Choosing the Right Rain Water Tanks
How to Decide Between Poly Water Tanks, Concrete Water Tanks, and Steel Water Tanks
When selecting a rainwater tank, it’s clear there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Water tanks come in various sizes, shapes, costs, capacities, and materials, each with distinct pros and cons. The primary materials for water tanks are poly plastic, concrete, and steel. Whether you choose an aboveground or underground option, each type serves different purposes, so it’s essential to determine which water tank best suits your specific needs.
Polyethylene (Poly) Water Tanks
Poly water tanks are among the most popular options on the market due to their versatility and affordability. Made from high-density polyethylene, a durable and flexible thermoplastic, poly tanks are both strong and lightweight. This combination makes them easy to install and available in various shapes and sizes, from highly compact slimline water tanks to large-capacity tanks up to 50,000L and beyond.
Benefits of Poly Water Tanks
- Affordability: Poly tanks are generally more cost-effective than their concrete and steel counterparts. The plastic material is cheaper to produce but still offers high quality and longevity.
- Durability: Resistant to rust and corrosion, poly water tanks are designed to last. All our poly water tanks are manufactured to stringent AS/NZS 4766 standards using food-safe plastics, making them safe for drinking water.
- Versatility: Available in a range of styles to suit various spaces, poly water tanks are adaptable to different settings, whether residential, commercial, or agricultural.
- Longevity: Our poly water tanks come with a 20-year warranty but often last up to 40 years or more, providing excellent long-term value.
Ideal Uses for Poly Water Tanks
Poly water tanks are suitable for a range of applications:
- Residential Use: Ideal for garden irrigation and reducing reliance on mains water. Their lightweight and various sizes make them perfect for homes of all sizes.
- Urban Environments: Poly tanks, especially slimline models, fit well in narrow spaces, making them ideal for urban homes with limited space.
- Agricultural Purposes: Suitable for small-scale farming, such as watering livestock or crops.
Concrete Water Tanks
Traditionally, most water tanks were made from concrete, and they remain a preferred choice for those seeking unrivaled strength and lifespan. Pre-cast concrete water tanks are typically made of cement mixed with water, often with added steel mesh to enhance structural integrity.
Benefits of Concrete Water Tanks
- Durability: Concrete water tanks are known for their incredible durability, often lasting a lifetime without the need for significant maintenance.
- pH Balance: Concrete is the only tank material that can naturally balance the pH level of stored water, preventing it from becoming acidic. Many people prefer water from concrete tanks for its taste, often described as colder and fresher.
- Strength: These tanks are incredibly strong and can withstand harsh environmental conditions, making them suitable for permanent installations.
Ideal Uses for Concrete Water Tanks
Concrete water tanks are best suited for:
- Permanent Installations: Due to their weight and immobility, concrete tanks are ideal for permanent setups where the tank won’t need to be moved.
- Large-Scale Water Storage: Perfect for properties requiring large amounts of water storage, such as farms or rural homes.
- Firefighting Reserves: Concrete tanks are a reliable choice for properties needing a dedicated water supply for firefighting.
Steel Corrugated Water Tanks
For those looking for the highest quality tank, especially for greater storage requirements, steel water tanks are an excellent choice. We specialize in Kingspan, a manufacturer of modular steel water tanks made from ZINCALUME® or COLORBOND® steel. These tanks are galvanized with a zinc coating to protect against rust and corrosion and include an inner liner made from poly plastic, which provides an extra layer of protection from water contamination.
Benefits of Steel Water Tanks
- High Quality: Steel tanks, particularly those made from ZINCALUME® or COLORBOND® steel, offer superior durability and protection against rust and corrosion.
- Modular Design: The modular nature of these tanks allows them to be customized to fit specific needs, making them versatile for various applications.
- Easy Repair: The inner poly liner can be easily repaired, wet or dry, ensuring that any leaks can be addressed quickly and efficiently.
Ideal Uses for Steel Water Tanks
Steel water tanks are ideal for:
- Rural and Agricultural Use: Suitable for large-scale water storage needs in rural areas, including farms and ranches.
- Industrial Applications: Provides a reliable water source for industrial processes and large commercial properties.
- Custom Installations: Due to their modular nature, steel tanks can be tailored to fit specific site requirements.
- Rural and Agricultural Use: Suitable for large-scale water storage needs in rural areas, including farms and ranches.
Slimline Water Tanks
When space is at a premium, slimline water tanks offer an excellent solution. Made from either steel or poly plastic, these tanks have a narrow profile, making them ideal for high-density living areas and smaller suburban lots. They can be positioned down the side of a home, tucked under eaves, or placed next to a driveway, maximizing the use of available space.
Benefits of Slimline Water Tanks
- Space-Efficient: Slimline tanks are designed to fit into tight spaces without compromising capacity, making them perfect for urban environments.
- Versatile Design Options: Available in various materials, including steel and poly plastic, to suit different aesthetic and functional needs.
- Suitable for Smaller Capacities: Typically range from 500L to 5,000L, making them ideal for smaller water storage needs.
Why Choose Bluewater Tanks?
Choosing the right water tank can be challenging. As a rule of thumb, for water storage needs up to 30,000L, a poly water tank is a great choice. For storage needs above that, up to 500,000L, steel water tanks are recommended. If space is limited, a slimline tank may be the best option.
At Bluewater Tanks, we offer over 50 years of experience in providing high-quality water tanks and personalized customer service throughout the South West and greater Western Australia. Whether you need a poly, concrete, or steel water tank, we provide expert advice and warranties on all our products to ensure peace of mind.
Contact us today on 1300 668 570 or reach out online for all your underground water and rainwater tank needs.
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Albany WA 6330