Why water tank size depends on the local climate

Size is one of the first factors you'll consider when purchasing a polyethylene water tank – after all, you'll need one that can carry the right amount of water while fitting neatly onto your property. This means that obvious considerations, such as how much free space you currently have at your home, come into play.

However, it's also crucial to factor in the specific rainfall patterns in your local area. How much rain your property receives on average – and how often – has a direct influence on how large your tank should be, guiding you to the size that will bring the optimal return on investment and satisfaction in use.

So how should you decide on a tank size in relation to local rainfall levels?

Firstly, a good rule of thumb is to assess the regularity and consistency of rainfall in your region. You can access historical data for your area from sources such as the Bureau of Meteorology's website, to see whether your region gets evenly distributed rainfall throughout the year.

If you live in an area that receives relatively consistent rain all year round, you can save costs by investing in a smaller tank. The regular amount of rain you receive will reduce the need to hoard up large quantities of water to cope through long dry spells.

On the other hand, those in sparse regions with irregular and unpredictable rain can enjoy the added reassurance of a larger tank that can stock substantial amounts of water. 

Of course, in addition to the local climactic conditions, it's important to consider the catchment area – or yield – of your property. The bigger your roof, the more rainwater you can harvest, so those with sizeable properties can confidently invest in a larger tank to make the most of the rain.

By David Francis