A lot of people on the Big Island live off the grid, sometimes by choice, often because those services aren’t available. Larger urban areas like Hilo and Kailua Kona have decent options, but the more rural the area, the less that’s available. Where I live, there’s public power and water, but no sewer system.
Because of this, catchment water tanks are a common sight, especially on the east side of the island, where there’s more rainfall. This one was in Volcano Village at a vacation rental. Generally, catchment water is used for everything except human consumption. Some homes install systems to purify catchment water to make it drinkable. Otherwise, drinking water is delivered by tanker or can be obtained by filling bottles at public water spigots located around the island.
Graham's Island 
Wow I had no idea. I’m amazed by how little progress has affected some areas. Although I use the term progress sceptically.
LikeLiked by 1 person
The Big island is essentially quite rural so it’s not surprising that many areas don’t have what are considered essential services in more urban areas.
LikeLike
I can’t even imagine not having clean water available…
LikeLiked by 1 person
Well, clean water is available, but it just takes a bit more effort to get it. However, it’s still way better than not having access to clean water at all.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Indeed.
LikeLiked by 1 person
The things we take for granted. It’s a blessing to have power and water and I’m assuming you have a septic tank. We have a septic tank at our cabin in Wyoming and the water comes from a spring. Here at home, we have all the amenities.
LikeLiked by 1 person
We actually have a cesspool, which was the norm here. However, these have to be replaced by 2050 under recent regulations. It’ll be interesting to see how that goes!
LikeLike
Good luck!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I stopped using metal tanks ages ago, They rust out even if they are lines and galvanised eventually. All my tanks are plastic and concrete and I can use the water for everything.
LikeLiked by 1 person
These tanks have plastic liners, but the water they catch comes off the roof and who knows what’s been on the roof.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Mine are water from the roof too and I agree. I have a water filter jug for drinking water especially for guests. My gut is used to my water but others not used to it may become ill. A bit of gastro never anyone 😁
LikeLiked by 1 person
A bit of gastro can take you out if you’re unlucky! It’s not hard to access clean drinking water here so it makes sense to do so.
LikeLiked by 1 person