How to Choose and Install a Rainwater Tank

Rainwater tanks are not only an eco-friendly solution but also a cost-effective way to make the most of one of our most precious resources: water. According to Sydney Water, properly installed rainwater tanks can reduce your drinking water supply usage by up to 40%.

Before you get started, it’s important to consider several key factors when selecting and installing your rainwater tank. Here’s what you need to know.

Why Should You Install a Rainwater Tank?

Harvesting rainwater offers a practical way to conserve water, cut down on costs, and reduce your environmental footprint.

By collecting rainwater from your roof, you can put it to good use for tasks like watering the garden, flushing the toilet, or even running the washing machine. The real benefit? It helps ease the pressure on local water systems by reducing stormwater runoff.

A Guide to Rainwater Tank Installation

Step 1: Choosing the Right Rainwater Tank

The first thing you need to consider is the size and material of the tank.

Size of the Tank

The size of the tank you need depends on several factors:

• Roof Size: The larger your roof area, the more water you can collect. For example, a 100m² roof could yield up to 60,000L of rainwater annually, depending on your location’s rainfall.
• Usage: Will you be using the water for a garden, flushing toilets, or both? For a small garden and household use, a 1000–5000L tank is usually sufficient. Larger households or commercial properties require tanks with capacities ranging from 10,000L to 50,000L or more.
• Rainfall in Your Area: The average rainfall in your location will impact how much water you can collect. In areas with higher rainfall, a smaller tank could be enough, as more water is collected in a shorter time. In drier regions, a larger tank is needed to store enough water for the year, as less rain falls overall.

As a general guideline, a four-person household in Sydney will find a 3000 to 5000L tank works best for non-potable uses like gardening and laundry.

Materials of the Tank

Rainwater tanks come in a variety of materials, with the most common being:

• Polyethylene (Plastic): Lightweight, affordable, and resistant to rust, these tanks are popular for residential homes. They come in different colours to blend with your home.
• Steel: Strong and durable, steel tanks are ideal for larger capacity needs. They are resistant to UV rays and require little maintenance.
• Concrete: Mostly used for large-scale commercial installations, concrete tanks are sturdy and have long-lasting durability, but are more expensive.

Step 2: Finding the Perfect Spot

Once you’ve chosen your tank, the next step is finding the perfect spot for its installation.

Considerations for Tank Placement:

• Roof Access: You’ll need to ensure your roof can funnel rainwater into the tank efficiently. The location of the tank should be close to your roof’s downpipe for minimal plumbing work.
• Ground Stability: Make sure the ground is level and stable. A tank filled with water can weigh a lot, so a solid concrete base is recommended. Avoid placing the tank on soft ground as it could shift over time.
• Overflow Drainage: Tanks will overflow during heavy rain, so plan for an overflow pipe that directs excess water away from the foundation of your home.

Step 3: Installing the Tank

Here’s where the real work begins: the rainwater tank installation. While you can handle the basics yourself, there are some crucial steps that require professional help.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

• DIY Installation: For a stand-alone system, the rainwater tank setup is quite simple to complete. It involves connecting the tank to a downpipe, placing an inlet strainer to prevent debris from entering the tank, and installing an overflow pipe.
• Professional Installation: If you need to connect your tank to a pump, irrigation system, or the plumbing inside your home (e.g., for toilet flushing), it’s best to hire licensed plumbers in Sydney. They’ll also ensure you comply with local regulations, including having the necessary backflow prevention device.

Step 4: The Plumbing Setup

Having the right plumbing setup is essential for effective water collection and distribution. You’ll need the following:

• Downpipe Diverter: To direct rainwater from your roof into the tank.
• First Flush Diverter: This device ensures that the first flush of rainwater, which could carry contaminants from your roof, is diverted before the clean water enters the tank.
• Pump (if needed): A pump is required if you plan to direct rainwater to your garden or household appliances. These can be either submerged inside the tank or placed externally.
• Overflow Pipe: Prevents the tank from overflowing and directs the excess water away from your home.

When installing, make sure your tank is connected to a filtration system to keep the water clean and free of debris.

Step 5: Maintenance and Care

Proper maintenance is key to your rainwater tank’s longevity. Here’s what you need to do:

• Clean the Gutters Regularly: A clogged gutter can stop the rainwater from reaching your tank, and it can also lead to overflow issues.
• Empty and Clean the Tank: At least once a year, empty the tank, scrub it out, and replace the filter if needed. This will keep the water quality high.
• Check for Leaks: Inspect the tank for any leaks or cracks regularly, as they can lead to water loss.
• Maintain the Pump: If you’re using a pump, check it regularly to ensure it’s operating smoothly. It may require lubrication or parts replacement after some time.

Step 6: Troubleshooting Common Issues

Here are a few common issues you might face and how to fix them:

• Water Tank Overflowing: Ensure your overflow pipe is clear and correctly positioned. If the tank continues to overflow, consider adding a larger capacity tank.
• The Tank Has a Foul Smell: This can happen if the water hasn’t been filtered or the tank is dirty. Clean it regularly to maintain water quality.
• Water Not Flowing Properly: This could be due to a blockage in the inlet or filter. Clean out the filter and ensure that the downpipe is clear.

Conclusion

Installing a water tank is a smart investment that saves both money and the environment. By carefully considering tank size, material, placement, and maintenance, you can reduce water usage and costs.

Some tasks, such as connecting the tank to your plumbing, installing backflow prevention devices, and ensuring everything meets local regulations, require a licensed plumber. If you’re searching for “water tank installation near me” in Sydney, that’s where Fix N Flow steps in. Our expert team will handle all the technical details to make sure your installation is done properly and safely.

Ready to start collecting rainwater? Contact us today for expert advice and installation. Call us at 1300 319 275 or fill out our online form to get started!