People living in the Midwest and other parts of the country used to catch rainwater in cisterns before water was piped into homes. The rainwater was used for everything, including drinking which created health problems if was not boiled before imbibing.
Eventually treated city water from reservoirs was plumbed into homes and people simply turned on the tap for hot and cold water. 
Today you can harvest and save rainwater from your roof drainage system in an underground storage tank with a filter that removes leaves and debris. Most harvesting systems can hold about 100,000 liters of rainwater. The harvested water can be stored and used for watering plants during a heat wave, flushing toilets, washing cars and walkways. It’s not considered drinkable nor should it be used for cooking or bathing.
Midwest storms bring torrential rains and water conservation through harvesting will lower your water bill. The amount of collected water depends on the slope of the roof and size of the tank installed under your garden or driveway. The tank has a pump system and it’s stored in the dark to discourage algae growth.
Learn more about water conservation while lowering your water bill by contacting Hermes Landscaping today!
Photo Source: Houzz