Choosing the Right Size Water Tank: A Guide to Optimal Water Storage and Usage

Selecting the correct size for your rainwater tank is essential for efficiently meeting your household's water needs. With around 26% of Australian households having one or more rainwater tanks, understanding the factors that determine the appropriate tank size is crucial.

The first step in choosing the right water tank is to calculate your catchment capacity. This involves determining how much rainwater you can collect from your roof and other structures. To find this, multiply the average annual rainfall (in millimetres – mm) by the total roof area (in square metres – m2). This calculation gives you the potential amount of water you can collect annually.

Next, consider your household's water usage. While the average Australian uses around 120,000 litres of water per year, this figure can vary. For a more accurate estimate, Pioneer Water Tanks recommends starting with 60,000 litres of storage for one person and adding 30,000 litres for each additional person in the home.

Household needs vary, but common uses for rainwater include drinking, cooking, gardening, irrigation, laundry, washing machines, toilet flushing, and fire protection. These needs will influence the size of the tank you require.

The available space on your property will also affect your tank choice. Polymaster water tanks are ideal for properties with very limited space, while larger steel tanks offer better value for more extensive properties.

Utilising rainwater tanks offers numerous advantages. They can significantly reduce or even eliminate water bills and provide fresher-tasting drinking water. With a rainwater tank, you can ensure a reliable water supply for your garden year-round and achieve independence from municipal water supplies. Additionally, rainwater tanks enhance fire protection, support sustainable off-grid living, and reduce wasted stormwater runoff. They also offer water for washing machines, laundry, and car washing. Furthermore, they contribute to environmental conservation by reducing the demand on public water systems.

Once you've assessed your catchment capacity, water usage, and available space, you can determine the best tank size for your needs. The goal is to balance your ability to harvest rainwater with your household's consumption, ensuring a reliable and efficient water supply.