One of the key decisions in designing your rainwater harvesting system is how to store the water safely and effectively. Whether you’re a business seeking greener operations or a homeowner who wants to water the garden with collected rain, you still need to figure out how to store the harvest long-term. This article covers the main options and considerations so you can make the right choice.
Rainwater Storage Basics
The first thing to consider is what type of tank you’ll use — and the biggest concern with any standing water is mosquitoes. Since mosquitoes carry disease and are generally a nuisance, preventing them is a priority. If you have standing water on your property that’s a problem, consider dropping in a Mosquito Dunk, a biodegradable organic larvicide that eliminates mosquito larvae without chemicals.
To prevent mosquito breeding in the first place, your rainwater storage container should be covered at all times. The rain barrels we sell come with lids that prevent mosquito access and block algae growth. Keeping the tank fully enclosed will also keep out other critters like bugs and toads.
Types of Rainwater Harvesting Tanks
For larger-scale storage, most systems use a cistern — a large tank that holds water. These can be made from concrete or heavy-duty plastic and installed underground or above ground. Here’s a quick comparison:
- Underground concrete cisterns are labor-intensive to install but can last a lifetime.
- Underground plastic cisterns are easier to transport and install, but you cannot drive vehicles over them without risk of collapse.
- Above-ground cisterns and tanks are also easy to install, though local homeowner regulations may restrict their use.
Installation and Safety
Regardless of tank type, all rainwater storage containers should be installed on a secure, level foundation. As tanks fill, the weight of the water can shift, so stability is important. Water is heavy — make sure children understand that rain barrels and tanks are not play equipment.
For homes using rain barrels, keep your downspouts and gutters regularly cleaned to prevent roof debris from contaminating the stored water — especially important for young or edible plants. A downspout cap can help keep debris out of your cistern or barrel between rain events.
Talk to Rain Brothers
Understanding your storage options is a crucial part of designing the right system for your goals. Rain Brothers has more than 20 years of experience in the design, installation, and maintenance of rainwater harvesting systems. Contact us today — or call or text us at 937-949-1100 — to discuss your options.
