Installation considerations for water tanks
Water tanks play an important role in collecting water for domestic use. With the uncertainty of climate change and the constant depletion of natural water sources, it's important for Australians to ensure their water security by installing water tanks on their premises.
Water tanks ensure a regular supply of water even when the main supply lines need to undergo repairs. You will also find that they come in handy when extra water is required for emergency purposes such as fire fighting and drought relief.
There are important factors to consider when planning to install a water tank on your premises. Some of these include:
Location on the property
The functional capacity of your water tank will largely depend on where it's installed on the premises. Water tanks can be placed indoors, on rooftops, or on ground level outside the home. Outdoor tanks can be of a larger size because there tends to be more room outside than inside.
If you require a large storage capacity, outdoor water tanks may be the way to go. For those who prefer a smaller and convenient water tank that they can easily access at any time, indoor tanks can adequately serve that purpose.
Temperature and pressure requirements
Water tanks that are installed for domestic use should also take into consideration the temperature and pressure of the supply. First off, the tank should be installed in a location where it is adequately insulated from freezing or overheating.
If you require added pressure for the incoming supply, elevated tanks can provide this need by using the force of gravity. The higher the tank is, the more pressure the water will be supplied to the home. In most cases, an elevation of 70 cm can lead to an increase in pressure of 1 pound per square inch (1 psi).
The usage of the water
You should also consider what the primary purpose of the water tank is before installation. If you're storing water primarily for emergencies or non-domestic use, the water tank can be placed outside or further away from the home.
Water tanks that are primarily for domestic use such as showering, cleaning and drinking should be placed nearer to the home to make accessibility easier. Rooftop tanks are ideal for domestic usage.
Weather considerations
Before water tank installation, make sure the tank is strong enough to withstand (or is insulated from) strong winds, heavy rain and other forms of precipitation. This will prevent the need for regular repairs or replacement.