During severe drought, tap water may sometimes be rationed. Many household then tend to collect rainwater to supplement their water needs. In Malaysia, the average cost of installing a rainwater collection system for a residential property is between RM2000 and RM8000. Due to the high cost of installation, not many residential house-dwellers are able to use this system.
Universiti Teknologi MARA researchers designed the MEERA as a cheaper alternative to collect rainwater. MEERA stands for Malaysian Eco-Friendly & Economical Rainwater Accumulator. The unit is composed of a medium-sized durable rainwater storage bin that is connected to the gutter and will direct rainwater through the rain gutter into the storage bin. The bin has a water outlet using a spigot and another water outlet using a hose to avoid water spilling out of the bin when full.
MEERA can be used in 2 ways - one without any connection to an electrical pump and another with a pump to obtain better water pressure when the collected water is used. It is also possible to have additional storage bins attached to the original bin to collect more water.
MEERA is reasonably priced and is easy to install. This product will promote the usage of rainwater as an alternative source of water and reduce dependence on tap water for outdoor use.
Shahariah Asmuni
Faculty of Business Management
University Teknologi MARA
Email: [email protected]
