Setting down a water tank to harvest rainwater to store for your family sounds easy enough right?
There are a few crucial things that MUST be done to ensure not only your water tank performs as best it can, but also the safety of your site and property, your family and the crew installing your tank!
1. Check the table below
Be sure to have a look at the table below to see the minimum pad sizes, sand and aggregate volumes and the required pre-fill amount of water for each tank.
2. The Tank pad must be level
Ensure your tank pad is stable and constructed using clean inert sand that is free of any debris. This will prevent any slippage and ensure your tank stays puncture free.
3. The tank pad must be at least one metre larger than the diameter of your tank.
Ensure your new tank pad is AT LEAST one metre larger in diameter than your water tank. It never hurts to allow a little extra room as well. While you’re doing this step, make sure the general area is clear from trenches, building materials or any other hazards, this will allow installers adequate room to move and install safely. Be sure to move any flammable or combustible items from the area to help out with bushfire preparedness as well.
4. For sloping tank sites, divert water away from the tank.
Always ensure that you have adequate drainage for groundwater and that it diverts away from your water tank. Erosion can negatively affect the integrity of your brand-new tank.
5. Use a non-corrosive aggregate to retain your pad material.
A non-corrosive aggregate must be placed around the base perimeter of the tank, once it has been installed. This aggregate helps to prevent the tank pad from eroding away and keeps your tank in place.
6. Retaining wall.
A retaining wall may be required to maintain pad integrity, with sloping/uneven sites. The last thing you want is your tank slipping away due to the gradient of the ground.
7. Pre-fill your tank.
Once your tank has been installed, it is important to fill it with the amount of water specified in the table below. This initial fill acts as an anchor weight, to help prevent movement from occurring in high wind/stormy areas.
* For all 3 ring tanks (3.24M High), Pioneer recommends using a 150mm crusher dust base rather than using clean inert sand.
Following the above process will help to ensure that your tank pad is prepared correctly. However, in some areas where clean inert sand is not easily sourced, Pioneer recommends also installing a geotextile membrane for additional liner protection.
Before you start preparing your site for installation of your water tank, Pioneer Water Tanks also recommends you contact your local shire to see if there are any regulations or restrictions in place.
If you are not sure how much water storage you need, Check out our handy calculator here
