How to Choose the Right Underground Water Storage Tank
Investing in an underground tank will benefit you by saving property space, offering security from vandalism and tampering, and giving you a responsible water management solution. They further help maintain temperature, reduce cleaning needs, and are less susceptible to algae and microbial growth. However, selecting the right underground storage tank for potable water to handle droughts, natural disasters, and other unforeseen events is an ideal investment.
The Advantages of Investing in the Right Underground Water Storage Tank
Investing in a high-quality underground water storage tank offers numerous benefits, including space conservation, protection from vandalism, and enhanced sustainability in water management. These tanks also offer superior temperature regulation, minimize the need for frequent cleaning, and reduce the risk of algae and microbial growth. When designed and installed correctly, an underground water tank ensures that your water supply remains secure and resilient, even in the face of droughts, natural disasters, or other unforeseen events.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an Underground Water Containment Tank
Unlike typical water containment tanks, some technicalities should be considered when choosing suitable underground water tanks. These are permanent water storage solutions, and it's essential to consider the type of tank you need since it is tedious and costly to reverse the installation process. The top considerations are:
Purpose
Tank purpose the chief consideration when choosing an underground tank water storage unit. Your intent will influence every other aspect of the tank. Applications of below ground water storage units include:
Domestic Use
They act as a secondary water source for drinking, kitchen use, washrooms, and the laundry, or as backup during scarce seasons.
Irrigation
You can use the stored water to irrigate your garden or lawn maintaining the lush green or to supplement larger-scale agricultural use.
Rainwater Harvesting
Leveraging gravity-fed systems and proper piping, rainwater harvesting is a sustainable practice that can significantly reduce dependency on municipal water supplies. Underground tanks are ideal for storing large volumes of rainwater, which can later be filtered and used for various purposes.
Industrial Use
The water in these tanks can be used in manufacturing processes to cool machines or other related procedures.
Storage Capacity
Calculating the required storage capacity becomes easier with the purpose defined. Since it’s nearly impossible to move once installed, make sure you choose the right size tank for your needs from the get-go. Tank Depot has a wide range of underground water holding tank sizes that hold up to tens of thousands of gallons of water. Our experts are trained to guide you in selecting the best custom-made liquid storage solution for your unique needs.
When choosing the right tank size, here are some key factors to consider:
Water Consumption Analysis
Calculate daily, weekly, or seasonal water demands, taking into account peak usage periods and potential future expansions.
Site Assessment
Conduct a thorough site evaluation to determine available space for installation, considering both horizontal and vertical dimensions. Soil conditions and existing underground utilities must be factored into the assessment.
Soil and Environmental Conditions
Analyze the soil's composition and stability, as these factors will influence the excavation process and the tank’s structural integrity. For example, highly expansive clays or soils with low bearing capacity may require specialized tank designs or additional reinforcement.
Regulatory Compliance
Ensure that the selected tank size and installation comply with all relevant local, state, and federal regulations, including zoning laws, building codes, and environmental guidelines.
Future-Proofing
Consider potential increases in water demand due to property expansions or changes in usage patterns. Opting for a slightly larger tank may offer long-term benefits and reduce the need for additional installations.
Construction
The construction process is crucial for the mounting of any multi-use underground tank. Note that the success of an underground water storage system hinges on the quality of its construction and installation. Proper site preparation, including a detailed soil assessment and precise excavation, is crucial to avoid future issues such as tank shifting, structural damage, or contamination.
Your top considerations should be:
Soil Condition Assessment
Assess the soil’s load-bearing capacity and drainage characteristics to determine if additional stabilization measures are necessary. For instance, areas with Alabama Blackbelt soil, known for its low stability, may require enhanced support to ensure the tank remains secure.
Excavation and Backfilling
The excavation must be executed with precision, matching the dimensions of the tank. Proper backfilling with appropriate materials is essential to prevent settling and protect the tank from external pressures.
Contamination Prevention
For potable water tanks, it is vital to implement contamination prevention measures during installation. This includes using clean fill materials, secure tank covers, and proper sealing techniques to maintain water quality.
Design
The design of your underground tank should be tailored to its intended application, ensuring that it meets safety, functionality, and longevity requirements.
Purpose-Specific Design
Tanks intended for drinking water must incorporate features that prevent contamination and ensure water quality. Industrial tanks, on the other hand, may prioritize durability and chemical resistance.
Structural Integrity
The design should account for external pressures from the surrounding soil and groundwater. Cylindrical tanks are often preferred for their ability to withstand these forces without deforming.
Ease of Maintenance
Consider design elements that facilitate regular maintenance, such as access points for cleaning and inspection. Well-designed tanks allow for easy monitoring of water levels and overall conditions.
Material
Underground water tanks are made of four primary materials: high-density polyethylene (HDPE), steel, concrete, and fiberglass. While it might come down to preference, they all offer quality depending on the application. For instance, steel water tanks generally hold more gallons of water; thus, their larger sizes, polyethylene tanks are lightweight and budget-friendly, and fiberglass tanks offer premium features like non-adherence to contaminants due to their smooth and non-porous surfaces.
Accessories
To maximize the efficiency and longevity of your underground water storage system, consider integrating essential accessories:
Corrosion-Resistant Components
Use corrosion-resistant fittings and connectors to prevent leaks and extend the tank's lifespan.
Rain Protection and Vents
Installing screened air vents and rain protection systems helps keep debris and pests out of the tank, ensuring water quality.
Water Pumps and Filters
High-quality water pumps and filtration systems ensure consistent water supply and quality, tailored to your specific application. Conceal your water pumps using appropriate protective pump houses.
Level Gauges and Monitoring Systems
These devices enable precise monitoring of water levels and conditions, allowing for proactive maintenance and efficient water management.
Tank Depot: Your No. 1 Underground Storage Tank Supplier
Tank Depot is the leading supplier of underground water tanks, with over four decades of global experience and partnerships. We prioritize the quality of products and compliance with industry standards for all our product listings. Moreover, you’ll enjoy expert help when installing your underground water storage tank, avoiding future setbacks or unnecessary maintenance costs.
Contact Tank Depot for a comprehensive consultation for your underground water tank project.
