Rainwater Tanks: How, What and Where
August 26th 2008 02:07
Rainwater tanks store rainwater run-off from catchment areas like your roof. In most cases, the water from your roof is funnelled along your gutters and into downpipes connected to your tank. If you are going to install a rainwater tank, alterations to your guttering may be required. To get the best out of your rainwater tank, it's important to install appropriate screens to stop debris and insects entering the tank.
If you are connecting your tank to the toilet or washing machine you will need to maintain a minimum level of water in your tank and will therefore need a top-up system. A top-up system will deliver water to your tank through a pipe from the the drinking water supply. An air-gap is required between this pipe and the rainwater tank. This is to ensure no backflow can go into the drinking water supply from your tank.
Sydney Water requires that the flow from your top-up system be limited. If the flow rate is too high, it can affect the water pressure supplied to you and your neighbours. Your plumber can advise of the requirements of the top-up system for your property, including determining the air-gap required and flow rate restriction required.
It's important to make sure you get the right size rainwater tank to suit your needs. Generally, the larger the tank, the more water that can be saved. Sydney water has recommended tank sizes depending on use and users. However in rural areas, and other parts of the country, different sizes will apply.
For a Sydney dweller, 5,000 litres is needed for all non drinking household use such as flushing toilets, washing clothes, watering gardens, washing cars. 2,000 litres is needed for some household use such as toilet flushing and watering a small garden area.
However, you should also consider how many people live in your home. An average four-person household uses around 7,000 litres of water each week. Also consider the size of the roof catchment area the tank is connected to, as this will limit the amount of water you can collect.
Types
Tanks can be above or below ground, come in a variety of materials and cater to a range of budgets. Some tanks can be place both above and below ground, and therefore the issue is available space.
Polyethylene, metal and concrete tanks can be placed both above and below ground. The 'poly' tanks are durable, light and vary in size and colour. Metal tanks are corrugated or steel, and also lightweight. Concrete tanks are durable, and keep water cool. They may crack if below ground, so they are best suited above ground. This will of course depend on the space and individual situation
Fibreglass tanks are best above the ground, are resistant to corrosion, and are lightweight.
Above ground tanks take up living space outside, and are exposed to the elements. However if there is any problem with the tank it is easy to find and fix. If they are raised off the ground this can aid water pressure. Underground tanks will require a pump, which is costly, in order to get the water around the house.
Installation and maintenance of an underground tank is more expensive and tricky, due to its less accessible position and possible excavation required. There is also a risk of damage or contamination from tree roots, heavy vehicles, and ground water. The advantage of the underground tank is that it will be out of the way, protected from the elements, and water will be cool.
Once you have considered these options, you will be better informed when you hit the water tank market. There are many brands and varieties, so shop around to get what you need and what your budget can afford.
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