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10 Tips for Buying a Tank
This section is designed to help you make an informed decision and choose the best tank for your needs, ensuring that it continues to do an effective job for many years to come. It's also vital to know that a water tank is made of the right material for your family's health and local conditions. Ask your agent or manufacturer if your poly tank meets Australian & New Zealand Standards - is it certified to AS/NZS 4766: 2020 Polyethylene Storage Tanks for Water & Chemicals? They will be able to show you a copy of their certification or the tank will be clearly marked as being licensed to the standard.
The standard isn't mandatory, or necessarily applicable depending on your tank material, here are some great questions to ask when buying a tank to ensure you're getting a quality product:
Where was the tank made?
Some imported tanks are made from material that isn't suitable, might not have a warranty, or include fittings that are difficult and expensive to replace.
Is the plastic used in the tank certified as safe for drinking (potable) water?
Whether it's just the lining or the entire tank, properly certified polyethylene is safe for drinking water. Unfortunately some imported tanks may not be made from material which has been properly tested. It is important to note that some councils do not allow tank water to be used for drinking.
Does the manufacturer maintain a product trace system?
Good manufacturers will be able to trace your product to its source materials and will hold records of when and where it was made. They will also be able to provide details of the tests it underwent before leaving the factory.
Does the tank have a warranty?
Don't be seduced by lengthy extended warranties. Ten years is a very reasonable warranty period for plastic tanks. Steel and concrete tanks typically have longer warranty periods, 10-20 for steel and 20-30 for concrete. Carefully read the conditions and installation instructions before you buy so that you know your rights and obligations should you ever need to make a claim.
Has the tank design been tested?
Like any material, plastic has some limitations when it is placed under stress (by filling). It's important that your tank has been well designed and properly tested to ensure it's suitability for purpose. Although steel and concrete are stronger materials, it is still important to make sure the design is suitable.
Is the stated capacity of the tank calculated according to the Standard?
The calculation in the standards ensures that manufacturers can only state the actual amount of water that can be stored in the tank once fittings have been installed.
How should I maintain my tank and installation to ensure my warranty remains valid?
Your manufacturer should provide you with written guidelines to help you maintain the base fittings and installation of your tank so it will last and continue to provide excellent quality water storage.
Has the thickness and colour of the plastic been calculated according to the Standard?
The Standard sets strict guidelines concerning the thickness and colour of the material to prevent light entering the tank as this can lead to algae growth.
Does the plastic contain UV protection specifically for our Australian climate?
Our local climate can be incredibly harsh. Polyethylene is ideal because it contains UV stabilizing ingredients. It’s important to check whether the polyethylene used in the manufacture of your tank has been made in Australia. Polyethylene made in Australia has more than twice the UV protection called for in the Australian Standard so you can be sure it is suitable for the tough Australian conditions.
Is the tank made by a member of the Association of Rotational Moulders?
The Association of Rotational Moulders (ARMA) is a representative body of the majority of leading poly tank manufacturers in Australia and New Zealand. We help our members to maintain their status at the forefront of the industry and to set the leading standards in the water tank marketplace.