Australia is the driest inhabited continent on earth, yet millions of people flock here to call it their home. It's a testament to the tenacity of the human spirit that any type of adverse situation can be overcome and this is especially the case when it comes to that most natural of resources, water. If you consider yourself to be an environmentalist, or even if you understand the potential challenges posed in the future by drought, you should think very carefully about your consumption. No matter where you are, even in the most congested conurbations, it is possible to install a water tank that will gather valuable water for your family's use. If you're beginning to consider this option, what do you need to know?
Can It Provide All the Family's Water?
Many people wonder whether they can use water that is collected in a water tank for 100% of their needs and may delay the acquisition of such a tank because they're unsure of the situation. These days, it is possible to use tank water for drinking and cooking as well, so long as you ensure that the roof areas and gutters that are part of the collection system are always kept clean. Even if you don't go this far, you can certainly use this water for irrigation, laundry and bathroom needs.
Do I Have Room?
If you worry about the size of such a tank, you should consider installing slimline tanks which take up a much smaller footprint than the alternative. They are equally as well made and usually composed of food grade polyethylene and should fit, typically, on a solid base next to your main structure.
Is Cleaning an Issue?
The rainwater will be harvested from the roof of your home (or outbuilding) and will channel through gutters and downpipes into the tank. The system will incorporate leaf strainers and filtration systems and you should install guards on the gutters to help keep dust and dirt from entering the tank as much as possible. Over time, a certain amount of sediment will build up within the tank naturally and this should be cleaned out every couple of years to ensure best standards of operation.
What about Finances?
It may well be possible for you to get a grant from your local, state or federal government to help you install this tank and when combined with a lower water bill from utility companies, this solution should make perfect sense for your property.
Getting Your Own
Have a word with a tank supplier, so you can equip your home as soon as possible.
