Water Tanks Melbourne

It seems as though sometimes we get way too much rain and then all of a sudden it stops coming down and we do not have enough. A solution to this inequity is the use of rainwater tanks. With these tanks, one can collect rain and stored it for later use.

Rainwater tanks are also referred to as rain barrels and in the United Kingdom they call them rain butts. Whatever you call them, their function is to capture rain water that is stored and used when water is scarce. Most of the time above ground tanks are used but sometimes in-ground tanks are installed, particularly in more arid climates when times of drought is all but certain.

Types of tanks may be concrete, plastic or galvanized steel as well as stainless steel and fiberglass which are chemical resistant and rust proof. They are found often on the tops of roofs as well as patios, driveways and other areas with waterproof surfaces.

There is a wide array of uses for the gathered rain water. Frequently it is used to irrigate crops and tend to agriculture. It may also be used to water yard and gardens. Household water usage may include toilets, washing machines, and hoses for car washing. In some cases the water becomes drinking water. If the water is to be drunk, one must take steps to ensure that it is safe to consume.

A well equipped tank will make it easier to have a drinkable, uncontaminated water supply. Dirt and debris as well as insects and bird droppings can be kept out with a screen cover. A tank that is opaque will disallow the penetration of sunlight and thus minimize algae and bacteria growth. A plastic lining inside the tank aids in leak prevention and keeps water quality higher.

Still, even if these measures are taken, it remains vital that the water be filtered before it is consumed. Rain water is pure and free of things like chlorine. However, it may pick up pollutants in the air as it falls and it may become contaminated after its collection. Drinking stored rain water is not advised unless it is the only source of water to drink.

Do rainwater tanks affect the environment? The answer is yes, but that may not be a bad thing. Of course, rain that is captured in a tank is rain that does not fall to the ground. In some instances, heavy use of tanks can have the effect of drying out rivers and ponds or leaving stagnant water in them. On the flip side, it may prevent overflow to rivers and deter erosion, sedimentation and pollution. If the water collected is used locally and put back into the ground, it could have a stabilizing effect on the water quality in these bodies of water.