Dealing with Pele’s hair, which is the volcanic glass-like strands ejected during an eruption

​Dealing with Pele’s hair, which is the volcanic glass-like strands ejected during an eruption, can be challenging for catchment systems, especially when it gets deposited on rooftops and into rainwater harvesting systems. Pele's hair can pose a significant risk to water quality because as you mentioned, the hairs break down into micro-particles, which could contaminate the water used for household consumption.

Here are some recommendations to help mitigate the issue:
1. Enhanced Filtration Systems
Mesh or Filter Screens: Use fine mesh filters (like a 200-micron or smaller) installed at the first flush diverter, as well as Uncle Tilo's Basic Bag at the point of entry into the tank. These can capture the fine volcanic fibers before they enter the tank.
Activated Carbon Filters: These can help further reduce the presence of micro-particles, especially once the water is in the storage tank. They can also help remove any other contaminants from the water. We recommend a 5 micron Activated Carbon Block.
Sediment Filters: Installing sediment filters, which filter out particulate matter, is essential for removing particles like Pele’s hair. The filtration should ideally go down to very fine particulates. We recommend a 20 Micron Poly. Not paper or string.

2. Improved First Flush Systems
More Effective First Flush Diverters: While the first flush system alone may not be sufficient, consider using more robust systems that can handle greater volumes of water to divert and collect a larger amount of debris. Some systems are designed to capture heavier particles first and then gradually divert the rest of the rainwater.
Increased Diversion: Adding a secondary first flush system or improving the existing system’s capacity could help prevent finer particles from entering the storage tanks. Consider designing the system to handle multiple flush stages, with each stage targeting different particle sizes.

3. Regular Maintenance
Rooftop Cleaning: Regularly cleaning your rooftop, especially after volcanic activity, is important to remove any accumulated Pele’s hair. Once it settles on the roof, it can easily be swept or hosed off. Depending on the frequency of eruptions, this may need to be done regularly.
Tank Cleaning: Regular cleaning of the rainwater storage tanks will also help in reducing the risk of accumulated particles over time.

4. Water Treatment Options
UV Sterilization: Ultraviolet (UV) light can inactivate some bacteria or pathogens that might be present in the water after filtration. While this won't remove physical particles, it can help with microbial contamination.
Quantum Disinfection: The Platinum whole house water disinfection kills pathogens and does NOT require electricity. You can drink, shower, wash your food and dishes in this water. https://www.tiloscleanwater.com/quantum-disinfection.html
Boiling or Chemical Treatment: If the water seems highly contaminated, boiling or using safe water treatment tablets (e.g., iodine or chlorine) could make the water safe for consumption.

5. Use of Sedimentation Tanks
Implementing a sedimentation tank before the water reaches your main storage tank can be beneficial. This allows larger particles, including any Pele’s hair that may have not been filtered out, to settle at the bottom before water enters the main storage.
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6. Additional Recommendations
Cover the Tanks: Ensure your rainwater storage tanks are tightly covered to prevent contamination from airborne particles. Might be worth using two covers.

Adding a Floating Intake Line to the catchment systems then takes the water from about 18" from the top of tank - the cleanest water in the tank keeping your pump, water heater, filters cleaner longer.

Monitor Water Quality: Regular testing of the water, especially after significant volcanic activity, will help you assess any contamination and allow you to adjust your filtration systems accordingly.

By combining these strategies, you can significantly reduce the risk of Pele's hair or micro-particles entering your rainwater harvesting system, ensuring the water is safe for household use.

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