Water Tanks in South Africa

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 Water Tanks installed by Water Rhapsody. Using water 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, in Australia they are called Plastic Water Tanks and in South Africa, water tanks or rainwater 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.

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.

Water collected in these receptacles may be used for a number of things. Common uses include watering lawns and gardens, household plumbing like toilets and washing machines, and topping up swimming pools. If it is to be used for drinking, special care must be taken to ensure that the water does not get contaminated.

First of all, steps can be taken before the water is collected to help keep it safe. Water Rhapsody use a filter called a rainrunner to 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.