Lowtech Graph lists low-tech options for every need of a home. Here you can compare them, find tutorials to build them, and link them together into a circular system. Why low-tech?
Gravity-fed distribution from elevated storage
Passive
One of 2 ways to meet this need. Cost, carbon, footprint and rankings are relative to other solutions for the same need, not absolute.
What your site needs
Storage set high enough above the point of use to give usable fall
No pump needed if storage sits above point of use; low pressure but passive and resilient.
Levels are relative to the other options for this need, not absolute. Fewer dots is lighter.
Gravity-fed distribution from elevated storage (This page) Can I use it? Works in a flat · No rebuilding needed What does it cost me? Upfront cost: Low · Skill to build: Basic · Upkeep: Light · Change to daily life: Occasional · Works without the grid: Yes Choose it if your storage sits above the taps and you want water that flows through any power cut.
Pressurised pump distribution Can I use it? Works in a flat · No rebuilding needed What does it cost me? Upfront cost: Medium · Skill to build: Intermediate · Upkeep: Regular · Change to daily life: None · Works without the grid: No Choose it if you want mains-like pressure, so ordinary showers and appliances work normally.
We don’t list sizing or quantities, as the yield of each technique depends on the quality of its build. The catalogue compares options but doesn’t dimension them. Regulatory notes are indicative, with a French example, and need to be confirmed locally.