Installation of water tanks below ground level is a great idea to save on the limited space around homes and commercial properties. The saved spaces can serve as driveways, gardens, swimming pool areas, and playgrounds. However, not every tank is a great underground tank.
An underground water tank must guarantee water safety and capacity to meet the users’ requirements. Underground water tanks can serve as the primary water source or complement the council supply. Unfortunately, choosing the correct tank is not as straightforward as it sounds. Here are some things to consider when choosing an underground water tank.
Cost
We all want products that offer the best value for money. Therefore, choosing a cost-friendly underground tank with all the pros attached is suitable. However, each option has a few cons that can deter buyers. For example, high-grade polyethylene water tanks are inexpensive but have limited capacity. On the other hand, concrete tanks have unlimited capacity and great durability, but their cost is high. Therefore, the final selection depends on your budget and needs.
Design Options
Different water tank designs are available for domestic and commercial use. Traditionally, steel water tanks were the preferred option for underground water tanks. However, steel is vulnerable to corrosion and rusting. Other options for build material include food-grade polyethylene and fibreglass. These options efficiently withstand corrosion and last relatively long. Moreover, the tanks are light.
Concrete is another design option that has stood the test of time. Several ancient kingdoms used concrete water tanks, including the ancient Romans, due to the numerous benefits. As proof of their durability, some of the ancient tanks still stand.
Size
Ultimately, size matters when it comes to underground water tanks. However, bigger isn’t always better. The needs of the users guide the size of an underground tank. Commercial properties often need large tanks due to the high water demand. On the other hand, domestic users can get away with smaller tanks.
Furthermore, size is guided by the application. Large tanks are the ideal choice for users who are not on the council supply or live in areas with unreliable water supply. On the other hand, smaller tanks are practical for owners who receive a steady council supply.
Construction and Installation
Adequate consideration of how an underground water tank is built and installed must be made before settling on a tank option. Typically, prefabricated tanks are easy to install since most outlet and inlet channels are in-built. Furthermore, the installation site is often strengthened to ensure the tank is shielded from subsurface forces.
On the other hand, concrete tanks are constructed on-site and involve a labour-intensive approach. Furthermore, reinforcement is embedded into the design to withstand the high pressures from the soil and water. Some underground tanks are installed in backyards, while others are constructed into the foundation of the main building. As expected, concrete tanks take a long time to fit and involve a complex installation process.
Therefore, consider the construction and installation process as you should choose an underground tank. Moreover, account for the skilled labour requirements and permits for ground excavation.
Maintainance.
Underground water tanks require good maintenance for optimal function. Some of the problems resolved with regular maintenance include sludge deposition and leaking. Nonetheless, each type of underground water tank has unique maintenance needs. For example, concrete tanks require thorough scrutiny to identify and seal cracks. On the other hand, steel tanks are uniquely vulnerable to rust and often need rust protection.
As a rule of thumb, the bigger the tank, the more the maintenance needs since the tanks are more vulnerable to damage from high pressures and exposure to contaminants.
Soil Texture
The ground that covers your underground tank is as important as the tank. Hard rocks present a challenge in excavation and require reinforced installations. Most underground tank installations in hard rock areas are concrete. Nonetheless, if you are lucky to sit on softer ground, the installation will be fairly straightforward, and your choices are unlimited.
Similarly, properties that sit on high water retention soil require a special approach in excavation, and the tank selection should account for possible water damage. In this case, PEP tanks are the preferred choice.
All in all, there is a lot to consider while selecting an underground tank for a property. Therefore, it’s advisable to do thorough research and contact professionals. You don’t want to make a mistake on an installation that will last years.
Thomas Jackson is a dynamic and talented content writer at WonderWorldSpace.com, renowned for his engaging and informative articles. Beyond his professional pursuits in writing, Jack is also known for his deep passion for fitness, which not only shapes his lifestyle but also influences his work.