Imagine the water suddenly stops running. No showers, no flushing toilets, no clean drinking water. That’s a scary thought, right? In today’s world, relying solely on the main water supply can be risky. Weather events, pipe bursts, or local emergencies can cut off your water without warning. This is why more homeowners are looking into keeping a backup supply—and that means investing in a good water storage tank for their home.
Choosing the perfect water storage tank, however, feels like a maze. Should you pick plastic or steel? Where will you even put it? These decisions involve size, safety, and cost, making the whole process confusing and stressful. You want reliability, but you don’t want a headache choosing the right model.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down everything you need to know about home water storage tanks. You will learn about the best materials, how to size the tank for your family, and simple steps for installation and maintenance. Keep reading to secure your home’s water future with confidence.
Top Water Storage Tanks For Home Recommendations
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Your Essential Guide to Buying Water Storage Tanks for Home
Having a reliable water storage tank at home offers peace of mind. Whether you face emergencies, need backup for irrigation, or want to conserve water, the right tank makes a big difference. This guide helps you choose the best option for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, check these important features first. These determine how well the tank works for you.
- Capacity: How much water do you need to store? Think about your family size and how long you need to be self-sufficient during an outage. Small tanks hold 50 gallons; large ones hold thousands.
- Footprint and Shape: Does the tank fit in your chosen space? Round tanks take up more ground space. Vertical, slim tanks fit better in tight spots.
- Inlet and Outlet Ports: Make sure the tank has the right size openings for connecting pipes. These connections must be strong and leak-proof.
- Opaqueness: A good tank must block sunlight. Sunlight causes algae to grow inside the water. Look for dark or opaque tanks.
Important Materials Matter
The material of the tank affects its cost, lifespan, and safety.
Polyethylene (Plastic) Tanks
These are the most common choice. They are lightweight, relatively inexpensive, and do not rust. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is usually the best plastic. It resists cracking and holds up well against weather.
Metal Tanks (Galvanized Steel or Stainless Steel)
Metal tanks are very strong and can store large volumes. Stainless steel is the safest for drinking water because it does not rust or leach chemicals. However, these tanks cost much more and require professional installation.
Fiberglass Tanks
Fiberglass is durable and resists corrosion well. They are often used for underground storage. They are heavier than plastic tanks.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all tanks are created equal. Small details change the tank’s quality significantly.
Improving Quality:
- NSF Certification: If you plan to store drinking water, ensure the tank has NSF (National Sanitation Foundation) approval. This means the plastic will not add harmful chemicals to your water.
- UV Stabilization: Good plastic tanks include UV inhibitors. These additives prevent the sun from making the plastic brittle over time.
- Thick Walls: Thicker walls mean the tank can hold more pressure and resist damage from impacts.
Reducing Quality:
- Light Colors: Tanks that are white or very light-colored let light pass through, encouraging algae growth.
- Cheap Plastic: Low-quality, thin plastic tanks break easily, especially in freezing temperatures.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you will actually use the tank. This guides your final decision.
Emergency Backup (Drinking Water):
For emergencies, most users choose opaque, food-grade plastic tanks between 150 and 500 gallons. These are easy to clean and maintain. They store water safely for long periods.
Rainwater Harvesting (Irrigation/Non-Potable Use):
Gardeners often use larger tanks (1,000 gallons or more) to catch roof runoff. For this, you need a tank with strong screening over the inlet to keep out leaves and debris. The water does not need to be certified for drinking.
Installation Ease:
Plastic tanks are usually easy to place on a level concrete pad. Metal tanks often need professional rigging and anchoring due to their weight when full.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Water Storage Tanks
Q: How often should I clean my water storage tank?
A: You should clean your tank at least once every one to two years, especially if the water is for drinking. Drain it completely and scrub the inside with a mild bleach solution.
Q: Can I put a plastic water tank outside in direct sun?
A: Yes, if the tank is UV-stabilized. However, opaque (dark-colored) tanks are always better because they block light and stop algae growth.
Q: What is the difference between food-grade and non-food-grade plastic?
A: Food-grade plastic is guaranteed not to leak harmful chemicals into the water. Only use food-grade tanks for water you might drink or cook with.
Q: Do I need a permit to install a large water tank?
A: This depends on your local city or county rules. Large tanks, especially those over 1,500 gallons, often require building permits and engineering approval.
Q: How much does a 500-gallon tank weigh when full of water?
A: Water weighs about 8.34 pounds per gallon. A 500-gallon tank full of water weighs over 4,170 pounds, plus the weight of the tank itself. You need a very strong base.
Q: Will my water freeze in the tank during winter?
A: Yes, if the tank is not buried or insulated. For cold climates, you must insulate the tank or use a heating element to prevent freezing and bursting.
Q: Should I bury my water tank?
A: Only tanks specifically designed for underground use should be buried. They must be strong enough to handle the weight of the soil above them without collapsing.
Q: What is the safest color for a drinking water tank?
A: Dark green, black, or opaque blue are the best colors because they prevent sunlight from entering the tank.
Q: Can I connect my home’s well pump directly to the storage tank?
A: Yes, you can connect your well pump to fill the tank. You will need a pressure switch system to control when the pump turns on and off as the water level changes.
Q: Are metal tanks better than plastic tanks?
A: Metal tanks are stronger and last longer, but they cost more and can rust if not stainless steel. Plastic tanks are cheaper, lighter, and resist rust completely.