Water is a basic need for human beings and many other forms of life. In some parts of the world, clean water may be hard to come by. That’s why people often turn to atmospheric water generators as a way to have a reliable source of water that they can depend on in times of need.
Of course, you’ll need a place to store all of that water, and that’s where water storage tanks come in. If you’re thinking about purchasing a water storage tank for your AWG, there are a few factors you’ll need to take into account before making your decision.
#1 What is the Water Going to be Used For?
The first thing you’ll need to consider is what the water is going to be used for. If you’re looking for a water storage tank for drinking water, you’ll want to make sure that it’s made from food-grade materials.
Look for tanks that are free of BPAs, phthalates, and other harmful chemicals. You’ll also want to make sure that the tank is designed for potable water storage.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a water tank to store water for irrigation or other non-drinking uses, you won’t need to worry about finding a food-grade tank. However, you’ll still want to make sure that the tank is made from materials that won’t corrode or leach harmful chemicals into the water.
What Materials are Used in Water Storage Tanks?
There are 9 common types of materials that water storage tanks can be made out of:
- Above-Ground Fiberglass – Fiberglass is often used in residential applications because it is lightweight and easy to install. It is renowned for its durability and resistance to UV damage, cracking, dents, and corrosion.
- Bolted Steel – These tanks are made from sections of steel that are bolted together. They’re often used in commercial and industrial applications because the construction allows for a watertight seal for storing millions of gallons of water.
- Carbon Welded Steel – These tanks are made from sections of steel that are welded together. They have a variety of customizable options, including being able to choose which interior lining you would like to have, depending on the use.
- Corrugated Steel – Not only are these tanks affordable, but they’re also very versatile. They’re often used in agricultural applications but can also be used for residential and commercial purposes.
- Folding Tanks – If you need a portable solution, folding tanks are a good option. They’re often used in agricultural and military applications because they can be easily transported and set up.
- Pillow Tanks – Super flexible and adaptable to any situation, pillow tanks are often used in a variety of applications, including agricultural, industrial, and commercial.
- Polyethylene – Polyethylene plastic is often used in water storage tanks because it is durable and resistant to chemicals. It’s a good choice for both above-ground and underground storage.
- Stainless Steel – If you’re looking for a material that is corrosion-resistant, stainless steel might be the right choice for you. These tanks are often used in commercial applications because of their durability.
- Underground Fiberglass – If you need to save space, fiberglass underground tanks are a good option. They’re often used in residential applications because they’re easy to install and don’t take up a lot of space.
#2 How Much Water do You Need to Store?
The next thing you’ll need to think about is how much water you need to be able to store. This will largely be determined by the intended use of the water.
For example, if you’re looking for a water storage tank to use in case of an emergency, you’ll likely want to choose a tank that has a storage capacity of at least 1,000 gallons. On the other hand, if you’re just looking for a way to store water for watering your garden, a smaller tank with a capacity of around 50 gallons may be sufficient.
How Much Water Does an Average US Home Need?
According to the US Geological Survey, the average American family uses between 80 and 100 gallons of water per day. Of course, this number will vary depending on the size of your family and how much water you use for things like bathing, laundry, dishwashing, and other incidentals.
It’s a good idea to have a water storage tank that can hold at least a few days’ worth of water, just in case you experience a power outage or other emergency that prevents you from being able to access clean water.
#3 What are the Dimensions of the Tank?
The size of the tank you’ll need will also be determined by how much water you need to store and where you plan on storing it. For example, if you need to store a large amount of water but don’t have a lot of space to work with, you may want to choose a slimline water tank.
These types of tanks are often used in underground applications where space is limited. On the other hand, if you have plenty of space but don’t need to store a lot of water, a round or square tank may be a better option.
How Do I Measure Tank Size?
The size of the tank is usually measured in gallons. For example, a common size for a round water storage tank is 500 gallons. This means that the tank can hold up to 500 gallons of water at a time.
To find out how many gallons a particular tank can hold, you’ll need to know the dimensions of the tank. The dimensions are usually listed in the form of Diameter x Height, such as 30″D x 60″H.
To calculate the storage capacity in gallons, you’ll need to multiply the diameter by the height and then by 0.0043. This will give you the approximate capacity in gallons.
For example, a tank with dimensions of 30″D x 60″H has a capacity of approximately 1,000 gallons (30 x 60 x 0.0043 = 1,000).
What is the Shape of the Tank?
Water storage tanks come in a variety of shapes, including round, square, and slimline. The shape of the tank you choose will largely be determined by where you plan on storing it and how much water you need to store.
For example, round tanks are often used in above-ground applications because they’re easy to transport and can be placed just about anywhere. Square tanks are also popular for above-ground storage, but they’re not as easy to transport as round tanks. And, slimline tanks are often used in underground applications because they don’t take up a lot of space.
#4 What is the Climate Like Where You Live?
The climate in your area will also play a role in choosing the right water storage tank. If you live in an area with very cold winters, you’ll want to make sure you choose a tank that’s made from materials that can withstand the cold temperatures. Similarly, if you live in a hot region, you will want a material that can keep the water cool.
What Tanks Work Best in Cold Climates?
Tanks made from materials like polyethylene or fiberglass are good choices for storing water in cold climates. These materials are resistant to cracking and other damage that can occur if the water freezes.
To keep a tank from freezing in very cold weather, you may need to take some extra steps, such as insulating the tank or placing it in a heated area.
What Tanks Work Best in Hot Climates?
Tanks made from materials like concrete, fiberglass, or metal are good choices for hot climates. These materials can help keep the water inside the tank cool, even in direct sunlight.
Fiberglass offers excellent UV protection, so it’s a good choice if you’re looking for a material that can withstand direct sunlight. This can also help prevent algae growth in the tank.
To keep a tank from overheating in very warm weather, you may need to take some extra steps, such as placing it in a shady area or adding a water cooler to the system.
#5 What is Your Budget?
Of course, you’ll also need to consider your budget when choosing a water storage tank. Water storage tanks can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, so it’s important to choose one that fits within your budget.
How Much Does a Water Storage Tank Cost?
Water storage tanks can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the size and material of the tank. Some ballpark figures for common tank sizes are:
- Above-ground fiberglass tanks start at around $500 to $3,000 or more for larger sizes.
- Underground fiberglass tanks start at around $1,000 to $10,000 or more for larger sizes.
- Stainless steel tanks start at around $2,000 to $20,000 or more for larger sizes.
- Polyethylene tanks start at around $500 to $5,000 or more for larger sizes.
- Pillow tanks start at around $200 to $2,000 or more for larger sizes.
- Folding tanks start at around $1,000 to $5,000 or more for larger sizes.
#6 Where Will the Tank be Located?
The location of the tank is also an important consideration. Water storage tanks can be placed above-ground or underground, depending on your needs.
Above-Ground Water Storage Tanks
Above-ground water storage tanks are typically less expensive than underground tanks and can be placed just about anywhere on your property. They’re also easy to install and maintain.
The main downside of above-ground tanks is that they’re not as aesthetically pleasing as underground tanks and they can be more vulnerable to damage from severe weather.
Underground Water Storage Tanks
Underground water storage tanks are more expensive than above-ground tanks, but they’re also more durable and less likely to be damaged by severe weather.
The main downside of underground tanks is that they’re more difficult to install and maintain. They also take up more space than above-ground tanks.
#7 Do You Need a Pump?
Another important consideration is whether or not you need a pump. If your goal is simply to store water for future use, then a pump may not be necessary. However, if you need to move water from the tank to another location (for irrigation or other purposes), then a pump will be required. Pumps can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, so be sure to factor this into your budget.
Gravity-Fed Systems
If you have the space for it, then you can opt for a gravity-fed system. These systems rely on gravity to move water from the tank to the point of use. Gravity-fed systems are typically less expensive than pump-based systems, but they’re also less efficient. Gravity-fed systems are best suited for small-scale water needs.
Pump-Based Systems
If you need to move water over a long distance or to a height greater than the tank, then you’ll need a pump-based system. These systems use pumps to move water from the tank to the point of use. Pump-based systems are more expensive than gravity-fed systems, but they’re also more efficient. Pump-based systems are best suited for large-scale water needs.
#8 How Often Will the Tank Need to be Cleaned?
Another important consideration is how often the tank will need to be cleaned. Water storage tanks can become contaminated with algae, bacteria, and other microorganisms over time. These contaminants can make the water unsafe to drink.
To keep the water safe, it’s important to clean the tank on a regular basis. The frequency of cleaning will depend on the size of the tank, the amount of use, and the quality of the water.
As a general rule of thumb, above-ground tanks should be cleaned every two years and underground tanks should be cleaned every four years.
#9 What is the Cost of Maintenance?
In addition to the initial cost of the tank, you’ll also need to budget for the cost of maintenance. Water storage tanks require regular cleaning and inspection to ensure that they’re in good working condition.
The cost of maintenance will depend on the size of the tank, the frequency of cleaning, and the cost of labor. As a general rule of thumb, you can expect to spend between $100 and $500 per year on maintenance.
#10 Is the Tank Covered by a Warranty?
Finally, be sure to ask if the tank is covered by a warranty. Most water storage tanks come with a one-year warranty, but some manufacturers offer extended warranties of up to five years. Extended warranties typically cost between 10% and 20% of the purchase price of the tank.
Be sure to read the fine print before you purchase a warranty. Some warranties only cover defects in materials and workmanship, while others also cover damage from weather, insects, and other causes.
Summing It Up
There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing a water storage tank. But by taking the time to understand your needs and doing some research, you can find the perfect tank for your property.
If you need help choosing the right water tank for your Aquaria atmospheric water generator, please contact us. We’d be happy to help you find the perfect solution for your needs.
The purpose of this article is to help you gain insights from some of the most important questions you should ask before purchasing and installing poly water tanks. Knowing the answers will aid in your decision and prepare you for the responsibilities of the road ahead. The questions range from specific questions about poly tanks and general questions that'll apply to other types of tanks as well.
The reason is simple: the more knowledgeable you are, the more confident you’ll feel whatever decision you make.
Here are the questions that will be covered:
1. How to determine water tank size?
This is one of the most important questions to ask yourself before tank purchase. A tank that’s too small means you lose the opportunity to harvest more rain. If it’s too big, then you’re wasting the space and spending more on a tank that could be smaller. More importantly, determining the right size ensures you have sufficient water to meet your needs.
You can determine your water tank size based on the following:
Potential rainwater collection
Average household water requirements
On-farm water requirements (either stock water or water for crop spraying)
Determining water tank size based on potential rainwater collection:
You have two options here. Find out how much rain you can catch with our rainfall calculator button below or follow the section under "Formula for potential rainwater collection".
Formula for potential rainwater collection:
Potential collectable rainwater (litres) = Roof area (m2) x rainfall (mm) data from BOM x run-off coefficient x filter efficiency
A description of each element in the formula is below.
Catchment area: Otherwise the amount of roof available and suitable for rainwater collection.
Average rainfall: Rainfall data—whether daily, monthly, or yearly—is crucial in the productivity of your rainwater harvesting system. This information can be taken from the Bureau of Meteorology and categorised by state, by season, or by month.
See this link below and feel free to explore their website:
Average annual, seasonal and monthly rainfall
Run-off coefficient: Not all of the water that flows through your roof will find their way into your storage tank. This will depend on how your roof is angled.
A pitched roof will have a coefficient of 0.85. A flat roof with a smooth surface is equivalent to a coefficient of 0.55. And a flat roof with some obstructions like gravel or a thin turf is equivalent to a 0.45 coefficient. The higher the coefficient, the better for rainwater catchment. If you estimate your roof as neither too pitched nor flat, you can assign a value of 1, which means it can collect all of the rain falling on your roof.
Filter efficiency for first flush diverters: This device flushes out the first flow of water coming from your roof to eliminate debris and prevent it from going inside your water tank. A flush diverter’s efficiency data is best obtained from its supplier. If you can’t obtain this information, assign an efficient factor of 0.80 (80% efficiency).
NOTE: Some people opt out of installing a first flush diverter in order not to waste any water. If you’re like them and you want to harvest as much rainwater as you can, then simply remove this from the formula. However, if you have to use water for drinking purposes and/or for watering stock-- which needs quality water--then consider incorporating this device and/or use a filtration system.
Below are examples using the formula for potential collectable rainwater.
Example 1:
Roof area = 200 m2
Average rainfall = 500 mm a year
Run-off coefficient = 1
Filter efficiency = 0.80
Potential collectable rainfall = 80,000 litres
Example 2:
Roof area = 200 m2
Average rainfall = 200 mm average for winter
Run-off coefficient = 0.85
Filter efficiency = 0.80
Potential collectable rainfall = 27,200 litres
You can use the result of this calculation to determine the water tank size that can accommodate your potential rainwater collection.
Determining water tank size based on average household requirements:
A. Assign 250 litres of water per person per day to account for activities such as teeth brushing, bathing, etc. Allot 120 litres per person per day for washing machine usage. Add 35 litres per person per day for dishwashing. Add up the total.
B. Multiply the total by 365 (days in a year). The answer is your water tank size estimate.
Determining water tank size based on farm water requirements (either stock or water for crop spraying):
If you need a water supply not just for domestic purposes but also for your farm needs (whether for stock water or crop spraying), you may require a bigger tank or multiple tanks. Determine the size using the steps below.
A. Stock Water (Sheep & Cattle)
Livestock Type
Long term average demand (L/day)
Maximum summer demand (L/day)
Alpaca (lactating)
8–10
16–25
Alpaca (dry, adult)
4
8–10
Alpaca (<12 months)
2–3
5–6
Cattle (lactating)
80
160
Cattle (adult, dry)
50
100
Cattle on saltbush (adult, dry)
70
140
Cattle (weaner)
25
50
Sheep (lactating)
7
14
Sheep on improved pasture (adult, dry)
5
10
Sheep on saltbush (adult, dry)
8
12
Sheep (weaners)
2.5
5
B. Crop Spraying
Crop spraying requires water ranging from 40–200 L/ha per application. It goes without saying that water quality should be a priority.
Knowing the approximate amount of water that your farm and/or household needs in a year will help you choose a water tank with the capacity to store all the water that you require
NOTE:
You may want to fill your tanks from underground water sources, but this may only be able to give you a certain number of litres per day.
If you want to fill your water tank with scheme water, then calculate water tank size based on your needs (aka your average Household Requirements or your Farm Water Requirements discussed above).
But consider weighing this practice against how fast the same size water tank can be filled with rainwater catchment.
2. Are poly tanks safe for drinking water?
If you intend to use your water tank to store drinking water, you have to ensure that it’s food grade. An AS/NZS 4020 certified poly water tank means that it has been tested safe for storing drinking water.
Coerco poly water tanks are built in compliance with AS/NZS 4020 which means that our tanks are safe storages for drinking water for both you and your livestock.
Related topic:
Australian Standards for Reliable Poly Water Tanks
3. Does poly tank colour matter? What is the best colour?
Yes, it does matter. Certain colours allow more sunlight in which, in combination with the water inside, is the perfect ingredients for algae growth. Dark green, mist green, darker shades of blue, and beige are good colours that prevent sunlight from penetrating your water tank, thus, preventing algae.
Related topic:
What is the Best Poly Tank Colour to Choose?
4. How do you prevent algae in drinking water tanks?
This related topic below covers various tips on preventing algae:
How to Keep Algae Out of Your Water Tank
5. What are the main comparisons between different water tank types?
The most common materials used for water tanks are concrete, fibreglass, steel, and poly. Each type differ in make-up and, consequently, have their unique strengths and weaknesses.
This related topic below explores the main differences between different water tank materials:
Key Differences You Need to Know About Water Tanks
6. What type of poly AG tank do I need?
Coerco poly water tanks are available in premium corrugated, premium flat-walled, slimline, and underground designs, with each one capable of meeting your particular needs.
Slimline tanks are great for narrow spots. Squat tanks are ideal for low height spaces. Round tanks from our corrugated and flat-walled variety range from 1,000ltrs to 50,000ltrs, so there's plenty of capacities for you to pick from.
If you're unsure what water tank suits your property, this Water Tank Selector might be all you need.
7. What is a rainwater harvesting system comprised of?
In a nutshell, a rainwater collection system is made up of conveyance components like your roof and gutter; distribution components like pressure pumps, overflows, and other fittings; and protective implements such as first flush diverters, filtration systems, and coarse mesh.
Related topic:
Every Must-Have Component for Rainwater Harvesting You Should Be Familiar With
8. What are the setup costs when starting a rainwater harvesting system?
As much as we’d love to give you a single answer, the truth is that costs will very much depend on your rainwater harvesting set up. In this case, research will help you determine which area or components you feel you could splurge or save on. This will depend on your priorities and needs.
For example, will you be using an indirectly pumped system, directly pumped or gravity fed? The first two will need a pump, while gravity fed systems will save you on the cost of pumps. Will you be using a wet or dry rainwater harvesting system? Wet systems are generally more expensive. All these, plus the various components mentioned in number 7 will determine the overall cost.
When it comes to the storage tank itself, various factors affect the price. The factors that drive the cost of water tanks are covered in this related topic:
Water Tanks Cost and Pricing Guide
9. What are the different methods of collecting rainwater?
There are two major plumbing configurations for rainwater harvesting: the dry and wet rainwater harvesting systems.
Explore them in these related topics below:
Everything You Need to Know About Dry Rainwater Harvesting Systems
[Plumbing for Rainwater Harvesting]: Is A Wet Rainwater Harvesting System for You?
10. How effectively are you using water?
Now that we’ve determined your potential rainwater harvest and how much water your household and/or farm needs, it’s time to ask how effectively you’re using (or how effectively you can) use water. This is a good question to ask yourself because purchasing a water tank and installing a rainwater harvesting system would be inconsequential if you end up wasting water.
Some things to consider to manage your water sources:
Identify all uses of water (any water source you have, mains, dams, etc.) and assess for potential losses. For example, if you have storage from a dam, you could lose a significant amount of its stored water through evaporation during extreme heat.
Check any existing water tank and rainwater harvesting system for leaks.
Take action to prevent future leaks.
Schedule crop spraying to reduce evaporation.
Note that water availability changes over the seasons.
For more related topics on saving water (some of them may be considered unorthodox but are important nonetheless), check out these articles below:
Upgrade Your Water Storage Solution - Interview with the CEO
Costs of Carting Water You May Not Know About (and what to do)
Summer Weeds in Agriculture: Farmer's Enemy [What to Do]
7+ Drought Management Best Practices that Save You Water
11. Is rainwater harvesting worth it?
There’s more to the worth of rainwater harvesting than mere cost-benefit analysis. In regions, whether urban or rural, where rainfall is very much seasonal, optimising the benefits that rainwater storage offers is a practical and necessary solution that helps to alleviate the impact of water shortage.
Every time you turn the faucet on, the water pouring out comes from a water supply system involving an extensive infrastructure that includes huge pumps, pipes, and reservoirs. Having your rainwater harvesting system that supplies your needs directly means that you’re availing less of the aforementioned infrastructure and the energy it takes to keep it running.
The accumulative benefit on a regional scale measured over years is significant considering the constant barrage of water supply shortages.
Related topics:
Rainwater Harvesting: A Complete List of Benefits
Water Tank Installation Cost and Preparation to Take Note Of
Looking to buy a poly tank now?
Explore a variety of water tanks here:
Time-Tested Poly Water Tanks
Editor's Note: This post was originally published on February 22, 2018 and has been revamped and updated for the purpose of accuracy and comprehensiveness.