Underground liquid storage has been around for a pretty long time, from ancient Roman aqueducts to medieval cisterns. With technological advancements, businesses have shifted from using stones, brick, and wood, to high density plastics, steel, and fiberglass for storing all manner of liquids. From oil to water, gasoline to wastewater, modern underground storage tanks are emerging as a sustainable solution for storing different liquids. Today, we’ll dig deeper into underground water storage tanks, understand the types, and learn how to choose the right underground water tank.
Underground water tanks are a crucial water management solution for residential, commercial, agricultural, and industrial properties. They come in different designs, materials, and sizes, offering unique advantages that help weather seasonal water shortages. There are several factors to consider before selecting the right underground water tank, which we’ll look at in a minute.
What Is An Underground Water Tank and How Do They Work?
Underground water tanks are tanks made to store water for portable and non-portable needs. They are installed below the ground, which helps save property space. These tanks have a simple working mechanism that allows you to store and access the water. Here’s how they work:
1. Electricity and gravity help pump water into the tank. An inlet pipe and level indicators facilitate this process by controlling the water flow.
2. The water is then treated using filtration, chlorine, or UV treatments to ensure safety.
3. The tank then stores the water awaiting use, and its base shields the water from sunlight, evaporation, and other harmful agents.
4. Through taps, pipes, or sprinklers, a pump helps move the water from the tank to the desired location.
5. For maintenance, there’s a control box above the ground with sensors and wires connected to it to control the float switch and pump. Some water storage tanks have advanced systems like diagnosis software that help identify maintenance needs and troubleshoot problems.
Applications for Underground Water Tanks
The versatility of Tank Depot’s underground water tanks makes them ideal for various applications, including:
Residential Use
They are a reliable water storage solution for homeowners' daily household needs, such as supplying toilets, watering gardens, and washing cars.
Commercial and Industrial Use
Agricultural facilities, industries, and commercial establishments benefit from these tanks, effectively managing their water supply for irrigation, manufacturing procedures, and firefighting purposes.
Rainwater Harvesting
Underground storage tanks are integral for rainwater harvesting systems, maximizing the use of natural water sources.
3 Main Types of Underground Water Tanks
You can choose from a few options when buying underground water tanks. This decision will be influenced by your capacity and usage needs, among other factors. Common options include:
Poly Tanks
These are typically the go-to underground water tanks. They are made of polyethylene, a lightweight but robust material. They come in different shapes, colors, and designs. Poly tanks are easy to install, and compared to other options, they are the most cost-effective ones.
Fiberglass Tanks
Fiberglass tanks combine the properties of both poly and steel tanks. They are lightweight, durable, and resistant to corrosion. Their non-porous and smooth surfaces make it difficult for bacteria and other contaminants to adhere, making them easy to clean and maintain.
Steel Tanks
Steel tanks are reputable for their strength and durability. They are often braced with a zinc coating applied to the inside walls to prevent corrosion and rust. Underground steel fuel tanks are relatively heavier than the rest and require routine maintenance to serve efficiently and last decades.
How to Choose the Right Underground Water Tank
An accurate and carefully selected underground storage tank will supply water on hand. This investment comes with tremendous benefits, including significantly reducing your water bills. Therefore, you cannot afford to select the wrong tank. Some of the top considerations when choosing the right underground water tank include:
Size
The size of your tank should be relative to the available space and intended purpose. For instance, a residential property will accommodate a smaller tank than an agricultural facility because of the volume required and space available. You can consult Tank Depot to find the ideal tank space for your needs.
Construction
A well-constructed tank will prevent access to pollutants. You should consider aspects such as screened air vents, rain protection, and corrosion resistance during purchase to prevent the tank from being tainted quickly.
Design
Your tank's design should also match your water needs. The simple fact that underground water tanks are made to store water doesn't mean it suits your intended needs. For example, a tank for industrial water storage differs from one used to store drinking water. This goes down to customization and the set of accessories required.
Material
Generally, the material is also relative to the size of the tank. Steel tanks are known to be larger than poly tanks, while underground fiberglass tanks are more customizable. However, neither compromises on quality and durability, as it all comes down to use.
Purpose
The reason for purchase will influence the kind of underground water tank to choose. Water tanks are designed to store water for general use, harvest rainwater, and store drinking water.
Top 3 Best-Rated Underground Water Tanks for Sale
You can choose from a few options when buying underground water tanks. This decision will be influenced by your capacity and usage needs, among other factors. Common options include:
225 Gallon Plastic Underground Water Storage Cistern Tank
Norwesco’s one-piece mold design eliminates the need for extra assembly and speeds up installation. It’s perfect for underground water storage needs.
- Dimensions: 48” L x 48” W x 50” H
- Material: HDPE
- Weight: 80lbs
- Manufacturer: Norwesco
1,000 Gallon Plastic Underground Water Storage Cistern Tank
Meet the GRAF 90” long 1000 gallon plastic underground tank. This high-quality beauty is made with high density polyethylene making it ideal for residential and commercial applications.
- Dimensions: 90” L x 69” W x 87” H
- Material: HDPE
- Weight: 256lbs
- Manufacturer: GRAF Rainharvest Systems
1725 Gallon Plastic Underground Water Storage Cistern Tank
Do you have larger water or liquid storage needs? This rotationally molded one-piece Snyder 1725 gallon underground storage tank comes with two 20” manholes complete with threaded lids making it ideal for interconnecting tanks for increased liquid storage needs.
- Dimensions: 157” L x 69” W x 51” H
- Material: HDPE
- Weight: 256lbs
- Manufacturer: Snyder Industries
Pros and Cons of Underground Water Tanks
Pros
- Save property space
- Avoid unattractive aesthetics
- Protect water tank
- Maximize water storage
- Reduce floods risk
- Water temperature regulation
- Algae growth prevention
Cons
- Expensive to install
- Difficult to maintain
Installation Procedure for Underground Water Tanks
Proper planning and preparations are crucial for installing underground water tanks. You must get accurate measurements, gather the necessary equipment, and know how to do the job. The step-by-step guide for installing the tanks includes:
Water Tank Selection
Select the water tank that meets your storage capacity and one made of the right material. Consider what you will use the underground storage tank for, the number of gallons you intend to store, and local soil conditions. Also consider getting accessories for the tank necessary for effective operations, including a water pump, level gauges, filters, and more.
Identify a Site
Choose an ideal location to install your tank. Consider a site with good soil quality. It should be easily accessible by machinery making future maintenance easier. Moreover, selected site should not tamper with the structural integrity of neighboring building foundations or underground utilities.
Excavation
Use a backhoe or other heavy-duty digging equipment. Ideally, the hole should be larger than the tank size for backfill accommodation and submerge the tank top.
Prepare the Base
The tank's base is crucial for sufficient drainage. The manufacturer often provides information for specific tanks, but standard options include compacted gravel, layer of sand, or gravel-sand mixture.
Install the Tank
Using appropriate lifting equipment, carefully lower the water tank into the hole, ensuring it is level and correctly positioned before proceeding.
Backfilling
Refill the uncovered sections with either native soil or sand-gravel mixture. Avoid using heavy machinery for this procedure to prevent tank damage.
Connect Plumbing
Set up all the pipes before you fill in the hole completely. When you get to the spots where you need to hook up the tank, connect the pipes that let water in, out, and handle overflow. Make sure these pipes line up with your water pump and the rest of your house's plumbing so the water flows like it should.
Final Checks
After your plumbing system and accessories are installed and good to go, check for any potential leaks. If everything checks out, complete the backfilling process.
NB: Some states have local regulations requiring the installation of underground storage tanks by professionals.
The Basics of Underground Water Tank Maintenance
Maintenance of underground water tanks is crucial to ensure efficiency and quality. Regularly inspect the water pump to promptly identify and address any potential leaks. If you have invested in a rainwater harvesting system, it is crucial to verify that the mains backup supply activates seamlessly during periods of low rainwater levels.
Additionally, it is important to examine the downpipes and gutters for any obstructions caused by debris, dirt, or fallen leaves, especially during the autumn season.
Finally, make it a priority to clean the filters of your rainwater harvesting system on an annual basis to prevent the development of foul odors or changes in water quality and color.
How to Clean an Underground Water Tank
Cleaning is an essential part of maintenance. A water tank in mint condition equals a high-performing water storage system. While specific tank cleaning procedures differ, the general steps include:
- Drain the underground water tank through the tap or valve using a garden horse
- Chlorinate and disinfect the tank to rid it of any contaminations
- Clean the outlet taps and pipelines to remove any blockages or deposits that might affect the flow of water
- Thoroughly scrub the interior underground water tank walls to eliminate any built-up dirt
- Rinse the tank
- Recommission the tank to eliminate any debris left behind and also to unclog the water pathway fully
Tank Depot Delivers Quality Underground Storage Tanks
Underground water tanks are a great storage option for various uses. However, you should check if there are any legal regulations in your state involving underground storage tanks installation. Furthermore, although manufacturers provide clear installation guidelines in the manuals, we recommend hiring professional contractors to save time, reduce long term costs, and deliver quality results.
Contact Tank Depot for a detailed consultation on your underground water tank needs.
