A water tank is one of those installation items people think about least when buying and pay most for when they get it wrong. Buy one too small and it will not last through a supply cut; buy one too large and the water sits in it for days and the hygiene risk begins; choose the wrong material and within a few years you will be dealing with odour, algae or corrosion.
First, separate the purpose
The same word “tank” can describe three different jobs: backup storage for potable and domestic water, a fire reserve, and process or irrigation water. For potable and domestic water, food-grade suitability and opacity to light are not negotiable. A fire reserve is calculated separately and is not “dissolved” into the same volume as the domestic supply. Talking about capacity before this distinction is clear is meaningless.
Volume: “let’s go big” is the wrong instinct
In a home, the practical rule is to back up one to two days of demand at 150-200 litres per person per day; for a family of four a 1-1.5 tonne tank is enough in most scenarios. In complexes and businesses the calculation is made from the number of units, the pattern of supply cuts and the fire requirement if there is one. An oversized tank is not only wasted money, it is lost hygiene: water that waits is water that goes stale.
Choosing the material
| Material | Strength | Where it is the right choice |
|---|---|---|
| Polyethylene (plastic) | Economical, hygienic, light | Homes and small businesses |
| Galvanised | Durable, medium to large volumes | Buildings and facilities |
| Modular panel | Assembled on site, any volume you need | Complexes, hotels, factories, fire reserves |
| Concrete | Very large volumes, buried | Infrastructure projects |
With polyethylene, look for the “suitable for contact with food” marking and a dark body that does not let light through; a tank that admits light is an open invitation to algae.
The three rules of hygiene
- A closed system: the tank lid must seal and the vent must be insect-screened; insects and dust are the most common source of contamination.
- Circulation: the inlet and outlet must be positioned so that the water turns over; in a tank with a “dead corner” the water stagnates in that zone.
- Periodic cleaning: at least once a year, drain, wash and disinfect; in complexes and businesses we tie this into the maintenance calendar.
A tank on its own is not the solution
The tank’s job is to store the water; getting it up to the top floors under pressure is the job of the booster set. Designing the two together solves overflow, dry running and pressure problems from the outset. If you are undecided, look at our Ankara water tank page or simply ask for a site survey.
Ask for a free site survey and a capacity calculation for your project.
WhatsApp / Phone: (0501) 557 80 89 • bilgi@projenza.com
Projenza Engineering and Energy Solutions — an Ankara-based mechanical installation and energy company. About Us • Services • Projects • References
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