Use of Properly Maintained Rainwater Tanks

Water is one of the most precious substances for all the living creatures on the earth. Two-thirds of human body is made up of water and without which we could not survive even a single day. The importance of water for human beings survival is far more in dry continents like Australia where the supply is limited throughout the year. Rainwater can be an excellent alternative to water supply and a valuable source for drinking when stored in a properly maintained rainwater tanks. Rainwater tanks are the most energy efficient choice for saving water and the best alternative to dwindling water supplies or shortage.

Use of Rainwater Tanks

Efficient use of rainwater helps reduce the impact of stormwater and conserve the local government water supply. Rainwater tanks are the primary source of saving water for rural areas, and they widely used it for drinking, cooking, and other household purposes. However, in urban areas water supply remain the most popular source for drinking. States department of health recommends the people to use the rainwater tanks for non-drinking purposes only such garden watering, washing clothes, toilet cleaning, car washing, and for other indoor or outdoor applications.

Rainwater Tanks for Water Quality

Properly installed rainwater tanks and well-designed water catchment system provide healthy water for drinking and cooking. Water used for drinking purposes should be clear from harmful chemicals, plumbing materials and microorganisms. Appropriate installation and regular maintenance of rainwaters tanks prevent health, and environmental problems comes from the water contamination.

Water inside the tanks is usually contaminated by the microorganisms from the gutters or roof, toxic materials in rainwater, airborne contaminants, and from the Amoebae found in rainwater.

However, follow the information below to keep the water quality protected in rainwater tanks and minimize the risk of harmful disease.

Rainwater quality can be increased by using first flush diverters and rainwater filters that are accurately looked after and fulfill an acceptable standard such as ANSI/NSF 53 or AS/NZS 4348.
Rainwater tanks should be installed according to local council and water supply guidelines. Should be kept away from trees but in the shade that prevent it from hanging branches and leaves.
Overflow and inlet of the tanks should be protected with the mesh safety covers to keep away the bird, insects, and animals.
The rainwater tanks covering or access points should be tightly sealed to protect from the light as it encourages bacteria or algae growth within the water.
Use high-quality plastic pipes instead of PVC pipes if the water is intended for drinking purposes. Always clean and washed the new tanks before use.
The first few runoffs from the acrylic paints and metal roofs should be discarded as they might change the taste of water or color.
Discharge pipes from hot water systems or evaporative air conditioners should not be used on the roof catchment area.

Rainwater Tanks Maintenance

Proper maintenance of rainwater tanks should be carried out before the raining season for the safe supply of water.
Gutters, roof catchments system, and tank inlet should be cleaned after every three to four months.
Use domestic kerosene to prevent and stopped most types of the mosquitoes breeding near the tank.
Examine the tank after every 2-3 years to dig out the sludge. Sludge can be removed by emptying the entire tank or by using the siphon.
Chlorination method can be used for removing microorganisms causing disease in the water. Chlorination when combined with filtration is effective for killing pathogenic bacteria and many other viruses.

More details on how to properly maintain and install rainwater tanks can be found in the links below:

http://www0.health.nsw.gov.au/policies/gl/2007/pdf/GL2007_009.pdf
http://www.eastfremantle.wa.gov.au/uploaded/pdf/rain.pdf
http://www.lgtoolbox.qld.gov.au/GoldCoastCC/EH/EH%20Document%20Uploads%20%20Customer/Keeping%20your%20rainwater%20tank%20healthy.pdf
https://www.health.qld.gov.au/ph/documents/ehu/32922.pdf
http://www.depi.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0004/188707/your_private_drinking_water_supply.pdf