Investing in a rainwater tank is one of the smartest moves you can make for your home. Not only does it reduce your water bills and environmental footprint, but it also adds significant value to your property.

However, with so many options on the market, how do you choose the one that’s right for you? Here is everything you need to consider before making the splash.

1. Finding the Perfect Fit: Size and Shape

Before falling in love with a specific tank, you need to look at your available space. Are you tucking it down a narrow side-passage, or do you have a wide-open paddock?

• Slimline Tanks: Ideal for narrow spaces alongside the house.
• Round Tanks: The traditional choice for larger properties with more room.
• Logistics: Don’t forget to account for plumbing, pump covers, and easy access for future cleaning.

2. Calculating Your Capacity

How much water do you actually need? To find the "sweet spot," consider two things:

1. Usage: Are you just watering a small herb garden, or topping up a swimming pool and running the laundry?
2. Harvest Potential: This is a simple equation of your roof area multiplied by your local annual rainfall.

Understanding your collection potential ensures you don’t buy a tank that stays half-empty or one that overflows constantly. Use our Water Calculator to determine your ideal capacity.

3. Choosing the Right Material

The environment where the tank will live usually dictates the material.

• Polyethylene (Poly): Lightweight, durable, and easy to install. These are generally the most versatile for residential use.
• Metal & Concrete: Great for massive capacities, but they are built on-site and cannot be moved once they are down.

Pro Tip: No matter what you choose, ensure it is Australian Standard approved for peace of mind and longevity.

4. Aesthetics: Making It Blend In

A water tank doesn't have to be an eyesore. Modern tanks come in a variety of Heritage and Contemporary colors (like Colorbond shades) to complement your home’s exterior. Proper placement and color selection can turn a utility item into a seamless part of your landscaping. RapidPlas have 24 colours matched to the popular Colorbond range.

5. Water Quality & Pest Control

If you plan on drinking your rainwater, quality is non-negotiable.

• Filtration: Use first-flush diverters and in-line filters to keep debris out.
• Pests: Ensure your tank features mosquito-proof stainless steel screens.
• Algae Prevention: Choose a tank made from food-grade, light-blocking materials, with a a light and dust cover over the strainer. If sunlight can't get in, algae can't grow.

6. Installation & Accessories

A tank is only as good as its foundation. To protect your warranty and ensure the tank's lifespan, you must install it on a level, stable base (usually compacted crusher dust or a concrete slab) according to manufacturer specs.

Don’t forget the "Extras":

• Pumps: To get the water from the tank to your tap.
• UV Filtration: If the water is for internal household use.
• Firefighting Fittings: Essential for properties in high-risk bushfire zones.

7. Pure Water, Zero Effort

A common misconception is that rainwater tanks require heavy cleaning, but a modern setup is remarkably self-sufficient. By using a two-stage protection system, you can ensure your water stays crystal clear for years:

• The Rain Head (Leaf Eater): Installed on your downpipe, this "sloped screen" deflects leaves and debris onto the ground before they ever enter your pipes.
• The Stainless Steel Strainer: This sits at the tank’s inlet as your final line of defense. It is woven fine enough to keep out even the smallest pests and mosquitoes.
• The Dust Cover: By blocking sunlight at the entry point, the dust cover prevents algae from growing, keeping your water fresh and healthy.

When these simple accessories are in place, the system effectively cleans itself. You won’t have to worry about "sludge" or heavy maintenance; you can just enjoy a reliable supply of high-quality water.

Why Choose RapidPlas?

Buying a rainwater tank is a long-term investment. At RapidPlas, we’ve been manufacturing world-class tanks for over 35 years. Our team has the local expertise to help you navigate everything from tank size to pump selection.

Ready to start harvesting?

If you have questions or need a custom quote, talk to the experts.

• Call us: 02 6765 0700
• Contact us: https://www.rapidplas.com.au/pages/contact