Plastic, or polyethylene, water tanks are now the biggest selling sector of the booming water tank market.  This page includes a range of information to help you make the right decision on a tank to meet your own personal needs.  Buying a water tank might seem like a daunting task but is as easy as 1, 2, 3!

 

Step 1) Deciding how you plan to use the water

 

When it comes to harvesting rainwater, the first thing you need to consider is how you plan to use the water you save.  Many tank owners use their tank to combat water restrictions and to reduce water usage costs allowing for a lush, green garden all year-round.  Rainwater may also be redirected back into the house for use in the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry.  The more uses you plan for your water will help you determine the size of the tank you will need.  Government guidelines differ between local authorities and some will have specific rules about whether tank water can be used in the entire house, only for washing and toilets, or only for the garden.

 

Step 2) Calculating how much water you are capable of capturing

 

Weather patterns vary, so it’s a good idea to store as much water as possible, in case it’s a long time between rainy days.  Take a look at the rainfall in your area by checking out your local weather website.  Many tank suppliers can help provide you with this information too. You will need to know the approximate measurements of your roof available for channelling the water into your tank.  Additionally, the more downpipes you have, the more water you will be able to capture when it rains.  As a general rule, 1mm of rain over 1 square metre of roof area will result in 1 metre of rainwater entering your tank.

 

There are many things you can do to ensure the best quality water flows into your tank.  It is important to find out if your roofing material or the paint used on your roof or in your gutters etc., could contaminate rainwater.  For example, tar-based coatings can bind other harmful organic chemicals to the roof or gutter and can be difficult to clean. Rainwater should not be collected from parts of the roof that incorporate a chimney from a wood burner, discharge pipes from roof mounted appliances such as evaporative air conditioners or hot water systems, chemically treated timbers; or lead-based paints or flashings.  First Flush Systems and leaf guards can also prevent unwanted contaminants from entering your water tank.  Click here to find out more about additional tank fittings.

 

Step 3) Choosing your tank

 

Finally, you will need to decide which type of tank best suits your space.  Above ground cylindrical tanks are the most common and come in straight wall or corrugated sides.  There are various models available including those that will fit under the eaves of your house or those that can be used as fences or walls in your outdoor areas.  If space is an issue for you, there are a range of slimline tanks available.  These tanks are usually ovular or rectangular in shape and are suited best to homes where outdoor space is highly valued.  Alternatively, underground tanks are a great option if space is limited.  If you value aesthetics highly, then poly tanks may well be your first choice as they have clean, smooth lines and come in a huge range of colours and styles including modern straight wall designs or the more traditional corrugated styles.  Click here to view a range of tank designs.