Water tanks provide real water conservation benefits, for both people and the environment. They play an important role in preserving precious water, especially rainwater. However many still ask, how do water tanks work? Water tanks come in different sizes, shapes and types, but all the different tanks have certain similarities in how they work.

People need lots of water every day for essential purposes like drinking and cleaning – but there is only a certain amount of water available. Sometimes water gets even scarcer, like when there is a drought and water restrictions come into effect. Rain water harvesting can ensure that people have water to meet their daily needs, and water tanks are an essential part of this. A water harvesting system can be installed in a house. When it rains the roof of the house becomes the water catchment area. The gutters on the roof funnel rainwater into the pipes, which connect the gutters to the water tanks. The water is then transported via pipes to the water tanks installed above or below the ground.

The captured rainwater is then stored to be used around the house. The water can be used for a number of purposes like cooking, washing and gardening. In urban and suburban areas where town water is available, it is not recommended to drink rainwater. In rural areas it may be possible to drink harvested rainwater, but you will need to install a filtration system to do so. Water tanks may also play a role in storing water that is supplied by local authorities.

Every home would benefit from having a water tank installed that is large enough to sustain the home for a considerable period of time, even if rain is scarce or the water supply from the local authorities stops. Depending on the property, a water tank can either be placed on the ground, below or even be elevated above the ground on a stand or platform. Above ground round polyethylene tanks are often the most cost effective option.

When choosing the most suitable water tank, it is important that every homeowner takes a few factors into consideration:

  • The type of water tank that is best for you (steel, poly or concrete; above or below ground etc.
  • Type and amount of catchment area on the roof of the house
  • Where the tank will be installed
  • The budget required for overall maintenance of the tank

Think about the above before you buy, and you will find choosing the best water tank for you very simple. Why not click on one of our links above to see which tank suits you?