Rainwater tanks

Rainwater tanks save water and the environment

Rainwater tanks are popular for saving water, especially in the garden. They're easy to use and available in styles to suit most homes.

7 reasons to use rainwater

• Collecting rainwater allows you to be prepared for times of low rainfall, so you can still maintain your garden. Permanent Water Conservation Measures do not apply to the rainwater you catch.
• Your garden loves rainwater. You can also use it to top up your pool or to wash your car.
• Using rainwater can reduce your water bills as rainwater is free. You can have your tank connected to your outdoor taps or even plumbed into your toilet or laundry. Toilets use approximately 14 percent of drinking-quality water in the house and washing machines use around 16 percent.
• Tanks plumbed to the toilet and laundry can be used effectively during periods of high rainfall when you don’t need to water your garden. By connecting a tank to the toilet or washing machine with a switching pump you can use your tanks all year round. When tank water is available, the pump uses it and automatically switches to mains water when the tank is empty. You should speak to a plumber about making these connections.
• Tank water should be used in preference to greywater, especially for herbs and vegetables. Even better, use tank water in conjunction with other recommended water-saving measures like mulch, drip systems and soil additives. If you're in the process of planning a new house think about including a rainwater tank. At the planning stage you can arrange for a suitable space for your tank, including underground and bladder style tanks for under your decking. You will save water and add considerably to the value and enjoyment of your house and garden.
• Capturing rainwater reduces the load on stormwater systems because roof runoff is not flushed into the drains. This helps reduce stormwater damage to creeks.

More information about the benefits of installing a rainwater tank, how to size a tank to suit your needs, how much rainwater different size tanks can harvest, installation and approval requirements and tank maintenance, visit the ACT Government's actsmart rainwater tank page. 

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