Saving you water and money!

Rainwater tanks can provide a source of water for your garden and for cleaning things like your car. Using a rainwater tank can save water and the amount could be considerable.

The State Government is now offering cash rebates for the purchase and installation of rainwater tanks. For more information go to - Rainwater Tank Rebate

Water purity in tanks

The safety of rainwater collected from the roof of your house cannot be guaranteed. After falling on your roof it may pass through decaying leaves and sometimes comes into contact with bird and animal droppings. It can also be tainted by lead flashing and paint which may affect water quality.

Is a tank an alternative water supply for your garden?

The Hastings rainfall averages approximately 1552mm a year. This varies from one year to the next; in 1994 only 798mm fell, while in 2004 1372.3mm fell. Rainfall also varies from the coastal to the inland areas.

With such variable rainfall you need to plan properly if your rainwater tank is to have an impact on water use.

Factors such as usage, roof area and local rainfall need to be taken into account to determine the optimum size of the tank that would be needed.

What would a tank cost?

The cost of installing a tank will vary from house to house. You will have to consider local rainfall and your own needs, to decide what size of tank to get and whether a pump is necessary.

Rainwater tanks are available in galvanised steel, fibreglass, plastic, cement and ferroconcrete. The most common type is galvanised steel.

The cost of a tank will vary considerably and will depend on its size and the material that it is made from. Your nearest tank retailer will be able to provide details. Tanks and tank equipment are listed in the Telstra Yellow Pages. The NSW Depatment of Health have released a fact sheet on rainwater tankks and the use of water from them.