What water pump do I need for my rainwater tank in Australia?
In Australia, rainwater tanks have historically been used as a way to harvest and store rainwater for use in times of drought or water scarcity. These rainwater tanks were traditionally located in elevated positions and relied on a gravity fed process to deliver the water. Tank stands were a common sight, typically built with a timber base and with a corrugated iron rainwater tank perched on top. In modern times, rainwater tanks and rainwater tank pumps have evolved significantly, particularly in the domestic market with an extensive range of rainwater tanks and rainwater pumps available, rendering the old Australian tank stand obsolete.
Once you have selected your modern rainwater tank, you will also need to select a suitable rainwater pump. The type of water pump you choose will depend on where you are pumping your harvested rainwater to. Australian residential homes generally use rainwater one of three ways:
- Whole of house - harvested rainwater is used to service the entire needs of the residence. This is particularly the case on rural or off grid properties in Australia
- For the garden or external use - typically used as a way of conserving water and watering the garden during water restrictions. This system typically uses smaller rainwater tanks and water pumps.
- A combination approach - used to complement mains water supply: water is typically connected and pumped to toilets, washing machine and garden outlets with the option of converting to mains water when needed.
The type of water pump you need to use really depends on the way you are using your rainwater.
If you are using water from a rainwater tank for the whole of your house you will need to select a water pump that has a greater flow rate. Multi-stage rainwater pumps which utilise impellers to improve flow are ideal for this. To service a whole house in Australia the flow rate of your water pump typically needs to be at a maximum of 100 litres per minute. Grundfos water pumps are a very popular and reliable brand which combine well with typical rainwater tanks in Australia.
Variable speed water pumps are a very popular choice for pumping rainwater from the rainwater tank to the home in whole house applications. They help regulate the water pressure when multiple locations are drawing on water at the same time .eg when the shower, washing machine and toilet are being used concurrently. These pumps typically offer added benefits such as quiet operation, self cooling, sensors and non return valves.
Garden pumps typically have a maximum flow rate of between 40 and 60 litres per minute. They work well to pump water from a rainwater tank onto the garden and can easily power a hose, a small irrigation system, wash down footpaths or the car and keep your pool replenished for the summer months rainwater tank pump perth .
Combination water pumps, sometimes known as complimentary pumps, typically include a switching device which will automatically switch over to mains water when the rainwater tank runs dry. More advanced models will self test the water levels in the tank each day.
It is worth noting here that submersible water pumps have become the pump of choice in rainwater tanks. Submersible pumps are very quiet and space efficient. The controller is usually located outside the tank, although fully integrated submersible water pumps are available.
Another factor to consider is the power source. Most household pumps these days can be connected to mains power. However, an emerging trend is the popularity of solar powered water pumps. This trend is particularly popular with environmentally conscious Australians or Australians living in rural or off grid communities water filtration system perth .
The final choice around the type of water pump you use with your rainwater tank in Australian households, really depends on the application of your rainwater. Whatever your choice, it is recommended you purchase your rainwater tank pump from a local supplier who can provide you with ongoing support and servicing. It is also important to set up a servicing schedule to ensure the longevity of your pump and effectiveness of your harvested rainwater.
You can search for a local supplier in Australia here: