Water Tanks: A Complete Guide for Australian Homes and Businesses
Water tanks are essential for rainwater harvesting, fire protection, livestock watering, irrigation, and household supply, especially in regions where mains water is limited or costly. A modern water tank can be made from polyethylene (plastic), steel, or concrete, each suited to specific environments and capacities.
Common Types of Water Tanks
- Poly Water Tanks
Lightweight, durable, and resistant to rust and corrosion. Polyethylene tanks are ideal for household rainwater collection and can be installed above or below ground. Their smooth inner walls reduce algae buildup and make cleaning simple. - Slimline Water Tanks
Designed for urban and suburban properties with limited space. Slimline tanks fit neatly against walls or fences while still storing thousands of litres of rainwater for garden or household use. - Steel Water Tanks
Best for large-capacity storage. Galvanised or Aquaplate® steel tanks are strong, UV resistant, and long-lasting, often used for farms or industrial sites. - Underground or In-Ground Tanks
Useful when aesthetics or space are priorities. Concrete or poly underground tanks allow discreet storage without taking up yard space. - Firefighting and Emergency Water Tanks
In rural Australia, many councils require a dedicated firefighting water supply. Tanks with Storz fittings provide fast access for emergency services.
How Water Tanks Are Used
- Rainwater Harvesting: Collect water from rooftops and store it for irrigation or indoor plumbing.
- Backup Supply: Maintain household water when mains water fails.
- Agriculture: Water for crops, livestock, and cleaning equipment.
- Industrial Applications: Used for manufacturing, cooling systems, or wastewater collection.
- Environmental Benefits: Reduces stormwater runoff and reliance on treated mains water.
Tank Maintenance and Water Quality
Proper maintenance ensures safe, clean, and long-lasting storage.
- Inspect and clean your tank annually to remove sediment, leaves, and algae.
- Check gutters and filters regularly to prevent contaminants from entering.
- Keep lids sealed to stop insects and debris.
- Test pH levels if you use stored water indoors or for drinking.
- Flush pipes occasionally to prevent stagnation or bacterial growth.
Modern tanks are designed with smooth, food-grade linings that discourage algae growth and resist chemical contamination.
Choosing the Right Tank Size
The ideal tank size depends on rainfall, roof area, and intended use.
A small household may benefit from a 5,000 – 10,000 litre tank, while rural properties or farms often require 50,000 litres or more.
For example, collecting rainwater from a 200 m² roof in an area with 600 mm annual rainfall can yield over 100,000 litres of usable water per year.
Water Tank Installation and Placement
Water tanks must be placed on a stable, level base, either concrete, compacted sand, or a prepared pad.
Above-ground tanks should be protected from direct UV exposure when possible, while underground models require adequate drainage and access for maintenance.
Professional installers can assist with plumbing connections, overflow systems, and pump setup to ensure maximum performance and compliance with local council regulations.
Australian-Made Quality
Australian-made tanks are engineered to endure harsh UV exposure, high temperatures, and variable rainfall.
Bushmans manufactures its tanks locally, using UV-stabilised polyethylene and steel to meet Australian standards for water storage.
Buying locally supports regional jobs and ensures faster access to parts and service.
A well-chosen water tank provides security, sustainability, and savings. Whether for garden irrigation, household water supply, or agricultural use, modern tanks are durable, hygienic, and low maintenance.
By selecting the right size and material, and cleaning it regularly, you can enjoy clean, reliable water for years to come.
Explore Bushmans’ range of poly, steel, and underground water tanks to find the best solution for your property.
Water tanks available across Australia
Bushmans offers a host of products, and will deliver, place and install fittings across all major regions in Australia.
Browse water tanks available near you by starting in the following Australian states:
North Queensland and Townsville
South Queensland and Brisbane
New South Wales and Sydney
Victoria and Melbourne
Northern Territory and Darwin
Australian Capital Territory and Canberra
South Australia and Adelaide