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Rainwater Bladders vs Rainwater Tanks

Choosing the best water storage for a given site is crucial for functionality, longevity and performance. The right rainwater tank can provide a hassle-free source of water for a variety of intended applications. The wrong tank can cause endless installation and maintenance issues, and if completely unsuitable, may not be able to be installed at all.

While a variety of options exist, the first step is to decide whether your site would be best served by a water tank or a rainwater bladder. Each offers a handy water storage solution when installed correctly at a suitable site.

Rainwater tanks connected to building.

Rainwater Tanks

Conventional above-ground water tanks are widely used because they have good longevity and can be used for several applications, including non-potable water collection for garden irrigation, and use in laundries and toilets.

Water tanks are a good option because they offer the following:

  • Long-lasting, rigid structure that can withstand a variety of adverse weather conditions
  • A variety of materials to choose from, such as concrete, polyethylene, steel, or fibreglass
  • Suitable for aboveground applications, and underground models are also available
  • Options for every budget, with polyethylene options usually the cheapest
  • Quick and easy to install.

The following challenges may make water tanks an unsuitable choice:

  • Large area required for installation
  • Can dominate an area visually
  • Underground options require excavation
  • Bulky, with high transport costs
  • Usually unsuitable for moving once installed
  • Regular maintenance and cleaning are required to maintain water quality, as debris can accumulate in the tank and algae growth can be significant. Steel tanks should be regularly inspected for corrosion.

Rainwater Bladders

Rainwater bladders (also called water sacs) like the Waterplex Eco Sac Bladder offer a space-saving solution for sites that don’t have a big enough outdoor area to install a conventional water tank.

Waterplex Eco Sac Water Bladder

Water bladders are flexible PVC or TPU sacks that work well in situations where property developers want to offer additional functionality while working with tight spaces.

Provided that there is sufficient clearance under the house, water bladders offer a solution for those who want to collect rainwater but lack yard space.

They are a good option because they offer the following:

  • Utilise unused, unseen spaces
  • Easy and cheap to transport as a small package assembled on site
  • Low maintenance, as algae growth is inhibited in the dark
  • UV stabilised and offering a 10–15-year lifespan
  • Can be dismantled and moved in the case of relocation.

The following challenges may make them an unsuitable choice:

  • Installation is more complex and requires an experienced installation team, as a compacted base and steel frame may be required
  • More expensive than a conventional water tank
  • Shorter lifespan than a conventional water tank.

Choosing the Right Rainwater Collection System

Both rainwater tanks and rainwater bladders are suitable for collecting water for flushing toilets, watering the garden, doing laundry or washing the car. However, to determine which system is the best fit, it’s important to consider:

  • How you intend to use the harvested water
  • The space available for installation
  • Your budget.

Waterwise Queensland provides useful information about choosing a rainwater tank.

Get Expert Advice on Rainwater Storage

Whether you need help deciding whether a rainwater tank or bladder is the best option, or are ready to book your rainwater tank installation, get in touch with Salmon Plumbing. We’ve been providing rainwater harvesting solutions and installing rainwater tank systems since 1991.

Send us an online enquiry now!

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