How to Determine the Right Size and Material of Residential Rainwater Tank

28 October 2017
 Categories: , Blog

Share

A residential rainwater tank can help to reduce the usage of fresh water for lawn care and for taking care of livestock; rainwater can also be used for refilling the pool, and for washing the home, your car, your deck, your pets, and for any other use that may otherwise be a waste of freshwater. When you're ready to shop for a new rainwater tank, note a few tips on how to determine the right size and material of the tank you'll need for your property, and your water collecting needs overall.

Average rainfall and collection

Don't assume that a larger tank is always the best choice, as your area may not get much rainfall throughout the year. In turn, you may waste space with a large tank that never seems to actually get full! Check local weather bureaus for the average rainfall every year in your area; if that's only a few feet or meters, you can suffice with a smaller tank.

Note, too, where you plan on locating the tank and how it will collect rainwater. If you have an open barrel on the property, it will only collect the rainwater that falls onto its surface. If you plan on redirecting the gutters and downspouts of your home so that your rainwater tank will collect all the rain that falls on your roof, then you will need a bigger tank to hold that added water supply.

Freestanding

If you choose a freestanding tank, note that a larger tank will probably need a base. This can be a concrete pad, or you can choose a cone-shaped tank that sits in its own metal frame, which keeps it stable. Your other option is to choose a tank that is short but wide, with built-in feet or modules at the bottom. This will help to disperse the weight of the water across the tank and keep it steady and stable and stop it from sinking into the ground.

Portability

Do you want to take your rainwater tank with you when you move or put it out of sight when hosting company in the backyard? If so, choose a small and lightweight tank that is easy to roll or drag out of the way. You might also want to choose a wood barrel if you're concerned about the appearance of the tank, as this can be more attractive than plastic and you won't need to move it every time you host visitors.

Contact a manufacturer that carries a 10000-litre water tank for more information and assistance.