Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What size tank do I need?
A:  The general rule is fit the biggest tank you possibly can.  The bigger the tank the less it costs you per litre of water you collect.  Of course there are a number of considerations including:

• Available space on the property
• Access to the site where tank will be situated
• What the water will be used for, how much you will need
• Aesthetics of property

It’s worth considering that we are very experienced in rolling tanks over fences, or removing and replacing fences when needed.  Sometimes a crane might be needed to lift a tank into place.

It’s also worth noting that some councils only offer a rebate on a minimum tank size. Please refer to our Rebates page for more information.

Q: Can I still get a rebate for a water tank?
A: Yes!  The Queensland State Government is still offering $1000 towards the supply and installation of a water tank with no conditions.  Many local councils also offer a rebate on top of the State Government rebate. Please refer to our rebate page for further information about rebates available from your local council

Q: Do I have to plumb my tank to the toilet or washing machine to get a rebate?
A: Currently the State Government rebate does not require you to plumb your tank internally to qualify for a rebate.  This will change from 1 February  2008.

 Q: What happens if I do have a tank plumbed to the toilet or washing machine and the tank runs out of water?
A: Gardeners Watertanksrecommends a separate line from the pump to the toilet or washing machine.  There is no need to plumb it to your mains. This way if the tank runs out of water simply turn your tank water off and your mains water back on.  It’s that simple.

Q: Will water restrictions apply if my tank is plumbed to the toilet or washing machine?
A: No! If your tank is not filled up with mains water, only rain water, then you are free to use that water as you wish

Q: Can mosquitoes breed in my tank?
A: No! All tanks come with a mosquito proof strainer at the top of the tank and mosquito proof gauze for the overflow.  This also stops other vermin from getting into your tank

Q: How much water will I catch?
A: The amount of water you catch depends on the size of the catchment and the amount of rain. 
The catchment is the area of roof that services the downpipes that will lead to the tank.  An area of 50 square metres is an average sized catchment for a 5,000 litre tank.  This sized catchment will harvest approximately 500 litres for every 10mm of rain.  100mm of rain will fill the tank up. 

Q: Do I need to have all the downpipes going into my tank?
A: No!  In most cases one downpipe will do.  If your tank is 5,000 to 10,000 litres you only need 50 to 100 square metres of catchment to service your tank.  In fact too many downpipes can cause a problem if your tank is not big enough.  The tank could overflow from the outlet instead of the overflow and cause damage to your base and pump.

Q: How much does an installation cost?
A: It depends on the size and position of your tank, how much site preparation is needed ensure the tank stays level and the composition of the base. 

Example: An average 5,000 litre tank on a concrete slab, with one to two downpipes diverted to the tank and plumbed to a toilet or washing machine is anywhere from $1800.  If you do not wish the tank to be plumbed internally the cost is reduced to approximately $1200.  If you have a crusher dust base instead of concrete you can bring the cost down to around $900.

Please refer to our Installations page for further information.

Q:  Do I need a pump?
A: In most cases a pump is necessary to get enough pressure to hose a garden or fill up a toilet.