You may or may not have already heard about Cisterns before but for those who have not I will try to shed some light on the subject. These are really great yet ancient devices which are a still valuable addition to any modern home.
Cisterns are large tanks used for retaining water (usually collected rainwater) to use for either irrigation, household use or consumption. Generally they are buried in the ground to keep out of the way but also to help reduce evaporation but they can stand above ground as well. A fairly common above ground Cistern like device would be a rain barrel usually sitting beside peoples homes with the downspout from the eaves trough emptying into it. These are typically used by people who have gardens and wish to save tap water. Many turn of the century homes and older had them because it was where water was stored for all purposes.
Modern technology has drawn us away from Cisterns with plastic and steel water tanks and town water which is safer for consumption. Although Cisterns are now making a comeback for residential and farm use for gardens and even toilet, shower and clothes washing. They are a great way to save tap water and electricity if you’re on a well and money. By collecting and storing rainwater it remains usable for when there is a drought and you may be under a watering ban. None of us want to let our lawns and gardens dry up during a watering ban which is the beauty of Cisterns. They collect free water from your roof during rainstorms and store it for times just like that and you could have a healthy, green and lush lawn and garden all season long even in the driest of weather while others can’t because of water shortages.
Old technology or not, Cisterns are still a green way to save water and energy and store it for that not so rainy day. Plus it’s free water (a great consideration if you’re on town water) and watering bans would not effect you or your lawn the same way as a strictly town water household.
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