Besides the great books, free internet, lots of meeting rooms etc., another great feature is that this building is centrally located in the middle of town.  It is a couple of minutes walk from the bus terminal, there are bike racks out the back, and if you really feel the need to drive, there is limited car parking (design feature to encourage other modes of transport).  Ben and I will now be able to ride down here and safely lock our bikes up.

Bike racks out the back

Bike racks out the back

The furniture inside the building has up to 40% recycled content.  They were built under strict guidelines to ensure that it was produced with low or no formaldehyde.  All the paints, carpets, and furniture are low in volatile organic compounds (VOC).  VOC’s are particularly troublesome for people with respiratory conditions such as asthma.  The carpet squares are made from recycled material, and when worn are sent back to the manufacturer to be recycled again.

Low VOC furniture and fittings

Low VOC furniture and fittings (second level)

Finally, there are recycle bins out front and back.  The paper is separate from the mixed container bin (plastic, glass, and metal).  The kitchens also have organic waste bins, the contents are turned into compost.

Recycle Bins at the library

Recycle Bins at the library

What do I think of our library and learning hub?  I believe that is was $20 million well spent, and is an asset to the city.  Not only is it the greenest building in town, it has a warm feeling about it.  Some place that you really want to visit and spend a bit of time in.

If you are ever in our city, please drop by and check out the Melton Library and Learning Hub.  You will not be disappointed.

To finish off, here is a video that recaps the 5 star features of the building.

Hopefully I haven’t missed out too much, but I would just like to thank Kellie for our guided tour.  She was extremely knowledgeable about all the features, and is a very friendly person, which made the tour all that much better.  It was a lot to take in, and I hope I did you proud.

So dear reader, do you have any green public buildings in your town or city?  What do you think of them?  Are they nice places to visit?

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Filed Under: Books, Bottled water, Carbon Dioxide, compost, energy efficiency, Libraries, recycle, solar hot water, Solar Power, Sustainable Living, waste, Water harvesting

Green Quick Tips – Cooking, Chickens, and Rainwater Harvesting

January 28, 2014 @ 22:29 By Gavin Webber 2 Comments

Oh the joy of recording in 40°C heat!  I wonder if I should record an episode on how to minimize perspiration naturally!  Sounds like a plan.

Not that I am complaining, as I do enjoy researching and producing these green quick tips to share with you.  You may have noticed that there was no episode produced on Monday just past.  It was the Australia Day holiday here Down Under, so I took the day off.  Mind you, I was sick as well, so that did not help.  Much better now.

So on with the show.  Here are the three latest episodes;

Episode Nine; Green Quick Tips for Keeping Backyard Chickens. A subject dear to my heart. I have a flock of 9 hens that keep me flush with free range eggs, keep my garden fertilized, and keep my veggie patch weed seed and pest free. What is not to like about backyard chooks!

Episode Ten; Green Quick Tips for Harvesting Rainwater. Saving water is easy when you collect your own in rainwater barrels, cisterns, or rainwater tanks. Whatever you call them, it saves you money in the long run and allows you to grow much of your own food for free!



Episode Eleven; Green Quick Tips for Energy Smart Cooking. Want to save energy in the kitchen? This episode discusses the pros and cons of using electricity or natural gas to cook your food, including tips to save you money which ever method you choose.


For those of you who want to directly download visit the podcast web site at ggqt.podbean.com

Also, you can now subscribe using the buttons below.  

Until next time, stay keen and go green!

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Filed Under: Chickens, Cooking, Green Quick Tips, Podcast, Water harvesting

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About Gavin Webber

About Gavin Webber

An Ordinary Australian Man Who Has A Green Epiphany Whilst Watching A Documentary, Gets a Hybrid Car, Plants A Large Organic Vegetable Garden, Goes Totally Solar, Lowers Consumption, Feeds Composts Bins and Worms, Harvests Rainwater, Raises Chickens, Makes Cheese and Soap, and Eats Locally. All In The Effort To Reduce Our Family's Carbon Footprint So We Can Start Making A Difference For Our Children & Future Generations To Come.

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Podcast Reviews

  • Always inspiring and entertaining!
    August 4, 2016 by floriographer from Australia

    I've crowed about Gavin's podcast before but I just have to recommend it once again - I love that he shares his learning as well as his successes - it helps the rest of us try try try again! Thanks Gavin!

  • ms
    July 22, 2016 by Ketaea12 from New Zealand

    I really enjoy listening to Gavin, he has a kind lovely voice. He covers some great relevant topics for the everyday greenie. With lots of tips or how to or what not to do. Thanks Gavin, love it!!

  • Well worth your time to tune in
    October 23, 2015 by A Vision Splendid from Australia

    I can highly recommend Gavin’s podcast ! I have followed Gavin’s blog since the very beginning and have loved to see his journey unfold. Gavin has a lovely speaking voice so this podcast is always very easy to listen to. Gavin has a very authentic approach to his green living lifestyle. He shares the ups and downs but always provides motivation and practical steps that we can all implement.

  • very good
    June 28, 2015 by Scared pax from United Kingdom

    This is a great podcast if you want to improve your life in so many aspects and become a more sustainable person. I love the soothing voice, the good pace, and it contains lots of useful information. Recommended!

  • opened my eyes
    May 25, 2015 by Gorn4lyfe from Australia

    A wonderful show!

  • Inspiring
    April 30, 2015 by Alan Whelan from Ireland

    This is a great podcast if you're looking for practical info on saving money by living more sustainably from someone who's made that journey over the last few years. Told in a nice, easy conversational style

  • Green Living, inspiring and practical
    January 8, 2015 by EliseMac from Australia

    Thanks Gav for sharing what has (and hasn't) worked along your journey for living a greener lifestyle. Inspiring and achievable for anyone, I look forward to this podcast weekly.

  • Local food equals less waste
    December 27, 2014 by allotmentadventureswithjean from Australia

    Another brilliant podcast from Gavin Webber encouraging us, and showing us how, to cut down on food miles, growing our own food, and cutting down on food waste. Gavin is a really interesting speaker, showing us how to eat better, growing our own food and how to live more sustainably.

  • Honestly australian
    December 15, 2014 by HodgepodgeOz from Australia

    Fantastic podcast, with a wide variety of well thought and researched topics. Gavin is a honest, forthright pod aster with a genuine interest in helping others get green. Like a day alongside is a day wasted, so too is a week without listening to Gavin. Highly recommended for people starting out, or those in the midst of their new lifestyle. Keep it up Gavin, wish there were more great reviews! Kimberley

  • Morning motivation
    December 8, 2014 by Bunnyworm from Australia

    Gavin has a great passion for living this greener lifestyle that motivates others to do the same. The podcasts are always interesting and informative. :)

  • Passionate Advocate
    October 18, 2014 by BoomOpGirl from Australia

    Gavin's enthusiasm and passion for creating a more sustainable world is nothing short of contagious. Thanks Gav, you are my weekly source of motivation for living a sustainable life! :)

  • Gavin speaks from the heart
    October 13, 2014 by Green gavin from Australia

    Gavin's podcasts are required listening for anyone planning to live a more sustainable life. He doesn't preach, but tells you his story from the heart. You'll laugh, smile, share in his concerns and along the way you'll pick up some great tips on living a simple life.

  • Green thoughts, so well iterated
    October 9, 2014 by Kwasikwami from Australia

    This is a wonderful podcast. Not only does Gavin talk knowledgeably on a range of sustainability topics from gardening tips all the way to the issues facing humanity as a whole, but he does so in such a wonderful voice, it's like listening to my Dad, love it!!

  • Easy listening inspiration on being green
    September 24, 2014 by Broomedy from Australia

    Gav knows how to share his journey to a more sustainable life in a manner that shows just how easy it really is. Not to mention healthier, economically beneficial and generally rewarding. The podcasts are an easy way to absorb Gav's great lifestyle. I recommend to anyone.

  • Thanks Gavin!
    August 31, 2014 by Honeywoodmilk from Australia

    Great practical advice for a greener lifestyle. This podcast is for anybody interested in growing their own food in suburbia, saving electricity, brewing beer, making cheese, all that wonderful business and most of all, saving money! Thanks Gavin, love the podcast mate!

  • Enjoyed those ideas for staying warm
    August 15, 2014 by enduringdragon from United States

    Like you we are having winter here in Chile—brrr! Every bit we can save on heating we will.

  • Green Podcasts
    July 26, 2014 by Carneu from Australia

    Excellent podcasts, which are full of information to help get started on a sustainable lifestyle.

  • Practical ideas and inspiration
    July 19, 2014 by HeathrowHeath from Australia

    I highly recommend Gavin's podcast and blog. Down to earth, entertaining and inspirational. Thank you.

  • Interesting & easy to listen to
    April 27, 2014 by Velocity3 from New Zealand

    Gavin & his guests make this green journey lots of fun.

  • Great green listen
    April 18, 2014 by Obscurenickname from Australia

    Gavin is a great down to earth, tell it like it is aussie with a passion for sustainability and growing food and making cheese

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