An underground water tank is a structure that is buried beneath the surface of your earth’s ground. It stores water, as the name suggests, and makes use of locally available groundwater for its operation. They are mostly preferred to surface tanks, because of their simplicity in installation and maintenance.
Underground water tanks are a great investment for any home and business. They will keep your water tank hidden from view, giving your space a more appealing aesthetic.
An underground water tank can also be used as a water reservoir for fire protection, irrigation, and livestock watering. The tanks are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions such as strong winds and heavy rains.
But before you make your decision on what type of underground water tank to buy, there are some questions that you should ask yourself first.
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions businesses and homeowners have about underground water tanks:
1. What is the best material for underground water tanks?
Concrete is the most popular choice of material for underground water tanks, mainly because it is durable and easy to maintain. Other materials used include plastic, fibreglass, and steel.
The underground water tanks available at Versatile Tanks are made from specially formulated concrete which is strong, durable, and long-lasting, making it an ideal material for our water storage tanks. It’s also resistant to corrosion, so it won’t rust or deteriorate over time.
2. How do you install an underground tank?
A few steps are involved in the installation process:
- Excavation and trenching
The area where the tank will be installed must be dug out at least 3-4 feet depending upon the size of the water tank. The area must then be trenched to allow room for the tank and any other utilities that may need to be installed.
- Installation of the tank
The installation team will install the underground water tank according to your specifications and directions, including any necessary modifications or additions.
- Backfill, compaction, and grading
Once the underground water tank is installed, it is backfilled with dirt until it is flush with the ground. The surrounding area is also graded so that it does not present an uneven surface for people walking by or using vehicles on it.
3. How does an underground water tank work?
The underground water tank is a great way to store water. It can be used in any place where you need extra water supply such as in your garden, farm, or home. The underground tank has a base that is filled with water, and it keeps the water safe from evaporation, sunlight, and other harmful agents.
It’s important to know how an underground water storage tank works before installing one in your home or property. An underground water tank stores water in a large underground container buried below ground level. The water is pumped into the tank using electricity and gravity so that it flows into the tank naturally when there is a demand for it. The pump will then send it back out when needed through pipes connected to taps or sprinklers around the property.
4. What are the benefits of an underground water tank?
There are many benefits to having an underground water tank installed on your property.
- Reduced risk of contamination.
- Easy to install and maintain.
- Water can be stored underground indefinitely, making it available whenever you need it.
- Underground water tanks tend to last longer than above-ground tanks due to their ability to withstand harsh weather conditions without rusting away like surface tanks do when exposed directly to wind or rainwater.
5. Which is better: plastic or concrete water tanks?
Concrete is by far the most durable material for an underground water tank. It can withstand extreme weather conditions and has a long lifespan. Concrete water tanks are also non-porous, so they will not release any pollutants into your water supply over time. The only disadvantage of concrete tanks is their weight. They are generally heavier than plastic tanks.
6. What size water tank do I need for a family of 4?
The answer depends on how much water your household uses every day and how long you want to go between fill-ups. A tank that can contain at least 200 litres is necessary for a household of four to five persons. Consider water storage tanks of at least 300 litres for families with more than five members.
7. How long should a concrete water tank last?
The lifespan of an underground water tank is determined by the quality and composition of the concrete used.
Good quality concrete has a lifespan between 30-50 years. However, if the concrete is not properly cured before use, it can shorten the lifespan of your tank.
At Versatile Tanks, we use a uniquely formulated concrete formula for underground water tanks that ensures to last a lifetime.
8. Where can the underground tank be kept?
The underground water tank can be kept in a variety of places. It is possible to install it on your lawn, backyard, or patio. However, it is important to get in touch with your local council and get the necessary building permits before you start excavating your garage or backyard, as you may have to pay hefty fines if you build on your property without a permit.