Your household can’t live without water. Whether it is for baths or for drinking, having a ready source of water is important. Usually, this is done by hooking up to the local water supply.
However, you may need a large supply or want a buffer for any emergency. This is where water storage options come in. Here are some of the options available to homeowners right now:
Steel Tanks
An above ground steel tank is one of the best options right now. Usually made with galvanized stainless steel, the water that you store inside this tank can be assured of cleanliness and no chance of corrosion.
The great thing about steel is that you can have a wide variety of sizes. Small 150-gallon tanks are possible, while 2,500-gallon tanks can be transported to your home easily. You can even have contractors working at your home to build a gigantic 10,000-gallon tank; though, that should probably be an underground option. Free-standing water tanks will need some cleaning, as a film or buildup usually develops inside.
Underground Tanks
If you want a large storage option, then underground tanks are a good choice. These can be made of a variety of materials, such as steel, concrete, or fiberglass. However, they can be expensive because you’re not just paying for the tank; you’re also paying for excavation. You might also end up paying for the cost of reinforcing the tank.
Underground tanks need to be buried two feet below the ground and it is up to you how big the water storage is for your particular tank. 10,000 gallons should be enough if you want to be sure that you won’t easily run out of water during emergencies.
Fiberglass Tanks
Lightweight and long lasting, these tanks also happen to be very affordable. A 15,000-gallon tank can cost the same or lower than storage tanks of different materials. The main problem is that you will get the most value for your money if you choose larger tanks instead of smaller ones.
Wood Barrels and Tanks
You can also choose to go the traditional route. Wooden tanks are among the most affordable options around. You don’t even have to buy tanks, but just barrels. However, they can be difficult to maintain and buy nowadays. You’ll most likely be choosing this option if it is available or if it suits the aesthetics of your home.
Water Cisterns
Cisterns are a place to store rainwater for the long term. Technically, they’re storage tanks, but you’ll probably get one beside your normal storage tank. Cisterns have large storage capacities and can hold up to 12,000 gallons of water. The most important part is that the cistern is hooked up to a series of pipes that will collect any rainwater. Note that water in cisterns needs to be filtered or purified if you want to use it for drinking or food preparation. But for general purposes, rainwater should be fine.
Water is an essential element of life. If you want to ensure a continued supply, then it is a good idea to invest in a storage tank. Choose among these options so that you can be assured of water when you want or need it.
