Why Rainwater Harvesting Is a Smart, Sustainable Choice

In the UK, we’re lucky to have regular rainfall, but much of it goes straight into the drains and gutters and then into our sewer system. Rainwater harvesting is the process of capturing that free water, storing it and reuse it. It is a simple, eco-friendly way to capture, store, helping reduce reliance on mains water and lower your bills.

Whether you’re a home gardener, a self-builder, or managing a commercial site, investing in the Enduramaxx rainwater harvesting tank or Etills water butts is one of the easiest sustainable upgrades you can make.

At Build Greener, we supply two of the UK’s best-known rainwater storage brands:

• Enduramaxx Rainwater Tanks – large capacity, commercial-grade, and built for farms, self-build projects, and industrial sites.
• Etills Water Butts – stylish, compact, and perfect for gardens, patios, and decorative domestic use.

This guide will help you understand how rainwater harvesting works, then compare these two popular options so you can choose the right solution for your needs.

What Is Rainwater Harvesting & How Does It Work?

Rainwater harvesting involves collecting water from a roof or catchment area and channeling it through a downpipe or diverter into a storage container like a water butt or a large rainwater tank.

First, rain falls onto your roof or another catchment surface. The gutters and downpipes collect this water and direct it towards your system. A diverter kit then sends the water into your storage container, whether that’s an Enduramaxx tank or an Etills water butt. The water remains stored there until you need it.

Optional filtration and pumps can be added to clean the water or help distribute it more easily for various uses.

Common Uses for Harvested Rainwater in the UK

Harvested rainwater is extremely versatile. Many use it for garden irrigation and watering allotments, helping keep plants healthy without using mains water. It’s also great for washing cars, windows, and outdoor equipment, cutting down your water bills. On farms, rainwater is often used to provide drinking water for livestock or to irrigate crops. On construction sites, it can be used for dust suppression and mixing concrete, reducing reliance on mains water and lowering environmental impact. Some households even use rainwater for flushing toilets, which helps conserve treated mains water since this use doesn’t require potable water.

Benefits of Rainwater Harvesting in the UK

One of the biggest benefits of rainwater harvesting is saving money. By collecting and using free rainwater, you can reduce your mains water bills, especially during summer months when water usage tends to be higher.

Rainwater harvesting is also eco-friendly. By using water that nature provides, you reduce your environmental footprint and help conserve valuable treated water resources.

Rainwater is soft and free from chlorine or limescale, making it much healthier for your plants and garden compared to tap water.

Additionally, storing rainwater helps you stay drought-ready. During hosepipe bans or dry spells, having a supply of stored water means your garden or site can keep functioning without interruption.

Finally, rainwater harvesting systems are flexible. You can choose compact water butts for small spaces or massive tanks for commercial or agricultural use, depending on your needs.

Rainwater Harvesting Tanks UK -  Why Enduramaxx Stands out

For large-scale rainwater harvesting, Enduramaxx is one of the UK’s leading names. Known for durability and performance, these tanks are designed for heavy-duty use in agriculture, commercial projects, self-build homes, and off-grid living.

Why Choose Enduramaxx?

Enduramaxx tanks are made from UV-stabilised polyethylene, a material that resists cracking, corrosion, and sun damage. This makes them ideal for long-term outdoor installation. They are available in sizes from 150 litres to 30,000 litres, with both above-ground and underground models to suit your site.

Because of their robust build, they can be integrated into irrigation systems, pressure washing setups, livestock watering, and non-potable indoor uses. Many models are pump and filtration ready, meaning you can upgrade your system at any time.

Installation

Installing an Enduramaxx tank begins with choosing the right location, somewhere accessible, level, and with enough space for the tank’s footprint. For larger models, a concrete pad or compacted hardcore base is recommended to provide stability.

Once the base is prepared, the tank can be positioned. Bigger models may require machinery for safe handling. The next step is to connect your guttering or pipework to the tank’s inlet, ensuring water flows directly into storage. Optional pumps or filtration can be fitted if required. Once connected, test for leaks and confirm water flow.

Tip: In the UK’s unpredictable climate, it’s often wise to choose a larger tank than you think you’ll need. Heavy rainfall events can quickly fill extra capacity, giving you more reserves for dry periods.

Maintenance

Enduramaxx tanks require minimal upkeep, but it’s important to check inlet filters every 3–6 months to prevent blockages. Diverter kits should be flushed annually, and seals and fittings inspected for wear. Depending on usage, the tank’s interior may need occasional cleaning to remove algae or sediment.

Built to Last

Designed to withstand the elements, Enduramaxx tanks can last 20 years or more with proper care. They are impact-resistant, corrosion-proof, and made for both permanent and temporary installations. Whether you’re building a BREEAM-certified property, running a farm, or operating off-grid, this is a storage solution built for the long haul.

Affordable Options Starting from £62

Sustainable water storage doesn’t have to be expensive. Enduramaxx rainwater harvesting tanks start at just £62, making them accessible for homeowners as well as large-scale users. Larger tanks are competitively priced, offering exceptional value when compared to long-term water savings and infrastructure benefits.

Ready to Find Your Ideal Tank?

Explore our full range of rainwater harvesting tanks at www.buildgreener.co.uk, or get in touch with our team at sales@buildgreener.co.uk for personalised advice and recommendations.

Etills Water Butts – Stylish, Compact, and Practical

While Enduramaxx tanks are all about maximum capacity, Etills water butts focus on design and convenience. Perfect for domestic gardens, patios, balconies, and smaller spaces, they allow you to start harvesting rainwater without major installation work.

Why Choose Etills?

Etills water butts typically range from 100 to 500 litres in capacity, making them easy to fit into even modest outdoor spaces. They come in a variety of decorative styles - including stone, terracotta, and wood-effect finishes, so they blend seamlessly into your garden design.

Their compact footprint and lightweight build make them easy to position and install. Many are modular, allowing you to link multiple units together if you need extra storage in the future.

Installation

Installing an Etills water butt is simple. Choose a level spot near a downpipe, install the diverter kit, and connect it to the water butt’s inlet. Secure the lid to prevent debris and insects from entering, and fit the tap or hose connector for easy access to your stored water. Most setups can be completed in under an hour.

Maintenance

To keep your rainwater fresh, rinse the interior once a year and check taps, lids, and connectors for leaks. Clearing debris from the diverter ensures smooth water flow. These small steps will keep your water butt working efficiently for years.

Etills water butts start at £115.99, offering a stylish, budget-friendly entry into sustainable water use. For households looking to save water, cut bills, and add an attractive feature to their garden, they’re a fantastic choice.

Enduramaxx vs Etills – Which Should You Choose?

Enduramaxx tanks offer large capacities from 150 to 30,000 litres, ideal for farms, commercial sites, or big eco projects. They might require groundwork but provide long-term water storage that can last 20+ years. Though a bigger investment upfront, they save money over time.

Etills water butts hold between 100 and 500 litres and are perfect for gardens, patios, and smaller spaces. They’re easy to install with no groundwork, budget-friendly, and last around 10 to 15 years. Their decorative styles also add charm to your outdoor area.

Many customers combine both: Enduramaxx tanks for bulk water storage and Etills water butts for quick, handy access.

Feature	Enduramaxx Rainwater Tanks UK	Etills Water Butts UK
Capacity	150L–30,000L	100–500L
Installation	May require groundworks	Simple, plug-and-play
Best For	Farms, commercial, high-volume storage	Gardens, patios, small spaces
Appearance	Functional or underground	Decorative and compact
Cost	Larger investment, long-term savings	Budget-friendly
Lifespan	20+ years	10–15 years

Build Greener Recommendation:

If you have high water demands or want a long-term, large-scale solution then we would suggest going with Enduramaxx tanks.

If you need something stylish, compact, and budget-friendly for the garden then we would recommend going with the Etills waterButts.

Rainwater harvesting is one of the easiest, most affordable ways to live more sustainably in the UK. Whether you choose Enduramaxx for capacity or Etills for convenience, both offer durable, practical, and eco-friendly solutions.

Start Your Sustainable Journey Today

• Shop Enduramaxx Rainwater Tanks UK – starting from £62
• Shop Etills Water Butts UK – starting from £115.99

Why Choose Build Greener?

At Build Greener, we believe that small, smart choices can lead to a big impact, for your home, your wallet, and the planet. That’s why every product we sell is carefully selected to combine eco conscious design, practical performance, and real-world reliability.

We’re here to make sustainable building and living simple, accessible, and affordable, whether you're installing a water butt in your garden or planning an entire green building project.

Here's what you can expect when you shop with us:

A Trusted UK Based Supplier

We’re proudly based in the UK and work with leading manufacturers and verified suppliers to ensure you're getting products that meet high standards for quality, durability, and sustainability.

Fast Delivery & Helpful Customer Service

We know how important quick, reliable delivery is when your mid project! That’s why we work hard to offer prompt shipping and responsive, friendly support to help you find the right products and get them to your door quickly.

Eco Conscious, High Performing Products

Every item in our range is chosen with sustainability at its core, but we never compromise on practicality or performance. From water saving solutions to natural insulation, our products are built to last, easy to install, and effective in real world conditions.

Friendly Expert Support

Have questions or need help choosing the right setup? Our friendly team is just an email away: sales@buildgreener.co.uk

Frequently Asked Questions – Rainwater Harvesting in the UK

Do I need planning permission to install a rainwater tank?

In most cases, no. Installing a rainwater harvesting tank or water butt is considered permitted development in the UK, meaning you can usually install one without formal planning permission. The main exceptions are if you live in a listed building, a conservation area, or if the installation significantly alters your property’s appearance. If in doubt, contact your local planning authority.

Can I drink rainwater from my tank?

Rainwater collected from roofs is not safe to drink without advanced filtration and purification. Even with basic filters, it can contain dust, debris, and contaminants from roofing materials or bird droppings. In the UK, harvested rainwater is best used for non-potable applications such as watering plants, flushing toilets, or cleaning. If you want to make it drinkable, you’ll need a UV purification system and multiple filtration stages.

How long will the stored rainwater last?

If your tank is sealed and kept out of direct sunlight, harvested rainwater can stay usable for weeks or even months. Algae growth is the main factor that shortens water freshness, so keeping lids secure and using filters to remove debris will extend storage life. For longer-term storage, consider an opaque tank like those made by Enduramaxx, which helps block sunlight and reduce algae growth.

What size tank do I need?

This depends on your water usage, roof size, and local rainfall. For gardens, 100–500 litres from an Etills water butt is usually plenty. For farms, commercial premises, or self-build homes, larger tanks like 5,000–30,000 litres from Enduramaxx will give you better reserves. As a general rule, go bigger than you think you’ll need, rainfall is unpredictable, and extra capacity ensures you won’t miss out during heavy rain.

Can I connect multiple tanks together?

Yes. Both Enduramaxx tanks and Etills water butts can be linked together using connection kits or pipework. This allows you to expand your capacity over time, starting small and scaling up as your water needs grow.

Will a water butt work in winter?

Yes, but you should take some precautions. In freezing conditions, water can expand and put pressure on the tank walls and fittings. For smaller water butts, you can partially drain them in winter to avoid overfilling with ice. Enduramaxx tanks are built to withstand UK winters, but it’s still wise to keep outlets and taps insulated to prevent damage.

How much money can I save?

Savings vary depending on your water usage and metered rates. A typical UK household using rainwater for garden irrigation, car washing, and toilet flushing could save hundreds of pounds per year. On farms and commercial sites, where water use is far higher, savings can be in the thousands annually. With starting prices as low as £62 for Enduramaxx tanks and £115.99 for Etills water butts, most systems pay for themselves within a few years.

Can I install a rainwater harvesting system myself?

Yes - in fact, many people do. Installing an Etills water butt is straightforward and can be done in under an hour with basic tools. Enduramaxx tanks, especially larger models, may require some groundwork and lifting equipment, but the process is still relatively simple for anyone confident with DIY. If you’re integrating the system with indoor plumbing or using it for commercial purposes, a professional installer is recommended.

Is harvested rainwater better for plants?

Absolutely. Rainwater is naturally soft and slightly acidic, which is ideal for most plants. It doesn’t contain chlorine, fluoride, or limescale, which can be found in treated mains water. Using rainwater can improve plant health, boost growth, and reduce the risk of soil damage over time.

A Greener Future, One Product at a Time

When you choose Build Greener, you’re not just buying products - you’re joining a community of people who want to build better, live smarter, and make choices that respect the environment.

So whether you’re watering your garden, renovating a property, or building your dream eco home - we’re here to support you every step of the way.