• How do water tanks work?
• Can I even have a tank?
• What can I use the water for?

If you are installing a rainwater tank you'll need to decide on the size, material, filtration devices and other requirements.

. Source: Bluescope

Whether you want to maintain a lush garden, supplement your home's water supply or fulfil BASIX requirements, you may have thought about installing a water tank. But there are a number of factors that will determine the type of tank you take home. We answer your most commonly asked questions.

The environmental benefits of saving water are pretty obvious, but the process of selecting and installing a rainwater tank can be baffling. The guide below will help you determine the right tank but due to the many variables involved we still strongly advise you talk to a professional who can ascertain your individual requirements.

How do water tanks work?

Regardless of the size of your tank, the basic principle of water collection (or water harvesting) is the same. Put simply, the rain that falls onto your roof is caught by the guttering, channelled along the downpipe and filtered into your tank where it is collected for later use.

Can I even have a tank?

With the number of compact domestic water tanks on the market now, it is unlikely that a small roof area will prevent you from owning a small tank. However every council has different regulations. It is worth ringing them anyway to ask if installing a rainwater system will make you eligible for a rebate on your water rates.

What can I use the water for?

Most retrofitted rainwater tanks are designed to collect water for the garden, flush toilets and wash clothes. More complex systems can be connected to provide "potable water" - that is, water fit for drinking and cooking with.