What To Know About Bladder Water Tanks
Sometimes we get too much rain and other times we don’t get enough rain. One good idea is the use of for capturing rain water and storing it for future use, during those times when rain is sparse.
In the UK, these tanks are called water butts and in North America they are also referred to as rain barrels. Whatever you choose to call them, they are great for catching water that can be used later. Most of these tanks are above ground but in-ground ones can also be used, especially in typically arid climates when dry conditions are a given and water will be in short supply.
Tanks may be made of galvanized steel, concrete, plastic, fiberglass or stainless steel. The stainless steel and fiberglass versions tend to be rust proof and chemical-resistant. They are often found on rooftops, concrete patios and driveways and anywhere else with an impervious surface.
There is a wide array of uses for the gathered rain water. Frequently it is used to irrigate crops and tend to agriculture. It may also be used to water yard and gardens. Household water usage may include toilets, washing machines, and hoses for car washing. In some cases the water becomes drinking water. If the water is to be drunk, one must take steps to ensure that it is safe to consume.
A well equipped tank will make it easier to have a drinkable, uncontaminated water supply. Dirt and debris as well as insects and bird droppings can be kept out with a screen cover. A tank that is opaque will disallow the penetration of sunlight and thus minimize algae and bacteria growth. A plastic lining inside the tank aids in leak prevention and keeps water quality higher.
Even if all these steps are taken to protect the collected water, it is still vital that any water be filtered before it is drunk. Rain water is pure. However, it can become contaminated after collection by outside forces such as air pollution. It is not advisable to drink stored rain water unless there are no other available options.
Do rainwater tanks affect the environment? The answer is yes, but that may not be a bad thing. Of course, rain that is captured in a tank is rain that does not fall to the ground. In some instances, heavy use of tanks can have the effect of drying out rivers and ponds or leaving stagnant water in them. On the flip side, it may prevent overflow to rivers and deter erosion, sedimentation and pollution. If the water collected is used locally and put back into the ground, it could have a stabilizing effect on the water quality in these bodies of water.
