How to Care for Your Concrete

« Back to Home

Answering a Few Common Questions About Underground Water Tanks

Posted on

Underground water tanks are used by production facilities as well as by homeowners; storing rainwater can mean reducing the amount of fresh water needed for a company's production process and for jobs like hosing down concrete or the outside of a house or other structure. If you're considering investing in an underground water tank for your home or for a business you own, note a few commonly asked questions about these tanks, and this can help you decide on the right type for your property and your water storage needs.

Can a tank be used for storage of drinking water?

When considering your options, you should keep in mind that a tank used to store water that will be used for drinking, bathing or cooking usually has more stringent requirements than any other types of water storage tanks. Even if you have a filter connected to the water tank and use chemical softeners and other such treatments, you may still be legally obligated to choose a certain type of tank for storing water that will be used for human consumption or bathing. Be sure you note to your water tank installer your intended use of the stored water so they can help you to choose one that passes any local requirements and so you don't end up having to eventually remove and replace that tank!

How does water actually get into the tank?

If you store a rain barrel next to your home or garage, it's obvious how water gets into that container! However, an underground tank may be connected to the gutters and downspouts of a home or other such building so that rainwater is then directed to the tank. That water may go through a filter or screen of some sort, but your tank installer can note what plumbing is needed to ensure the tank always has a steady supply of water.

How do you get water out of the tank?

An underground water tank will usually be outfitted with a pump so that you can easily pump water out and into another receptacle or attach the pump to a hose. If the water will be used indoors, whether that's for a home or production facility, the tank can be plumbed to the house or other structure. The pump then pulls water out of the tank and the plumbing pipes direct it to indoor faucets or other such fixtures.


Share