Do water tanks save money?

Sometimes, a rainy day can be exactly what you want!

No, we’re not talking about the sweet ambient sound of rain pattering on the roof; or the calming sight of rain running down your window- we’re talking about actual money falling out of the sky.

If you have a rainwater tank, you can store rainwater and reuse it around your home. This is a great way to save on your water bills and prepare for water shortages. 

To make sure you don’t spend excess money buying a water tank, let’s make sure you buy the right tank for what you need– and preferably one that will last.

What you need to know:

Before you go out and buy a rainwater tank, you need to consider a few things. First of all, check with your local council about any regulations when it comes to installing a tank. 

Some require you to have a level base and be a certain distance away from the fence line. 

As for the costs, small basic water tanks start at around $700, and the price rises with the size sophistication of the tank. 

The type of material also affects the value of the water tank as it correlates with the tank’s size and strength. You also need to take piping from the roof to the tank into consideration, which can add more to the final cost as you will need to get a qualified plumber to carry this out. 

In order to maximise the water you harvest, make sure your gutters directly flow into the water tank. 

The way you use the water tank will also determine if you are going to need to hire a plumber or not. If you are using it to wash the cars, water the garden, and fill the pool, then you won’t need a plumber. 

However, if you want to use it to flush the toilet, or use the water for a washing machine, then you’ll need a licenced plumber. 

If you have a small home, then you can go with a cheaper (slim) option. While they won’t hold as much water, they still contain a significant amount that can be saved from your water bill.

Speak to a tank expert or a licenced plumber as they can give you advice on what suits your situation best. They will also be up to date with rules and regulations regarding the installation.