Rainwater tanks have been around, in one form or another, for a very long time. But thanks to changes in manufacturing and technology, the types of rainwater tanks available for household use are getting broader and broader.
While the traditional steel rainwater tank may still be great for larger properties, they’re not suitable for smaller suburban homes. Which is one of the reasons why plastic rainwater tanks have seen a surge in popularity in recent years, especially since many town councils now require all new dwellings to have a rainwater tank.
Made from UV treated, food-grade polyethylene, plastic rainwater tanks are long-lasting, structurally strong and easy to install. Let’s look at some of the reasons you should consider buying a plastic rainwater tank for your property.
Ease of installation
While traditional tank options such as steel are so heavy they need a crane to help install them, plastic water tanks are lightweight and can easily be moved into position. This is an advantage not only for saving on transportation and installation costs, but it also means you can move the tank should you choose to change your backyard layout.
Less surface area preparation
Heavier tanks such as steel or concrete need their ‘bed’ significantly worked on before the tank is installed. This preparation can involve expensive landscape grading and installing a concrete base to stop the tank’s bottom from rusting. Plastic tanks can sit on any flat surface as long as there’s no sharp debris or items underneath.
More choice and variety
Plastic water tanks are made from moulded polyethylene, so there are so many choices available to fit your needs. You can choose a round plastic water tank such as the Yarrawonga 10,000LT which is great if you have the space, and plan to use your rainwater for the house and garden.
Smaller options include slimline varieties such as the S-Line 2000LT which is a great option for along the side of the house if you’re on a small block. It’s only 565mm wide so can fit into a garden bed quite easily.
Additionally, colour options are far greater when you’re choosing a plastic water tank. Subtle greens, beiges, greys and burnt sienna blend in with your fencing colour, as well as the plants around your property.
While steel or concrete tanks can be an eyesore, the right selection of plastic rainwater tank can blend into your garden really nicely.
No rust or corrosion
Polyethylene is moisture-vapour resistant, which means it won’t rust or corrode like other tank materials can. It also stands up well to weathering exposure, such as wind, saltwater, and harsh sunlight.
Safe plastic for drinking water
Polyethylene is a solvent-resistant plastic that’s considered to be safe for carting drinkable water. It’s food-grade which means it contains no known harmful chemicals unlike many other types of plastic.
Incredibly strong and durable
Your plastic water tank can last for up to 20 years, or even longer if kept in optimal conditions. The rotomoulding process of building a polyethylene tank bonds plastic using speed and heat with the use of a mould to create the tank’s required shape.
This produces a more durable end product that is less likely to fall apart than steel tanks, which have their parts welded or bolted together, as well as side seams, joints and weld lines that can weaken over time.
Highly Recyclable
Unlike many plastics that take generations to break down, polyethylene is a highly recyclable plastic. Additionally, the manufacturing process for polyethylene is much cleaner than other plastics and produces a minimal amount of harmful emitted substances and waste.
Choosing a plastic rainwater tank for your property
Colour, water quality, cost, and ease of installation are all key benefits of using polyethylene rainwater tanks. They’re relatively inexpensive compared with heavier options such as steel and concrete too.
When you’ve decided to install a polyethylene tank on your property, it’s important to choose one that’s the right size for your water consumption needs and will fit in your designated space.
You should also consider whether you need additional rainwater harvesting equipment such as pumps and filters to ensure your tank setup ends up fit for your purpose.
ASC Tanks have been supplying Australian homes with rainwater tanks since 2007. No matter the size of your home, ASC Water Tanks can provide solutions for every household. We only sell high-grade Australian Made water tanks to support our economy and to deliver a superior product to our customers.
Give us a call on 1300 229 606 to discuss the right water tank for your property.
Hello this is Leo Harry. We have recently purchased a new house, but due to city requirements, it must meet specific things (safety and such) before we move in.
Hi Leo
Different councils have their own requirements and restrictions around the installation of a water tank, and what kind of tank you can install. Get in touch with us and we can help you.