Rainwater tanks and water restrictions
LEVEL 2 water restrictions are coming into effect on December 10.
To help reduce your household’s water consumption, you may want to think about installing a Rainwater Tank.
According to Sydney Water: “Rainwater tanks are an exemption to water restrictions as long as the tank isn’t topped up from, or switched to the drinking supply”.
Collecting and redirecting rainwater from the roof to use in your home and garden can reduce demand on your water supply. The simplest arrangement for a rainwater tank is to connect it to your downpipes and use it for watering the garden.
For maximum benefit, tanks should be used for internal purposes such as toilet flushing and clothes washing along with garden use.
Things to consider before installing a rainwater tank
The amount of downpipes that you can get to the rainwater tank will determine the size and type of tank you will need for your installation.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO INSTALL A RAINWATER TANK?
The best time to install a rainwater tank is when you don’t need it.
Fitting your tank at the beginning of the wet season will ensure that you have as much water as possible to sustain you during the dry season.
DOES A RAINWATER TANK NEED REGULAR MAINTENANCE?
Ideally; you shouldn’t have to do any maintenance on your tank. Before you buy check that the tank comes with a leaf diverter. It’s also worth checking whether the tank has a “first flush” device.
This diverts the first lot of water, which may contain debris from your roof away from the tank.
The tank should be inspected internally for sludge build up every few years.
INSTALLATION OF LARGE RAINWATER TANKS IN SMALL SPACES
Using a slim-line rainwater tanks that fit against a wall or fence may be a good option in small spaces.
These particular tanks can be lined up in a row with the water flowing from one tank into the next to form one big tank.
HIDDEN RAINWATER STORAGE TANKS
Providing that your house is raised; an under house tank can be used. Under house tanks come as hard plastic tanks or if access is tight there are also bladder tanks that can be assembled in place.
HOW CAN I MAKE USE OF THE RAINWATER AROUND THE HOUSE?
Firstly, think about what the water you harvest will be used for. This will help you decide what size rainwater tank you’ll need and which extras it should have.
If the water is for home use, such as for a washing machine or toilet, you’ll need filters and also a pump.
Our qualified team here at OTJ are able to supply and install rainwater tanks to the Sydney Metropolitan area and surrounds. We’re also able to assist you with any questions you may have.
Contact us today on PH: 1300 171 125
https://www.onthejobplumbing.com.au/book-now/
FURTHER READING
https://www.sydneywater.com.au/SW/plumbing-building-developing/plumbing/rainwater-tanks/index.htm
http://www.yourhome.gov.au/water/rainwater
https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/peace-of-mind-rainwater-tank-owners-the-big-winners-in-wake-of-new-water-restrictions-20190531-p51t6m.html
