RainCatchSupport
Need a hand with RainCatch? Most questions come down to catchment area, efficiency, or where the forecast numbers come from — all covered below. If you're still stuck, email us and a real person will get back to you.
FAQ
How do I measure my roof catchment area?
Use the footprint of the roof section that drains into your downspout — length times width as seen from above, not the sloped surface. A pitched roof catches the same rain as its flat footprint, so measuring from above is both easier and more accurate.
What should I set collection efficiency to?
Around 80–90% suits most setups. Some rain wets the roof, evaporates, or escapes past the eavestroughs, so you never collect the full theoretical amount. If your gutters are clean and well fitted, aim high; if they overshoot in heavy rain, dial it down.
Can I use RainCatch without sharing my location?
Yes. Switch on manual rainfall mode and enter the amounts yourself — from your own rain gauge or any forecast you trust. Every calculation, chart and widget works exactly the same.
Why is my actual collection different from the estimate?
Real eavestroughs lose water to debris, splash-over, wind-driven rain and the first flush that washes the roof. RainCatch gives you a planning estimate, not a guarantee. After a few rainfalls you'll learn how to nudge the efficiency setting to match your own setup.
Is the collected water safe to drink?
No. RainCatch is built for planning non-potable outdoor use — the garden, the lawn, washing tools. Roof runoff isn't drinking water, and municipal rules on rainwater harvesting vary, so check what applies where you live.