It seems as though sometimes we get way too much rain and then all of a sudden it stops coming down and we do not have enough. A solution to this inequity is the use of . With these tanks, one can collect rain and stored it for later use.
Rainwater tanks are also referred to as rain barrels and in the United Kingdom they call them rain butts. Whatever you call them, their function is to capture rain water that is stored and used when water is scarce. Most of the time above ground tanks are used but sometimes in-ground tanks are installed, particularly in more arid climates when times of drought is all but certain. The most common type is the Poly Water Tanks
Types of tanks may be concrete, plastic or galvanized steel as well as stainless steel and fiberglass which are chemical resistant and rust proof. They are found often on the tops of roofs as well as patios, driveways and other areas with waterproof surfaces.
The uses of the collected water vary. Most commonly it is used to irrigate crops. It is also used for everyday household activities like washing the car, flushing the toilet, using the washing machine and watering small gardens and lawns. It may also be used as drinking water. If so, extra attention must be given to the water and the tanks to be certain the water is safe for consumption.
A well equipped tank will make it easier to have a drinkable, uncontaminated water supply. Dirt and debris as well as insects and bird droppings can be kept out with a screen cover. A tank that is opaque will disallow the penetration of sunlight and thus minimize algae and bacteria growth. A plastic lining inside the tank aids in leak prevention and keeps water quality higher.
It is also imperative that, even if these steps are taken, any water that is drunk is properly filtered. Even thought rain water is pure, it may become contaminated after collection. And while rain does not contain chlorine, air pollutants can affect the water after it is gathered. It is advised not to drink water from rainwater tanks unless there are no other sources of drinkable water.
The use of tanks for rain collection can impact the environment, either positively or negatively. Wide use of these tanks will lessen the amount of water that reaches the ground in certain areas and limit the amount that reaches streams. Depending on where the use of tanks is taking place, this may prevent erosion, sedimentation and pollution. On the other hand, it may cause stagnated ponds and dried up rivers. If the collected rain is used within the same area and put back into the ground, it can actually have the effect of stabilizing ponds and rivers.
This rainwater tank info article was brought to you by Rain Water Tanks Brisbane, Water Tanks Melbourne
