Saving Money And Water With A Water Tank

*This is a collaborative post on saving money and water with a water tank

Water tanks are somewhat of an unsung hero, with the ability to lower your water bills if you’re metered, combat hosepipe bans, help minimise local flooding, and of course, boost your eco-conscious credentials. 

If you haven’t tapped into the uses of a water tank yet, let’s talk about why you should and how a water tank actually works.

What is a water tank?

Essentially, a water tank is a container, usually in a slim or barrel shape, that your gutter usually feeds into. They are typically made from plastic, but can also come in concrete and metal. Its primary function is to hold water, providing a reserve supply for when the main source is unavailable or insufficient, or just to provide another source of water that doesn’t run up your water bills. 

They have a tap at the bottom so that you can easily fill watering cans or clip on a hose. They can be used for a wide range of purposes – even for drinking water (potable water tanks only). Predominantly, they are used for collecting rainwater for gardening, agriculture, industrial or other non-potable (non-drinking) uses.

Why bother with a water tank?

We’re lucky enough to have access to water incredibly readily in the UK, so why utilise a water tank? Well, we’re also *lucky* enough to get a huge amount of rain in the UK! Why not collect this water and use it to water your plants or wash your car? It pays you back in less stress (and a bit in bills). 

If you’re on a meter, you’ll probably have noticed that your summer water bills spike – particularly if you’re an avid gardener. A water tank allows you to water your pots and vegetables for free, jet wash your car for free and never have to worry about hosepipe bans. 

You might be thinking that a water tank won’t be the most aesthetic addition to your garden… and sure, you might be right. However, today you can get your hands on lots of neat and slimline designs that are built to blend right into your outdoor set-up and not be an eyesore! Some simply look like planters.

Setting up a water tank

It is well worth doing, considering the benefits that it can bring. Firstly, you’ll need a solid and level foundation for your tank to sit on – think an even paved area. You’ll need to think about proper plumbing connections with flexible couplings and good support for all pipework to prevent any strain on the tank. You’ll also want to make sure that there is enough space around the tank for maintenance access, following manufacturer guidelines for internal and external clearances.

Don’t feel like you have to do it all yourself. With some tanks, like smaller and simpler tanks, set-up is an afternoon or weekend job. However, professional help with the set-up could be necessary, particularly if you’re dealing with a pressurised system and complex plumbing connections. 

Buying guide

So, you’re sold on getting a water tank! Where do you start with this purchase? Firstly, decide whether you’d like a potable or non-potable tank, depending on what you want to use it for. 

Size

Next, think about size. How big should you go? If you have a small garden or a balcony, opt for 100-200 litre water butts. These are perfect for collecting water for gardening tasks or perhaps car washing. For an average garden, look within the 200-500 litre range. You can choose a slimline option to sit nicely against a fence. 

If you’ve got the space, anything 1000 litres or above would be more than enough for larger jobs, such as thirsty lawns or tending to vegetable beds.

Cost

Let’s talk money. How much does a water tank cost? As you’d imagine, it depends on the size and usage. For a starter water tank of a smaller size, pricing typically sits around £50 – £120. Something within the 300 – 500 litre range is often around £120 – £300. You’ll pay the most for larger or underground systems, but these are usually more suitable for the pros looking to use them for more commercial or industrial purposes. 

It’s a good idea to start with one tank, and you can always add a second later down the line by linking them together.

Looking after your water tank

All in all, water tanks are really very low-maintenance. There will be a few small jobs seasonally that you’ll want to keep on your radar, but nothing scary.

For instance, in the Spring and Autumn, give your gutters a quick clear and rinse the little leaf filter. Keep the lid on in the Summer and just top it up from the tap if it’s been bone dry. In the Winter, insulate the tap if it is exposed and leave a bit of air space for freezing. Simple!

If you’re ready to try a water tank, keep it small and keep it neat. You’ll wonder why you didn’t do it years ago!