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With droughts on the increase, Australians look for ways to save water. The key is to harness the rain, before it has the chance to evaporate in the heat. Rainwater tanks enable you to save water by collecting rainwater from your roof. Before installing a collection tank, your plumber will run some checks to ensure the water you collect remains safe to use.

The latest figures show that the Melbourne population continues to rise. Droughts are on the increase, and Australians look to save water where possible. Many people are finding that a good way to do this is to collect rain. Installing a rainwater collection tank has advantages for homeowners. Households are reducing the amount of treated water they use, and enjoying lower water bills.

Water Shortages

Australia is in the middle of another hot summer. Melbourne water reports that water shortages in this region are now at 75.7%. What people can find confusing is that after the rain starts to fall, it takes so long for a water shortage to be over. This is due to the dry, deep, soil acting like a sponge. What usually happens is that the ground soaks up the rainfall, and then simply dries out again in the heat. The water from the rainfall just evaporates. Finding a way to harvest the rain before it disappears, is key.

How a Rainwater Tank Works

Rainwater tanks work by collecting water from your roof. This travels from the guttering and into downpipes. The downpipes connect to a storage tank beneath. If you are considering having a new collection system installed, it may be necessary to have new gutters fitted on your roof. When buying your tank, make sure that there are appropriate screens provided, to filter out debris.

Types and Installation

There are a range of different collection and storage tanks available for domestic use. They are designed in materials such as:

Fibreglass
Concrete
Plastic
Steel
Protection and Safety

Each tank needs a protective cover to stop anything from falling inside. The inlet should have a screen fitted for filtering out impurities. The overflow must also have a protective mesh in place. The plumber performing the installation needs to inspect the roof area for:

Lead flashing requiring painting.
Treated timber which needs to be sealed.
Plants overhanging the area.
Any discharging pipes on the roof.

During installation, your plumber needs to assess the risk of contamination. Contaminants may include:

Pollution
Pesticides
Fertilisers
Animals
Dust
Pollen
Roof debris

A professional plumber will know what to check for, in line with the current safety regulations. This ensures your water stays clean, and is safe to use.

Saving Water

Rainwater collection tanks are particularly useful when you want to have a renewable resource of water for your home. For example, during a drought there may be a hosepipe ban, but your garden still needs watering. Although it is less common, rainwater is also used in some areas of Australia for: laundry, baths, and showers.

Plumbers in Melbourne

Whether your problem is a blocked drain in Melbourne, or you need a professional to install a new rainwater collection tank, around-the-clock plumbing services are available. A qualified, certified plumber will ensure that all parts of your home plumbing system are safe, and in optimum working order.