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Install rainwater tanks

Moving a rainwater tank from the truck to the house.

Installing a rainwater tank is an excellent way of making use of one of our most important natural resources.

If you live in the country, rainwater is probably already an important source of your water. If you live in an urban area, installing a rainwater tank gives you a personal water supply.

You can use rainwater in place of tap water for watering your garden during water restrictions. If your tank is plumbed into your house, you can also use rainwater in your washing machine and for flushing the toilet.

You might be eligible for rebates or other assistance to help with the cost of installing a new rainwater tank.

Installing a rainwater tank step-by-step guide

Installing a rainwater tank step-by-step guide
Step Number Step Name Actions
1 Research your tank requirements
  • Check with your local council, state or territory health authority to see if there are any regulations that affect the collection and use of rainwater in your local area.
  • Read the general Health advice on use of rainwater tanks.
  • Check if you are eligible for rebates and other assistance to help with the cost of your rainwater tank. Check any specific conditions that may make certain systems ineligible for financial assistance. Many local governments and water authorities also offer a rebate to install a rainwater tank.
  • Work out the best rainwater tank for you. Consider the size of tank, location (including above ground or underground), use of the rainwater and maintenance requirements. Start with Your home technical manual - Rainwater.
  • Decide if you want to use your rainwater indoors, outdoors or both. If you are going to use your rainwater indoors, you will need to have it plumbed into your home.
2 Choose system and supplier
  • Get information and advice from more than one source. Talk to several suppliers or manufacturers about your options before you commit to buying a new rainwater tank.
  • If you want to use your rainwater inside, you may need to have it installed by a licensed plumber. If so, talk to your plumber first to make sure you get a tank that is suitable for plumbing into your home. This may also be a requirement if you are applying for a rebate or other financial assistance.
  • Ask suppliers about any additional costs such as extra fittings, a first flush diverter or pump.
  • Talk to suppliers about specific requirements for different types of tanks and options for positioning the tanks. Ask them if there are special requirements for preparing the site and anything else you need to do before the tank arrives.
  • Check the warranties for different tanks as this can vary greatly.
3 Get your new tank installed
  • If you are installing a tank yourself, ask the supplier to provide you with a copy of the instructions before the tank arrives.
  • If you are having the tank installed, ask the installer to show you how the system works and explain any maintenance needs. If you install a first flush diverter, ask the installer to show you how to clean it.
  • Make sure that your tank is correctly screened so that birds and insects cannot get in.
  • If you have home insurance, remember to add your new tanks to your insurance policy.
4 Maintain your system
  • Always follow the manufacturer's operating instructions, including how often the tank should be drained and cleaned.
  • Try to keep your gutters clean.

More information

See these resources for more information about installing a greywater system:

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Rebates & assistance

As a home owner, renter or landlord, you could be eligible for financial assistance and home assessments to help you start saving energy and water sooner.

Find out about government rebates and assistance.

Why do it?

  • Catch a free supply of water
  • Wash your car and water the garden during water restrictions
  • Help conserve Australia's scarcest natural resource

Did you know?

To estimate how much rainwater you could catch off your roof, multiply the length of your home by the width (in metres) to calculate your roof area. Multiply this by your average rainfall in millilitres. The answer gives you an idea of how many litres you could be catching in a year.

Page last modified: 25 Feb 2010