subject: Why Install a Rainwater Tank [print this page] Once nearly everyone had a rain water tank, then it became not only unfashionable, but it was considered costly and inconvenient and councils actually refused to allow them in the cities. Then Australia's dry climate kicked in with an extra dry time and the water that had been in our huge dams began to sink to an all-time low. Councils suddenly realised that without regular, good rainfall, there was not enough water to supply the needs of an increasing population.
Suddenly rain water tanks were back in fashion. Most people nowadays can see the need for installing water tanks. They catch the rainwater run-off from the roof that would otherwise go to waste. Often there is rain in the city, but not in the catchment area, so having rainwater tanks means that everyone can take advantage of any rainfall that may happen along.
This gives you extra water that you can use to wash the car, the dog, water the lawns or garden or even do the laundry with. Apart from the initial cost of the tank, such water is free, making it even more welcome. Not only are you doing your bit to save the drinking water from the dams that supply your city, you are actually benefitting by harvesting the extra water from rain and storms.
When we see those dam levels sinking lower each day it makes us realise just how dependent we all are on water to have a good life. When Australia was first settled the pioneers had to make do with much less water than we use. There were no bubble baths or long, hot showers for them. They placed their barrel under the eaves to catch the run-off from their huts or else they had to go and get water by the bucketful from the nearest river.
Now we have bigger homes and so roof areas to catch more run-off, better tanks for storage and use lots more water. Life has improved dramatically.
