Are you looking to create a completely off-grid rainwater harvesting system? Want to eliminate the need for an electric pump?
If you answered yes to both of those questions, an elevated above-ground tank may be exactly what you’re looking for. Elevating a water tank increases available water pressure and lessens — or eliminates — the need for pumping. For every foot of elevation, you gain 0.43 PSI of water pressure. The higher you go, the more pressure you get.
Our experience has shown that you don’t need a backyard water tower to create a usable rain system. Quite the contrary: even elevating a tank a few feet drastically increases the functionality of your system.
Years ago, we developed a platform design for elevating an 1,100-gallon rainwater tank for a Mennonite Church here in Columbus, Ohio. The image above shows the platform post-construction — the 2x4s leaning against it were used to roll the tank into place once the groundwork was complete.
We’ve decided to release our design for educational purposes. You’re welcome to reference it, but please consult a structural engineer before constructing any platform for your tank.
