Welcome back to Base Camp WNC, where we're excited to present our latest project: a state-of-the-art rainwater catchment system featuring a first flush system. Join us as we guide you through the intricacies of this innovative setup, designed to collect rainwater, discard the initial runoff, and channel crystal-clear water into your home.

Picture this: a 1,550-gallon tank, standing tall at 7 feet 4 inches in diameter, nestled in the perfect spot near your building. We've meticulously prepared the site, laying down fine gravel and using a tamper to create a flawlessly level surface. It's the ideal foundation for our tank, which will soon be the heart of your rainwater collection system.

Now, let's talk about gutters. We're thrilled to introduce a new product that outshines our usual stainless steel Gutter Helmets. Imagine long, flat pieces of rigid screen, seamlessly joined to create a smooth, continuous surface. The screen, cleverly tucked into the edges, acts as a highly effective debris filter. We'll show you how it looks installed on the roof, where rainwater gracefully drips off and passes through the screen, while leaves and debris are skillfully filtered out. It's a sight to behold, and we're confident you'll prefer it to the stainless steel Gutter Helmets.

The plumbing is where the magic happens. We've drilled a large hole in the rain gutter and secured a three-inch toilet flange with a 45-degree elbow, smoothly transitioning to a 90-degree elbow. This masterfully directs the water into the tank. On the other side, you'll find the first flush tube, a clever device designed to capture the initial, dirtier runoff. We've carefully calculated the necessary size based on your roof area, ensuring it collects just the right amount of water first.

The first flush system features a float mechanism, typically utilizing a plastic bottle. As the tube fills, the bottle rises, eventually sealing off the tube and diverting cleaner water to the tank. It's a self-draining marvel, with a rod and drilled holes allowing for slow drainage, minimizing maintenance. You'll only need to clean it once or twice a year, leaving you more time to enjoy your pristine rainwater.

At the heart of the purification system, water exits the tank through a shut-off valve and check valve, ensuring a one-way flow. It passes through a spin-down filter with a valve for easy cleaning, then through 20 and 5 micron filters, before finally being purified by a UV light as it enters your home. It's a journey of transformation, turning rainwater into a pure, refreshing resource.

When winter comes knocking, we've got you covered. The system can be easily drained by opening specific valves, removing filters, and ensuring the UV light is angled for drainage. We're also planning to install fittings that allow air tank use for blowing out the system, preventing any freeze damage.

If you're captivated by the potential of rainwater systems or need expert consultation, we're here for you. We offer free online and phone consultations, and hourly rates for on-site assistance or projects. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more updates on our exciting journey into sustainable living.

Thank you for joining us at Base Camp WNC, where innovation meets sustainability. Together, we're making a difference, one raindrop at a time.

For more information or to get homestead consulting services, visit our site at:  carolinahomesteadplanner.com

Progress Update on Our Tiny House Build

Welcome back to Base Camp WNC! In our latest update on the tiny house project, we've made significant progress. Since our last update, the plumbing installation is nearly complete. The interior now boasts new paneling, and Carl has been hard at work crafting the cabinets right on site. A designated space for the refrigerator and the stove has been set up, and the sink installation area is ready.

In the bathroom, we've installed the drywall and are preparing to mount the fixtures and the toilet. Outside, the electrical infrastructure is coming along, with trenches dug and power lines installed over the past two weeks, connecting us to the main poles. Although wiring isn't fully complete, power has been established at the main box.
Our water supply line from the well is in place, and we're finishing the remaining connections. This includes the water and drain lines, which are essential for winterizing the home. The septic tank installation is another milestone, with all the necessary plumbing hook-ups and a cleanout installed for maintenance ease.

Despite the challenges of incoming weather, we're pressing ahead. I plan to cover the installation of the septic tank's drain field in an upcoming video. With heavy rain forecasted, we've also taken precautionary measures to prevent the empty septic tank from shifting by filling it partially with water.

As always, I'll continue to document our journey, including the installation of the sewer line and ensuring proper grading beneath the tiny house. Our next big task will involve landscaping and installing the underpinning.

Thank you for following our progress! Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more updates. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to post them. I look forward to sharing more with you in our next video. Thank you for watching!


Visit us at:  Carolina Homestead Planner.   I offer homestead consulting and self-reliant lifestyle planning.