Rainwater Tanks - What You Need to Know

Rainwater Tanks

Do you remember when you used to be able to wash your car, fill your pool and water your garden without thinking twice about it? Australia is facing its longest and most severe drought on record; many places have enforced water restrictions on its residents which stop people from undertaking these tasks we have taken for granted for so long. More and more Australians are deciding to have a rainwater tank installed at their home.

A rainwater tank brings many benefits. The primary reason for a lot of people is to beat the water restrictions. When you install a rainwater tank at your property, you will have access to water again to wash you car, do the laundry and more. When you have a tank installed you are also benefiting the environment by not being reliant on the water grid.

A tank installed with the right accessories can service all of your water needs, making you self reliant in this respect. Many choose to have a tank installed so as to have a reserve of water available during fire season. Some in rural areas are used to using only tank water for all of their needs.

Rain water can be used for a variety of functions. Gardening, washing clothes and flushing toilets are common uses. You can also drink rainwater you collect, but it is recommended that it is filtered first, especially if you are living in an urban area. Water from tanks is less salty, free of chlorine and fluoride and some people even say, tastes better.

When you make the decision to use rainwater, not only are you taking pressure off the water grid, but you can expect to see considerable savings on your water usage bill. Most of the water that we use goes to cleaning clothes, washing the car and gardening. Only a small percentage is used for drinking water so even if you only use water for a few things, you will still notice a difference.

Rainwater tanks are available in a large variety of shapes and sizes. When shopping for a tank, you first need to decide where you will fit it on your property. There are slim line tanks for those with limited space and larger round shaped tanks for others. Even a small tank can hold a considerable amount of water, but try to get the largest size you can in the space you have. Remember that one litre of water weighs one kilogram; you will need to have a strong and flat surface on which to host your water tank.

Around Australia, many people are finding that they are eligible for a rebate. Check with your local water authority to see if you fit into this category. It is now compulsory in many places for water tanks to be installed in new homes, or homes which are being renovated or extended.

Rainwater tanks not only save money but they are also helping the environment. Make a change to your home that will improve your lifestyle and also give a boost to the environment.



By David Cannell 
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3789644