Rainwater Tank Plumbing Tips

Some countries such as the UK require planning permission for the installation of rain water tanks. Fortunately in South Africa, home-owners can install water tanks without any authorisation (except perhaps in certain estates where building codes apply). Here are some universal plumbing tips for installing rainwater tanks at home.

Installing a good rainwater tank is a perfect way of making sure you use one of nature’s greatest resources. If you happen to live in the country, then you will find great use of rainwater and what it can offer. If you happen to live in an urban area, then using rainwater tanks will give you a chance to stay separate and independent from the local water supply. In many cases you can use rainwater instead of tap water during times of water restriction. If you have a water tank that happens to be plumbed into the house, then you can use it for flushing the toilet or your washing machine.

• You should start by researching the requirements for a rainwater tank. Look for the local laws and health authorities to check the regulations for rainwater use. Check the general health advise for rainwater tanks as well and see whether you can get assistance and rebates to help cover the cost of the tank.

• You should choose a supplier and a system that works for your needs. You should look for information from a number of different sources. Check out and consider what could be the best possible rainwater tank for your needs. The size, location and maintenance requirements of your future purchase will play a great role in your choices. You should decide whether you plan on using rainwater outdoors, indoors or in both locations. Talk to different manufacturers and suppliers so you can figure out the best possible solution. Check the warranty for different types of tanks as well, since they will vary according to the materials and

• If you plan on using your rainwater indoors, you will need to ensure its installed by a licensed plumber. You will need to talk to one to ensure the water tank you plan on buying is suitable for your home’s plumbing. Ask the suppliers for the costs of pumps, flush diverters and other extra fittings as well as the requirements for specific tanks, optimal positioning and other details you may need to cover before the tank arrives.

• Install the new water tank either by yourself or have a professional do it for you. If you happen to have to install it yourself, you will need the instructions from the supplier before the tank arrives so you can make use of them. If someone else is installing it, make sure you ask them on how the system works and what its maintenance needs may be. You may need to have a builder check for lead flashing and to seal it if you happen to be using an older-style roof for water collection. You may also check for special treatments for your gutter, such as a screen to filter out debris.

• You will need to install a flush diverter. Whenever you have a good amount of rain, the device will keep the first flow of water from entering your water tank, as it will likely have contaminants and dust. You will need to make sure your tank will be screened and safe from insects, animals and birds. You don’t want mosquitoes making a home in there or some poor squirrel or rat drowning in it.

Plumbing Services Kensington can offer plumbing repairs to irrigation systems, septic tank systems etc.

Source: Guest post by Heather Roberts

Rainwater tanks should be chosen according to local rainfall patterns, amount of space available, size of collection area as well as aesthetic reasons; JoJo Tanks in South Africa offers a diverse range of water tanks of all types and sizes, click on the links below for more information.

JoJo Tanks South Africa offer a wide range of products such as plastic water tanks and chemical tanks to suit every household, business or agricultural need, including silo tanks and silo tank stands as well as other high quality JoJo Tanks products.  See JoJo Tanks’ VERTICAL TANKS, HORIZONTAL TANKS (transporter tanks), STEEL TANK STANDS and OTHER JOJO PRODUCTS and see JoJo Tanks’ NEW 6000 LITRE UNDERGROUND TANKS. Also see our FAQ and WATER TANK PRICES.