I am a first-time homebuyer and I am looking at a home that operates using a cistern, is this a bad thing?
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It's common in many parts of the world. Don't drink the water.
You must be out in the booneys. Cisterns are and were for a good cause, however, they can be very dangerous to children and to you as a water source. There must be a source of reference to a county official to determine if it is in fact safe. Do alot of homework.
I not sure. I find them interesting, but, very old concept. The water is usually captured from the roof or other source. I would want it sealed in some fashion as mentioned not good for children if there the possibility of falling in. Also, I may think about snakes and mosquitoes. I would probably buy drinking water (For cooking also) or you could buy a water distiller and make your own. Once a year I would have the water tested by the State Health Department (I did this with my well water). At the time it cost about $10 to have it tested.
If there is no city or county water piped in, it may be your only option. The county health department will be required to test it for contamination, but if they don't you should. Remember in a drought, cisterns can dry up completely. I wouldn't buy a house with a cistern.
My grandmother had a well for drinking and the pond for everything else. You never knew what was coming out of the faucet when you took a bath!
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