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Home | Outdoor Improvements | Rain Water Tanks
Rainwater Tanks
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With water becoming an ever-increasingly precious resource, the installation of a rainwater tank can save water supplies and your hip pocket. Rain water tanks come in a range of styles and sizes making them suitable for just about any home, and ae an easy way to implement green plumbing principles.
Rainwater Tank Considerations
It is important that you get the right water tank for your home and there are some factors that you will need to take into consideration. These include:
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the size of the water tank -
how many people live in your house
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how large your garden is
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what you intend to use the rainwater for
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the roof catchment area
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council requirements
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where you live – drier areas generally require larger tanks
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your existing water usage
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what guarantee there is on the tank
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how much space you have
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what preparation you will need to undertake on the ground where the tank will be
Water Tank Uses
Water tanks can be used for several things around the home such as:
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flushing the toilet
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topping up the pool or spa
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watering the garden
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laundry usage (washing machine)
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supplying the hot water system
If using your water inside the home, the tank should be fitted with a filter and it will need to have a minimum amount of water in it at all times. This may require some plumbing alterations, as any connection to the main water supply (for topping up the tank) requires that you have an air-gap in order to minimize the risk of any contamination of the mains supply. Alternatively, tanks may be topped up by a water truck.
Types of Water Tanks
There are several types of water tanks, depending on your needs.
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Polyethylene (poly) tanks – poly tanks can be used either above or below ground. They are very lightweight in comparison to other tanks so they are easy to transport and install. They also come in a wide range of shapes, sizes and colours, so will suit any home. The poly tanks are food grade (so are suitable for drinking water) and come with warranties of up to 25 years.
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Metal tanks – metal tanks can be made from galvanized steel, Aquaplate or Colorbond, Zincalume or even stainless steel. These tanks are easy to transport, come in corrugated or flat designs and can be used above or below ground. Metal tanks are often lined with polyethylene to ensure good water quality and to prevent rusting or corrosion.
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Concrete tanks – concrete tanks can be installed above or below ground but are commonly used as below ground tanks. These tanks are usually made on site, but can also be delivered pre-cast. By fitting a load bearing lid to the tank, it is possible to install them underneath driveways or other structures around the home, making them very unobtrusive.
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Fibreglass tanks – fiberglass tanks do not rust or corrode, can tolerate extreme temperatures and come in a range of sizes and colours. They are easy to transport and last for a long time. However, they can be an expensive option
Above Ground or Below Ground Tanks
Water tanks can be installed above ground or below ground. There are some factors in considering which to choose as both have their advantages and disadvantages. Above ground tanks are great because they are more cost effective than below ground tanks, leaks can be easily detected and they are easy to drain and clean. However, they do take up space in the backyard and they are vulnerable to weather conditions. Below ground tanks take up a lot less space and are hidden, so they do not affect the landscaping at all. If the lid is reinforced, it is even possible to build a driveway over the top of the tank! However, you will need a pump to extract the water and it can be difficult to spot any leaks. They also cost more due to the ground needing to be excavated.
Rainwater and the Roof
The roof and guttering system is a factor that should not be overlooked when installing a water tank. You should ensure that the guttering is suitable for rainwater collection and install guards to stop leaves, insects and other debris from finding their way into the tank. The roof and guttering need to be regularly inspected and cleaned, and a professional will be able to help you with this.
Also ensure that the tank material and the roof material are compatible with each other. Incompatible materials may cause rusting and corrosion in the tank.
Hiring a Rainwater Tank Installer
You will need the services of a professional when installing a water tank. They will deliver and install the tank for you, or make it on site if you have opted for an in ground concrete tank. Professionals are also able to install the necessary plumbing, screens and insect guards. They can clean the tank for you periodically and also repair it should it ever become necessary.
Local councils have their own requirements when it comes to water tanks and these can include things such as placement, colour, and noise control. Larger water tanks (over 10,000 litres) may also require a development approval. Professionals will be able to help you with ensuring that you meet all council requirements, saving a lot of hassle in the long run.
When hiring a professional, ensure that they are qualified and experienced. Try to get at least three quotes before selecting anyone and ask if the tank comes with any guarantee or warranty.
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References
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Associations
Australian Water Association