As a Perth Hills homeowner, selecting the right rainwater tank is crucial for both sustainability and meeting your household’s specific water needs. At JFK Custom Homes, we believe that every detail of your custom-built home should reflect your lifestyle and needs, including sustainable water solutions like rainwater tanks.
When you’re building with us, we don’t just help you design your dream home—we also assist with integrating essential features like rainwater tanks into your home plans and navigating the necessary approvals.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you choose the perfect rainwater tank.
Understand Your Water Usage
Garden Irrigation: If your primary use is for watering gardens, consider the average water requirement of your plants. A small to medium-sized tank might suffice if you have a modest garden.
Household Use: For households aiming to use rainwater for laundry, toilets, or even drinking water, you’ll need to estimate the daily water usage. On average, a family of four in Perth might use up to 800 litres per day, making a larger tank necessary. For those planning to use rainwater for household needs, we calculate your daily water requirements based on family size and lifestyle. For instance, a family of four might require a tank that can hold up to 28,000 litres for comprehensive use throughout the year.
Choosing the Right Tank Size
Calculate Your Needs: Perth Hills receives about 800mm of annual rainfall. To estimate your water collection, multiply your roof area by the average rainfall. For example, a roof area of 100 square meters could collect 80,000 litres of water annually.
Consider Your Space: The space available on your property is a key factor. Slimline tanks are ideal for narrow spaces, while round or oblong tanks are better suited for larger areas. Rainfill Tanks offers customisable slimline tanks that can fit in tight spaces, making them a practical choice for many homes
Perth Hills’ unique climate and varying rainfall mean your rainwater tank needs to be carefully sized. We’ll design the tank to fit your specific roof area and capture maximum rainwater, ensuring you make the most of your investment. Rainfill Tanks offers customizable slimline options that are perfect for tight spaces
Choosing the Right Material
Polyethylene: For a durable, lightweight option, we recommend poly tanks, which are resistant to corrosion and can be customized in various sizes. Providers like Bluewater Tanks offer high-density poly tanks that meet Australian standards, ensuring long-term reliability.
Steel: If you prefer a more robust solution, steel tanks are a great choice. They’re ideal for maximizing storage and maintaining water quality, and their aesthetic can complement the overall design of your custom home.
Concrete: For those who value maximum durability, concrete tanks offer excellent longevity and are a solid investment, especially in bushfire-prone areas.
Placement and Installation
Above Ground vs. Underground: Above-ground tanks are easier to install and maintain, but they require space. Whether you’re building on a compact lot or an expansive property, our design team ensures your rainwater tank fits perfectly within your home’s layout.
Slimline Options: For properties with limited space, slimline tanks are a great solution. Slim Thin Tanks offers ultra-slim tanks that fit into narrow spaces without compromising on capacity.
Budget Considerations
Your budget will largely determine the size, material, and type of tank you choose. While larger tanks or those made from premium materials may have a higher initial cost, they can be more cost-effective in the long term by reducing your reliance on mains water.
We help you choose a tank that fits your budget without compromising on quality.
Environmental Impact: Our design approach includes considering the environmental benefits of rainwater harvesting, such as reducing stormwater runoff and promoting sustainable living.
Legal and Environmental Factors
Council Regulations: Ensure you check with local councils for any regulations regarding rainwater tank installations. Some areas may require permits or have specific guidelines.
Future-Proofing
Consider whether your water storage needs might increase in the future. Opt for modular tanks or systems that allow for easy expansion as your needs grow.
Selecting the right rainwater tank is an investment in your home’s sustainability and efficiency. At JFK Custom Homes, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring that your rainwater harvesting system is tailored to your lifestyle and property.