Large metal water tanks are usually known as cisterns.
Storing water in any type of above-ground water storage units can help keep a farm or garden alive during a drought, or provide crucial drinking water in case of a dry well or water service interruption. Some methods of water storage are only appropriate for water used on plants or for washing and showering, while others will keep drinking water safe and clean. Does this Spark an idea?
Rain Barrels
Rain barrels and urns are water-storage devices that are usually installed under a gutter downspout or roof overhang. The University of Florida IFAS Extension says that gathering just a few inches of rainfall over 1,000 square feet of roofing can yield hundreds of gallons of clean water for supplying a garden or lawn. Filters are used to remove leaves, bird waste and other debris commonly found on a roof to keep the water clean. Rain barrels may also be free-standing, and these models can provide water clean enough to drink after being filtered. These barrels are usually made from heavy duty plastic, wood or metal and range in capacity from 10 gallons to 300 gallons or more.
Above-Ground Cisterns
Building an above-ground cistern from concrete or steel allows a homeowner to save rainwater or water pumped from an aquifer during the rainy season for use later in the year. Due to their extra weight when full, cisterns must be installed over stable and firm ground, notes the University of Florida IFAS Extension. Large cisterns that hold thousands of gallons of water may require a concrete slab for safety. Drinking water is rarely stored in cisterns due to the difficulty of keeping it potable, but the water is usually clean enough for showering, washing clothes or cars and watering plants. Non-reactive materials must be used to construct a cistern to prevent rust or other problems that would interfere with the water quality.
Ponds
Homeowners may overlook ponds as a viable source of above-ground water storage, but when properly designed and maintained they may be the best option. Ponds naturally gather rainfall, water runoff from structures in the area and excess groundwater, according to the California Agricultural Water Stewardship Initiative. Pumping water out of a nearby pond for irrigating a lawn or garden requires less energy than pumping it from a well or city water line. Ponds also add beauty to a backyard and require little maintenance if built properly.
Storage Tanks
For home storage of drinking water, plastic barrels or storage tanks are often the best choice. The Alabama Cooperative Extension System says to only use plastic containers that are designed to store water, or that have been used to store food or wax products and have been thoroughly cleaned. Even after cleaning, a container that was full of toxic products may leach toxins into a drinking water supply. Plastic is the material of choice for small drinking water containers -- those of 100 gallons or less -- because of its light weight and durability.
Tags: drinking water, water storage, above-ground water, above-ground water storage, clean enough, Florida IFAS, Florida IFAS Extension