This 3.5 year study evaluates the benefits and limitations of rainwater harvesting (RWH) systems for water conservation and stormwater management under water use and precipitation conditions typical of the Greater Toronto Area.  Three RWH systems were monitored as part of this study, representing commercial, high rise residential and institutional land uses.  The data was used to create models which could simulate conditions during a ‘normal’ precipitation year.

The Brookside Public School RWH system was designed to supply water to over 20 toilets and several hose bibs.  The system uses two large variable frequency drive pumps and one small expansion tank to keep the water flowing throughout the building. The roof catchment area for the 45 m³ cistern (28.8 m³ storage chamber and 13.5 m³ settling chamber) is 2,879 m². Several water use reduction features have been added to the building, including waterless urinals, low flush toilets and ultra low flow fountains and faucets.

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