In a climate of dry summers and wet winters the general consensus is to select the largest volume tank that will fit in the premises. Most slimline tanks around 1,000 gallons can be up to 9ft long and fit under the eaves, standing almost 7ft tall. They are approximately 2 1/2 to 3 feet wide. Round tanks around 1,000 gallons stand over 6 ft and are at least 6ft in diameter.
Material
Modern rain tanks are made from three main products:
Poly (Polyethylene)
Corrugated Steel
Concrete
Location
The beauty of Aussie Rain Tanks is that they can fit in almost anywhere on the average, suburban lot. Round tanks can take center stage as part of a garden design or slimline tanks can be discreetly placed around the side of the house, out of slight. There are even tanks that can be placed under decks or totally underground.
The choice tank location can often mean a difference of many years in its life. Whenever possible tanks should be installed in a cool position, preferably on the northern side of a building, away from trees from which leaves might clog the strainer or contaminate the water. Direct sunlight falling on a tank for long periods on a hot day can create temperature differentials in the water. This can affect the performance of the tanks. All excess water must be piped away from the tank base regardless of the tank type.
While most California cities do not require a building permit for rain tanks under 5,000 gallons, most insist that the tank should not obstruct passage in the event of fire.
Shape
Barrel
Super Slimline
Slimline
Tower
Round
Underground
Underdeck
Colors
The easiest part of the process is selecting the color to suit your home or yard. Modern rain tanks for the home come in more than just industrial black, white and dark green. With such a wide palette of contemporary colors to select from maybe it isn't so easy to choose!: