BACKGROUND:

Two new tanks are being installed, one on each side of the house. These will irrigate the garden, supply water to the wicking beds, the downstairs toilet and the washing machine to cover all Angela’s washing needs. The rainwater tanks will play a vital role in the overall water management system.

TIPS:

•    The concrete bases have already been laid and the two tanks are being installed on the same level, so that both fill and empty as a single unit, cancelling the need for multiple pumps and saving electricity.
•    Remember that when any tank is delivered it’s sealed so make sure you or your plumber drills out the appropriate hole so that the water can flow. 
•    Rather than just attach the piping directly to the outlet, it’s best to screw a gate valve in and this becomes a tap.
•    It is critical to attach a gate valve to every tank because if anything happens down the line you can always turn it off at this connection, do maintenance work and then turn it back on again. Otherwise you have to drain the entire tank.
•    The Tembeleski’s tanks are located in passages at the side of the house. To transfer water to the wicking beds. underground pipes need to be installed. A gate valve is also attached to the wicking beds. This enables water to fill the wicking bed tank. Any overflow will water the trees in the fruit forest which doubles as the chicken run.
•    Costa used 32 mm high-density pipe to join the base of the two tanks on each side of the house. It’s tough, easy to use and because it’s a wide gauge allows for maximum water flow.
•    Once the pipe work is in place and the gate valve installed it’s time to fill the wicking beds. No pumps and no power, just turning the gate valve and it’s done.


FURTHER INFORMATION:

When undertaking any household plumbing jobs be sure to consult a licensed plumber. You might also need to get council permission for some works.

Some rebates are available for installing rainwater tanks, check with your local water authority or relevant state government department.

Shop around to find the best tank deal – there are many sizes, and shapes available to suit your needs. Most irrigation specialists or hardware suppliers stock pipes and other necessary equipment.

Costa bought one 5500l and one 2500l tank from:

Action Tanks:
25 Production St Noosaville QLD 4566.
Ph;: 1800066587
        02 94530300
Contact : Brendan
Web: wwww.actiontanks.com.au


Costa bought his irrigation pipe, fittings and supplies from:
Brooks Irrigation:
Unit 6/14 Anderson St Botany NSW 2019
Ph: 02 96666090
Contact : Kevin Dawson
Web: www.brooksnsw.com.au

Costa bought  additional fittings from:
Tradelink  Wetherill Park
19/1199 The Horsley Drive Wetherill Park NSW 2170
Ph: 02 97563966
www.tradelink.com .au