Choosing and installing a rainwater tank

These tanks come with corrosive resistant coatings to prevent rust. There should be at least two metres of plastic pipe between a steel tank and copper, brass or bronze fittings as they can cause corrosion. Galvanised and Zincalume steel can be considered as an alternative, however they are both prone to rusting. Copper and stainless steel can also be considered for specific situations.

Fibreglass tanks are durable and resist corrosion. However, they are often more expensive and can expose the stored water to sunlight. Stagnant water exposed to sunlight can allow algae to grow, some forms of which may be toxic for both humans and pets. Ensure you purchase a tank that is manufactured with sufficient pigment to prevent light entering the tank.

These tanks are strong and heavy, which means they can be installed underground. New concrete tanks may need to be flushed clean because they can release excess lime, leading to a high pH in the water. Some concrete tanks require a lining to be installed.

Plastic tanks respond well to bumps and are non-corrosive. These are often the cheapest tanks. Their advantage is that they are lightweight, easy to transport and available in a range of colours.