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 Rainwater Tanks South Australia. With these tanks, one can collect rain and stored it for later use.

In North America, these tanks are also called rain barrels, in the UK they are known as rain butts and in Australia they are called Poly Tanks. No matter what you call them, their purpose is to collect water from rainstorms that can be stored and used later. Usually the tanks are above ground receptacles but sometimes they are built in the ground. This is particularly the case in extremely arid climates where residents fully expect long periods of drought.

Tanks may be made of galvanized steel, concrete, plastic, fiberglass or stainless steel. The stainless steel and fiberglass versions tend to be rust proof and chemical-resistant. They are often found on rooftops, concrete patios and driveways and anywhere else with an impervious surface.

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.

First of all, steps can be taken before the water is collected to help keep it safe. Some tanks include things like screen coverings to prevent dirt, debris, bird droppings and insects from getting inside. Selecting an opaque tank is wise to keep sunlight out and thus reducing the risk of algae growth and an overrun of bacteria. A plastic lining is good to prevent leaks and help maintain high water quality.

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.

How do these tanks affect the environment? Well, obviously any water that is collected in a tank is water that will not reach the ground. If there is widespread use of tanks in a certain area, it can impact the amount of water that runs off into rivers and streams. It could cause stagnant ponds and dry riverbeds. However, it can also help prevent sedimentation and erosion as well as pollution. If the water that is collected is put back into the same area, it could very well stabilize the flow of rivers and the quality of pond water.

This rainwater tank info article was brought to you by Water Tanks Queensland, Water Tanks Melbourne

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