ECOLOGY

Rainwater collection calculator

Estimate roof runoff capture from a rainfall event.

01 / INPUTS

Your numbers

02 / YOUR RESULT
1,600
Estimated liters collected

Default inputs are examples. Change them to match your situation.

How to use this calculator

Estimate roof runoff capture from a rainfall event. Enter catchment area (m²), rainfall (mm), collection efficiency (%). The result updates when you change an input. To compare two sets of inputs, save scenario A, then enter the second set; the result panel shows the difference.

Formula and limits

Liters collected = area(m²) × rain(mm) × efficiency/100. Assumes uniform rainfall; excludes storage overflow and water-quality considerations.

Worked example

The following example uses the calculator’s starting values. It is an illustration of the method, not a recommended target.

InputExample value
Catchment area (m²)100
Rainfall (mm)20
Collection efficiency (%)80

Estimated liters collected: 1,600

Interpreting your result

Enter local prices, equipment ratings, and emissions factors where required. Sample factors are illustrative. Real usage, weather, and equipment efficiency can change the result.

Comparing alternatives

Save the first result as scenario A, then change one input. The comparison shows the numeric difference; it does not label either result as better. Choose inputs that describe realistic alternatives. Values shown on screen are rounded, so calculations from rounded intermediate results may differ slightly.

Implementation updated September 25, 2026 · How we check calculations