GRAF UK has launched its AA Eco-Plus rainwater harvesting range, a system designed to collect and store roof run-off for reuse across a building, reducing how much mains water is needed. The range has received industry recognition, though specific award details were not published at time of writing.
What makes rainwater harvesting relevant for UK contractors right now?
Water efficiency is an increasingly specified requirement on residential developments in England, particularly in areas where the water stress designation from the Environment Agency is high, covering most of southern and eastern England. Part G of the Building Regulations sets a water consumption target of 125 litres per person per day for standard new build homes; some local plans require a tighter 110 litre target.
Rainwater harvesting contributes to hitting these targets by substituting collected roof water for mains water in non-potable applications including toilet flushing, garden irrigation, and laundry, where permitted by the system design.
What the GRAF AA Eco-Plus system does
GRAF describes the AA Eco-Plus range as maximising the use of free rainwater rather than relying on mains top-ups. This is the key differentiator in a rainwater harvesting system: a basic system stores rainwater until it runs out, then switches to mains. A system designed to minimise mains dependency uses a larger storage tank, better filtration to extend the usable period from each rainfall event, and smarter management to prioritise rainwater draw before switching to the mains top-up.
For developers and contractors building to water efficiency targets, the distinction between a system that simply has a tank and one actively designed to displace mains water at volume is worth understanding when comparing specifications.
Where to find out more
GRAF UK products are available through drainage and civils distributors. The Professional Builder announcement provides a starting point.
Source: Professional Builder