12 Questions You Should Ask Before Purchasing A Water ...

If you're considering installing a water tank on your property, there are several important questions you should ask beforehand. Water tanks can be a major investment, so doing your research is critical before making this purchase. In this blog post, we'll explore the 12 most important questions to ask when shopping for a new water tank.

1. What material should the tank be made of?

The material of the water tank should be one of your first considerations, as it impacts durability, water quality, lifetime costs, and more. Common materials for water tanks include concrete, poly tanks, galvanized steel, stainless steel, and more. Concrete tanks are long-lasting but can be expensive. Plastic poly tanks are affordable but may need replacing sooner. Stainless steel offers superior durability for a higher price tag. Assess your budget, intended use, and longevity needs when deciding on a material.

2. What capacity tank do I need?

Carefully calculate what capacity tank makes sense for your intended purpose, family size, livestock needs, gardening plans, and other water uses. A tank that is too small may run out frequently or not meet your water demands. A tank too large is an unnecessary expense. Take note of periods of higher usage, such as summer months or during a vegetable garden's growing season. Allow for future expansion plans as well when deciding on a water tank's capacity.

3. How frequently will the tank need to be refilled?

Along with tank capacity, carefully consider how often you will likely need to refill the tank each year based on your water needs and habits. Will the tank be refilled by rainfall collection only or will you need to bring in supplemental water? What is your area’s average annual rainfall? How many drought periods typically occur? These are all factors that can impact optimal tank size and refill frequency.

4. What external construction considerations are needed?

External construction needs include a stable, reinforced base, level ground for installation, overhangs or secured lids to prevent contamination from above, and protection from sunlight exposure if your tank is plastic. You may need to construct a concrete, crushed stone, or compacted earth base for the tank. Also have electrical or pump lines installed if applicable. Address all of these prior to delivery of your tank.

5. How should internal tank components be configured?

Questions to consider about internal components include whether you want partitions or segments within the tank, what type of lining you need for potable water purposes, if interior ladders or lifts are included for access hatches, what cleaning access points are built in, whether baffles, weighted inlet pipes, or calming inlets should be installed to prevent interior erosion from incoming water flows, and compatibility with any existing plumbing infrastructure.

6. How will tank overflow be dealt with?

One very important consideration is planning for excess water outflow when your tank reaches capacity after heavy rains or frequent fills. Options for handling overflow include routing excess water to a secondary onsite holding pond, a rain garden, drainage areas away from structures, or even back into a graywater system for reuse around your property for non-potable water needs.

7. How will water be extracted from my tank?

Assess extraction needs before purchasing a tank. Will you require an electric pump system or simply use gravity outlets? Do you need fittings compatible with particular plumbing fixtures, appliances, outdoor spigots or irrigation systems? Are backflow prevention devices needed? Clarify all water extraction components so your tank purchase or customization provides full functionality.

8. What kind of maintenance is required?

Factor in both short and long-term maintenance needs for your tank. This includes initial tank cleaning, periodic exterior surface cleaning and inspection, treatment to prevent algae or bacteria inside the tank, checking and replacing internal filtration systems or water treatment components, integrity testing for leaks, monitoring and repair of any cracks or problem areas over time, and verifying that pumps, electrical lines and extraction systems continue functioning.

9. What safety standards should my tank conform to?

Verify that any potential water tank meets protocols such as NSF/ANSI, UL, FM or other domestic and international quality and safety standards. Approved, inspected tanks ensure healthy, potable water for your purposes as well as structural stability and longevity. Research requirements for above or below ground tank installations in your geographic location as well.

10. How qualified is the vendor or installation company?

Only work with highly experienced water tank suppliers who provide you with detailed customer service, project consultation and transparent pricing. Check reviews, credentials, certifications and proven expertise in your particular type and size of water tank installation. Verify they follow regional protocols and can correctly handle permit processes. Ensure they will properly size, customize and install your tank suited for the exact specifications of your property.

11. Can existing rainwater harvesting systems be incorporated?

If you already utilize rainwater harvesting elements like gutters, downspouts, barrels or cisterns, determine whether your new water tank can be correctly integrated to take advantage of these. Divert guttering to channel precipitation directly into your tank, for example, or connect intermediate barrel storage to gravity feed into the main tank. Utilize preexisting rain catchment investments to offset water tank refill requirements where possible.

12. What are all included costs, options and long-term expenses?

The purchasing process should clarify total costs for the water tank itself plus required components like pumps, wiring, attachments and installation expenses. However, also project long-term costs for maintenance, cleaning treatments, filter or treatment system replacements, potential repairs, inspections and periodic pumping out of accumulated sediment if your tank lacks a bottom drain. Estimate total lifetime costs, not just initial purchase and setup fees, when determining your budget.

Choosing the ideal water tank entails careful consideration of all key factors - the 12 outlined in detail here are crucial questions to investigate before making this major investment. Addressing aspects from construction, capacity and maintenance to safety standards, vendor qualifications and expenses will ensure your tank purchase fulfills all intended purposes for years to come. With research and planning guided by these questions, you can have peace of mind knowing your tailored water tank system reliably meets your family's or property's specific water needs into the future.

When shopping for the right water tank, knowing what options are available can make the process easier and faster and also provide more certainty that you are selecting the best water tank for the job. When planning, know the full details of the application the water tank will be used for and how it relates to the needed water volume, water tank type, and specifications. When researching, use this guide to review the different water tanks, their options, and how to choose the best water tank to buy based on application or product specs.

Our buying guide provides a comprehensive overview of water tank options and the top points to help select the right tank when considering and comparing by material, application, and type.

Guide Contents

Water Tank Definition

A water tank is any container designed and dedicated to the successful, secure storage and handling of water. Water can be potable water (drinking water) for fresh water needs such as for human consumption, livestock, production of food and beverages, or it can be non-potable water such as for industry, construction, and reclaimed water uses. Any container that can hold water for use on-demand can be considered a water tank. Water tanks are made from either plastic, metal, or earthen materials such as concrete. 

In today’s product market, a water tank is most often a container that has been precisely engineered and manufactured from select materials according to various professional guidelines, standards and/or certifications. 

In the United States, these standards and certifications include the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and/or the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) when applicable.

For example, a potable grade plastic tank must be made from FDA approved food grade material and be certified to ANSI and NSF 61 standards. Water tanks are available in two grade qualities: potable and non-potable. Potable water certified products can be used for drinking water while non potable products cannot.

Common Water Tank Uses

Water tanks are widely used across many modern applications. The different water tank types are frequently used in 6 main categories. There is some overlap in uses, such as for rainwater harvesting, irrigation, and fire suppression, which are common applications in each category. Common uses for water tanks include:

1. Agriculture | Farms, Ranches, Orchards, Vineyards, Crops, Irrigation and Irrigation Injection Systems, Greenhouse Operations, Livestock, Animal Care and Processing, Feedstock Preparation, Mixing and Batching of Agricultural Chemicals, Heating and Cooling Systems, Cleaning 
2. Commercial | Construction, Mining, Landscaping, Groundskeeping, Pest Control, Cleaning, Pressure Washing 
3. Government and Municipalities | Water Treatment, Reserve Water, Fire Fighting and Suppression Systems, Infrastructure Maintenance
4. Residential, Homeowners and Rural | Rainwater Harvesting, Well Water Reservoir, Groundwater Treatment, Homesteading, Off Grid Living, Water Hauling, Irrigation, Emergency Water Reserves
5. Food and Beverage | Wineries and Breweries, Handling and Storage of Process Water, Materials, Ingredients, and Products
6. Industrial | Product Manufacturing, Production Line Management, Fabrication, Wastewater Collection and Treatment

Water Tank Material Types

Water tanks come in many shapes, sizes and are made from different materials. There are three main material types frequently used for modern water tank products with each further divided into subcategories. Common water tank material types are plastic, metal, and earthen. Plastic water tanks are storage containers made from polyethylene, polypropylene, or fiberglass. Metal water tanks are made from galvanized steel or stainless steel. Earthen water tanks usually refer to concrete tanks, which will not be covered here.

Metal Tanks

Galvanized Steel Tanks

Galvanized steel water tanks are made from galvanized-coated, high-quality U.S. steel that makes them strong and highly resistant to weather, effects of sunlight UV exposure, physical impacts, and environmental corrosion. The primary benefits of these tanks are large water volume storage capacity, longevity, and durability. Steel water tanks are rigorously tested and certified for use in large volume, potable and non potable water storage. Steel water tanks are known for their long life, lasting service and reliability in holding and providing water. 

Galvanized steel water tanks are frequently used for businesses including brewery and winery operations, in agriculture for farms and livestock, as well as by educational facilities, government buildings and healthcare institutions often for rainwater harvesting, irrigation, fire suppression systems, fire response, and emergency water reserves. Additional uses include on mining sites for dust control, cleaning, and more, in aquaculture, and in stormwater management as required to meet BMP or LID requirements.

The purchase price of a steel water tank will be more than a plastic water tank but less than stainless steel on a per-volume comparison. Large volume, 20,000+ gallon galvanized steel water tanks typically require piece-by-piece assembly and professional installation, and can therefore be installed in remote or difficult to access areas. This also makes steel tanks capable of relocation if needed. 

Steel tanks are available in many size capacities and style options.

Galvanized Steel Tank Overview:

• Size: 90 Gallons – 100,000+ Gallons
• Large Volume Range
• Long Term Service and Reliability
• Long Lifespan: Potential 20-30+ Years
• Trusted Durability of U.S. Steel
• Zinc-Plated Galvanized Steel
• High Capacity Tanks Intended for Potable Water Use ANSI/NSF 61 Certified Liner
• Many Personalization and Customization Options
• Inquire About Available Style Options

Galvanized Steel Water Tanks

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Stainless Steel Tanks

Stainless steel water tanks are considered the top-of-the-line option for material quality, cleanability, hygienic characteristics, and long-term water storage. When it comes to longevity, stainless steel water tanks are hard to beat, potentially providing up to 4 to 6 times longer service life. However, they are often easy to beat in pricing as stainless steel water tanks are typically the most expensive water tank choice. 

The increased cost of stainless steel tanks is not without its reasons and benefits in terms of using and keeping the water tank. Stainless steel water tanks are the best option among available water tanks in lifespan, durability, purity, and cleanliness. A downside to stainless steel water tanks is – depending on the size – they can be heavy and difficult to relocate should the need arise. This contrasts with polyethylene plastic water tanks that are significantly lightweight by comparison. 

Stainless steel water tanks are high quality choices for water handling, well water systems, stormwater management, and rainwater harvesting and are most often used in residential and commercial applications.

Stainless Steel Tank Overview:

• Size: 90 Gallons – 4,000+ Gallons
• Top in Lifespan: Potential 50+ Years
• Top in Cleanliness Standards 
• Corrosion Resistance and Durability of Stainless Steel
• Naturally Potable Grade Quality
• ANSI/NSF 61 Synthetic Fittings / Components 

Stainless Steel Water Tanks

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Plastic Tanks

Polyethylene Tanks

Polyethylene is a synthetic plastic material used to make a wide range of modern products, including water storage tanks. High density polyethylene, often just “poly” for short, is the plastic type most used in the manufacture of storage tanks. Modern poly tanks are safe, reliable, durable, and long lasting for both potable and non potable water. They are the most used water tank type by frequency across the full range of applications and available product options. The polyethylene tank type is also widely used in the storage and handling of chemicals and solutions as a chemical storage tank, effectively demonstrating the tank’s strength. 

Polyethylene water tanks are lightweight, easy to transport, and install compared to metal water tanks. Poly tanks are engineered to be structurally sound and long lasting for water storage and use in both indoor and outdoor applications. Most modern polyethylene water tanks are one piece, rotational mold manufactured to remove seams, weak spots, and include ultraviolet (UV) inhibiting compounds to stabilize the plastic against degradation and damage from sunlight.

Poly water tanks are available in an extensive range of model options, volume capacities, shapes, styles, and size dimensions.

Polyethylene Tank Overview:

• Size: 10 Gallons – 20,000 Gallons
• Lightweight and Durable
• Rust Proof, Weather Resistant
• UV Stabilized
• Versatile
• Many Options To Match Application Needs
• Many Tank Types: Vertical, Underground, Cone Bottom, Potable, Utility, IBC, etc.

Polyethylene Water Tanks

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Polypropylene Tanks

Polypropylene is a less common material choice for bulk water storage, such as in excess of 10,000 gallons. Water tanks made from polypropylene plastic are often smaller in volume with some availability up to 6,800 gallons. Polypropylene water tanks are commonly open top style tanks, which are often used as day tanks, batch tanks, stock tanks, or as mixing tanks for blending water with various materials or ingredients and are therefore by definition not exclusively water tanks. 

Polypropylene water tanks have a higher temperature tolerance range versus polyethylene water tanks and are rated acceptable up to 210°F, compared to 100-120°F for poly tanks. This makes polypropylene good for applications that require heated or near-boiling water temperatures.

Polypropylene Tank Overview:

• Size: 1 gallons – 6800 gallons
• Lightweight, Reusable
• High Temperature Tolerance
• Often Open-Top Tank Style
• Available in Square and Cylindrical Models

Polypropylene Tanks

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Fiberglass Tanks

Fiberglass water tanks are also known as fiberglass reinforced plastic or FRP tanks. Fiberglass water tanks are made from a base polymer material, often polyethylene, that is reinforced with an additional material such as glass. FRP tanks are long lasting, reliable, durable tanks highly resistant to corrosion, weather, and UV damage. 

A fiberglass water tank often has a higher purchase cost compared to polyethylene or polypropylene tanks but make up for the increased cost with increased service life, dependability, and storage capacity. FRP water tanks are often custom fabricated and shipped or they are shipped in sections for installation on-site, and therefore require a quote and working with a manufacturer or supplier. 

Fiberglass tanks are suited for above ground or underground installation. Capacity can range up to 50,000 gallons or more. FRP tanks are frequently used in agriculture, commercial and municipal applications for bulk water provision, rainwater harvesting, food production applications, and fire suppression.

Fiberglass Tank Overview:

• Size: Often Custom Fabricated to Desired Capacity
• Long-Term Lifespan, Service, and Reliability
• High Corrosion and Weather Resistance

Fiberglass Tanks

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What Water Tank is Best

All modern water tanks and product types are successful and satisfactory for the task of securely storing water. The differences between tank material and design, such as volume, shape and color, are intended to better serve different applications to provide the best outcome in terms of tank lifespan and suitability for a certain use over another.

The question will always be whether one tank material or type is best or better than another. The truest answer to this question is that it will depend. The best water tank will depend on what it will be used for, where it will be used, for how long, and the amount of financial investment that matches a budget. The water tank that is best for one application or scenario may not be what is best for another.

Top Points in Water Tank Selection

The following is a comparison and ranking of water tanks by cost, durability, versatility, portability and capacity.

• Cost: Polyethylene water tanks are best in terms of cost effectiveness, followed by polypropylene. Stainless steel water tanks often have the highest costs. Galvanized steel and fiberglass water tanks range in the middle on a by-material, per-volume basis and often have the largest total cost due to having the greatest volume. 
• Durability: Stainless steel tanks are often considered best in overall strength, service resistance, and longevity, followed by galvanized metal tanks, fiberglass, then plastic water tanks.
• Versatility: Polyethylene water tanks rank highest in versatility due to the range of molding options and applications they have been designed for. Metal water tanks are often stationary and have fewer overall use options.
• Portability: Plastic water tanks are best for portability and transport applications due to being lightweight and available in many styles that have been intentionally engineered for mobile uses.
• Capacity: Galvanized steel water tanks rank best in total water volume range, offering the greatest storage capacities, followed by fiberglass, then polyethylene water tanks and last by polypropylene and stainless steel.

Choosing a Plastic Water Tank by Application

There are many plastic water tank types, and many are categorized for use in particular applications, while other types are well suited for several uses. To choose the best water tank for a job, we recommend understanding both the ins-and-outs of the application along with the types of water tank available. 

Below are the different water tank types reviewed, ranked, and recommended by the ones that are best for above ground, underground, agriculture, drinking water, emergency water reserves, food truck and concession, fire control and response, mixing, transport, and rainwater harvesting applications.

Above Ground

Above ground water tanks are built for almost any ground level scenario or application that needs to collect, store, distribute potable or non-potable water. Above ground water tanks are engineered for lasting durability and bulk water storage in a comparatively compact, space saving design. They are available in a wide volume selection up to 20,000 gallons. 

An above ground tank is a specific category of plastic water tank intended for stationary installation. They are not safety-rated for transport when bearing a water load. 

These tank types are used in an extensive range of applications. Industry examples include agriculture, commercial, industrial, food processing, government and municipal. They are frequently used in residential applications for rainwater harvesting, emergency water reserves, well water, and water storage.

Specs

Above ground water tanks are available in green, black, brown, white, sometimes red, and sometimes blue. They are traditionally cylindrical in shape and most often taller than they are wide. Volume capacity ranges from 10 gallons up to 20,000 gallons. Price can range from $80+ to $35,000+.

Above Ground Tanks

Underground

Underground water tanks are engineered with a compact, low profile design that makes excavation and burial easier, and with a structural durability to withstand the weight and pressure of being buried. An underground water tank is also sometimes known as a cistern. Common uses for underground water tanks include:

1. Groundwater / Well Water Storage
2. Potable Water Reserve and Supply
3. Rainwater Harvesting Reservoir
4. Emergency Reserve Supply
5. Stormwater Management

Underground water tanks differ from septic tanks in that they are fabricated from FDA approved food grade material and are ANSI/NSF 61 approved for drinking water applications. Using an underground water tank provides the following benefits:

• Protection from the elements, such as sun damage, warming, and freezing
• Protection from environmental and workplace impacts
• Protection from algae growth
• Protection from animal contamination or pest infestation risk
• Stable water temperature

Specs

Underground water tanks are available in spherical, low profile, and bruiser style designs. Tank risers for aboveground manway access are available and recommended. Underground water tanks and cisterns are available in volume capacity from 250 gallons to 20,000 gallons. Price can range from $500+ to $50,000+.

Underground Water Tanks

Agriculture, Irrigation, Livestock

The use of water tanks in agriculturetanks in agriculture applications spans a wide range of work cases and commonly used water tank types. Top recommended water tanks for agriculture applications include leg tanks, vertical tanks, underground cisterns, cone bottom tanks, IBC tote tanks, rainwater harvesting tanks, and stock tanks.

Leg Tanks 

In horizontal, elliptical, and drainable style options, leg tanks are a popular choice for mobile water needs on farms and livestock ranches. Available in both potable and non-potable agriculture grade, leg tanks make an excellent choice for transporting water to where it’s needed such as delivery to livestock, irrigation tanks, and agriculture chemical mixing applications as nurse tanks. Volume capacity for leg tanks ranges from 15 gallons to 6,000 gallons. Price can range from $100+ to $20,000+. 

Farm Leg Tanks

Vertical Tanks

Vertical, aboveground style water tanks are cylindrical shaped, stationary water tanks. They are frequently used to provide water for chemical mixing and preparation operations, rainwater harvesting, irrigation, drought reserves, and fire emergency response. Volume capacity for vertical water tanks ranges from 10 gallons to 20,000 gallons. Price can range from $100+ to $35,000+.

Farm Vertical Tanks

Underground Cisterns

Underground cisterns are the only water tanks engineered, rated, and approved for complete burial. Other water tank models are not designed to withstand the load stress of being buried. Underground water tanks are used in agriculture rainwater harvesting, well water storage, water treatment, and emergency water supply applications. Volume capacity for underground cisterns ranges from 250 gallons to 20,000 gallons. Price can range from $600+ to $50,000+. 

Farm Cisterns

Cone Bottom Tanks

Cone bottom tanks have a sloped bottom and central drain that promotes full discharge. They require a tank stand to support the container and allow access to the drain valve for using the tank’s contents. Cone bottom tanks are used in agriculture when complete drainage is needed or beneficial and are often used in mixing applications. Volume capacity for cone bottom tanks ranges from 7 gallons to 13,000 gallons. Price can range from $100+ to $45,000+. 

Farm Conical Tanks

IBC Tote Tanks

IBC tote tanks are versatile, high-mobility, easy-to-handle containers often selected as an alternative to other portable water tank options due to their space saving design, low cost, and ability for forklift handling. IBC totes are made in a range of models with the 275 gallon and 330 gallon caged IBC tote most often used in water applications. Caged IBC tote options available include new, rebottled, and reconditioned in volumes from 135 gallons to 330 gallons and price ranging from $190+ to $400+. 

Farm IBC Totes

Rainwater Harvesting Tanks

Rainwater harvesting tanks are purpose-built for collecting and providing rainwater for water-requiring activities. On a farm, livestock ranch, or other agriculture operation, the practice of rainwater harvesting can serve as an alternative water source for the many ag applications that rely on water. Poly rain containers will feature a tank screen accessory included, a pre-plumbed overflow, and one or two bulkhead fittings.

Farm Rainwater Tanks

Volume capacity for metal and poly rainwater collection tanks range from 90 gallons to 5,000 gallons. Price can range from $200 to $15,000+. Large volume galvanized steel rainwater tanks can hold 20,000 to 100,000 gallons with pricing starting at $19,000 and up.

Stock Tanks

Stock tanks are USDA approved, open top containers used to hold water for livestock to drink from. Use stock tanks to provide a watering solution for farm animals when natural water sources are not available. They are often used as water troughs and feeding troughs for cattle, horses, pigs, and goats. Other uses include fish breeding for koi and tilapia as well as in-ground, decorative ponds. Volume capacity for stock tanks range from 50 gallons to 320 gallons. Price can range from $120+ to $350+. 

Farm Stock Tanks

Vineyards, Wineries, and Breweries

Water tanks are used in vineyards, wineries, and breweries not necessarily just for holding and providing water. Modern storage tank options are also used in raw material handling of grapes, hops, barley and yeast, in waste collection, as well as pre-production and post-production applications. Premium tank options for this industry include poly tanks, galvanized steel tanks, stainless steel tanks, and IBC totes.

Poly Wine Tanks

Polyethylene wine tanks include many product options including cone bottom tanks, chemical tanks, water tanks, sprayer tanks, open top tanks, and portable tanks. Polyethylene tanks provide the benefits of low cost, low movement weight, and scalability. 

Poly Wine Tanks

Steel Wine Tanks

Steel wine tanks are 20,000+ gallon, ANSI/NSF 61 certified containers ideal for winemaking and distillery applications when superior storage capacity is needed. Learn more about steel tank products here.

Steel Wine Tanks

Wine IBC Tote Tanks

The Vino ProTankTM is an IBC tote specifically engineered for winemaking applications. Available in two thicknesses with different oxygen permeation rates ideal for either red wines, white wines, ciders, or spirits. Wine IBC totes are new products built exclusively for winemaking, fermentation, and aging, learn more here and see the products here.

Wine IBC Totes

Drinking Water | Potable Water

Any water tank that carries ANSI, NSF, and FDA certifications, and/or AWWA requirements (as applicable) is approved for use with drinking water systems and potable water applications. The type of water tank that is best for a potable water application will depend on the specific requirements and needs of the job, location or individual interests. Examples of this include total water volume required, expected service life, site for tank installation, work needs such as mobility, and aesthetics, meaning visual appeal for matching of property, backdrops, or increasing property value.

Plastic Water Tanks

Plastic potable water tanks have the greatest selection of shapes, styles, colors and sizes. They are the correct choice when portability is needed as they are made in many styles optimized for transport with examples including leg tanks, IBC totes, truck bed tanks, and flat bottom utility tanks.  

Potable Water Poly Tanks

Plastic tanks provide options for underground storage and aboveground storage with appreciable service life and certified quality standards. The tanks have lower purchase costs, are lightweight, easier to install and maintain, and with various options to best match an individual use or property needs.

Steel Water Tanks 

Galvanized steel water tanks are an ideal choice for large volume potable water applications. They are limited to stationary installations but offer a long term solution as a potable water source. Steel water tanks are available with different options, roofing designs, and sometimes colors to match a property and/or environment style. Water storage capacity ranges from 20,000 gallons to 100,000+ gallons depending on the manufacturer.

Large Potable Steel Tanks

Smaller volume steel water tanks are also available with a storage capacity range from 90 gallons to 3,750 gallons ideal for home-based or smaller commercial, potable water applications.

Small Potable Steel Tanks

Stainless Steel Water Tanks

Stainless steel water tanks are a top choice for tank and water quality standards with a long service life but have the highest cost for largest value. Various design styles are available to match individual installation, property, or interests. Water volume storage capacity ranges from 90 gallons to 3,750 gallons depending on the manufacturer.

Potable SS Water Tanks

Emergency Water | Reserve Water | Disaster Preparation

In this application, the water tank is used to keep a sizable volume of drinking water on hand for emergency reserves and survival preparedness in the event of a disaster that impacts the quality or availability of the traditional water supply. Emergency water tanks are poly tank types built exclusively for this use and are available in a select volume range that makes them easier to install and keep on a personal property such as within garages, sheds, and basements. An emergency water tank features an additional spigot tap valve located at height above the tank base to allow easier access to the tank’s water reserves in times of use. 

Specs

Emergency water tanks are freshwater blue in color to make them easier to see and indicate the tank as a drinking water source. Volume capacity for emergency water tanks ranges in size from 100 gallons up to 500 gallons. Price can range from $400+ to $1,100+.

Emergency Tanks

Food Truck and Concession

Water tanks for food trucks and concession stands are food grade tanks often used to hold water for preparing consumable goods in mobile and/or remote applications. These tank types are used to prepare goods for sale such as food, beverages, dessert, treats and the like. Food truck and concession tanks must be food grade approved and potable water certified. They are often polyethylene in material but stainless steel is sometimes used. 

The best tank types for food truck and concession stand applications are freestanding, securable, and with a low profile to improve transport ease and stability. Popular water tank types for this application include the utility tank, loaf tank, and low profile water tank types.

Specs

Food truck and concession water tanks are often boxlike in shape and feature tie-down grooves to secure the tank during movement. Tanks can range in capacity from 7 gallons up to 1,050 gallons. Price can range from $70+ to $2,200+.

Food Truck Tanks

Fire Control and Response

Fire control and response water tanks are installed and used in rural and remote locations where water resources, municipal supply, and/or dedicated infrastructure may be limited or nonexistent. They are sometimes used as a secondary fire control system when there is a concern that the primary system may fail. Water tanks for fire control and response are bulk storage tanks for on-site fire protection and portable water tanks used in mobile applications. 

Fire protection tanks are above ground and underground poly tanks, steel water tanks, and fiberglass water tanks. These water tank types are frequently used in sprinkler systems or worksite protection in the event of a fire emergency. Portable water tanks for fire response are horizontal or elliptical leg tanks and utility tanks used with a pump and spray hose delivery system. These water tank types are designed to fit and be secured in truck beds or on pull behind trailers. 

Mixing (Open Top Tanks)

Open top water tanks are not intended to serve as long-term water holding tanks. This is due to their main uses as batch tanks, day tanks, and as mixing tanks to blend water with an ingredient or material to produce a solution for use, usually in industrial fabrication, manufacturing, food/beverage production, and agriculture applications. Depending on the use, mixing tanks may or may not have to be food grade quality water tanks. 

Specs

Open top tanks are manufactured from either polypropylene or polyethylene and available styles include cone bottom, round, and rectangular. Mixing tanks can range in capacity from 1 gallon up to 6800 gallons. Price can range from $20+ up to $20,000+.

Open Top Tanks

Portable, Transport, and Mobility

The water tank category known as portable water tanks are intentionally designed and engineered to be both easier and safer to transport and relocate based on the job or need. Portable water tanks include a broad range of tank types and size options. Most portable water tanks are manufactured from polyethylene plastic. Portable water tank volume capacity ranges from 7 gallons up to 6,000+ gallons with pricing available from $35+ to $19,000+.

There are many portable water tank models with the most common selected and trusted for use being leg tanks, low profile transport tanks, utility tanks, and intermediate bulk containers (IBCs).

Leg Tanks

Leg tanks are a popular portable water tank type often used in rural homes, agriculture, construction, roadwork, and municipal applications. Leg tanks are engineered with structural support legs that work as baffles. The baffles limit water sloshing and provide greater stability and weight distribution during transport. 

Leg tanks come in horizontal, elliptical, and drainable styles. Horizontal leg tanks are circular in shape. Elliptical leg tanks are oval in shape. Drainable leg tanks feature a built-in sump that promotes liquid drainage. Leg tanks are ideal for transport in pickup truck beds, flat beds, trailers, or other company trucks.

Poly leg tanks range in size from 15 gallons up to 6,000 gallons with pricing from $100+ up to $20,000+. Leg tanks often require the additional purchase of steel support bands to secure and/or aid in tank stability during transport. 

Leg Transport Tanks

Low Profile Transport Tanks

Low profile transport tanks have a reduced vertical height and lower center of gravity for easier, more secure transport. Their size and shape allow the tanks to fit nicely in the cargo bed or trailer of many transport vehicles. The low height profile also makes the tank good for use in height restricted areas such as beneath decks, houses, job shack trailers, etc.

Low profile water tanks can range in size from 50 gallons up to 2,400 gallons with pricing from $240+ to $4,400+. 

Low Profile Transport Tanks

Utility Tanks

Utility tanks are flat bottom, freestanding, self-supporting water tanks with a boxlike shape. They are often used in residential, commercial, agriculture, industrial applications, and for pressure washing, auto detailing, and general water hauling. The utility tank style water tank is available in many sizes for a secure fit where they are needed as well as in tight areas and small spaces.

Utility water tanks are available in black, white, and yellow colors. Most have gallon indicators on the tank exterior. Black and white are FDA approved for potable water. Yellow tanks are for non-potable water applications often involving chemicals such as in landscape maintenance and pesticides. White and yellow tanks are translucent that makes monitoring water levels easy.

Flat bottom utility tanks are available in sizes ranging from 7 gallons up to 4,200 gallons with pricing from $70+ to $6,800+. 

Utility Transport Tanks

Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBC Totes)

The intermediate bulk container (IBC, IBC tote, and IBC tank) is a leading option among portable water tanks. IBCs are available in different designs and materials to suit different applications with IBCs manufactured from polyethylene, carbon steel and stainless steel available. 

IBCs are engineered for improved ease of mobility and maneuverability. They are sized around standard shipping pallets, have integrated pallet bases for forklifts and pallet jacks, and are box-like in shape – together making an IBC container easy to move, organize, stack, integrate, and transport.

Intermediate bulk containers are available in sizes ranging from 110 gallons up to 550 gallons. Price can range from $200+ to $4,900+. Prices for the most commonly used 275 gallon and 330 gallon caged IBC tote ranges from $200+ to $400+.

IBC Tote Transport Tanks

Rainwater Harvesting

Polyethylene, galvanized steel, and stainless steel water tanks are all acceptable choices frequently used in rainwater harvesting practice. Dedicated rainwater harvesting tanks are available in each of the different material options.

Polyethylene Rainwater Harvesting Tanks

Polyethylene rainwater tanks are a common, low cost, good value choice for rainwater harvesting. They are lightweight, easy to install, and easier than metal tanks to relocate or modify. Darker colored poly tanks are best as they resist algae growth better than light colored tanks. 

Polyethylene rainwater tanks are available in vertical, slimline (also known as doorway) and underground water tank styles. 

• Vertical rainwater collection tanks are a standard, all-around good choice for rainwater applications available in volumes from 100 gallons up to 5,050 gallons. 
• Slimline rain tanks are rectangular, slim bodied, low height water tanks better suited for installation within garages, sheds, along walls, walkways, and structures available in volume from 100 gallons up to 530 gallons. 
• Underground rain tanks eliminate concerns of algae growth, freezing temperatures, sunlight exposure and provide stable temperatures for the stored water available in volume from 250 gallons up to 20,000 gallons.

Galvanized Steel Rainwater Tanks

Galvanized steel rainwater tanks provide an excellent long term, high volume choice for rainwater harvesting and use systems. The make of a galvanized steel tank affords a lasting service life but, compared to poly rain tanks, cost more and large volume models are more time-intensive to install, relocate, and maintain, often requiring professional installation. 

The material and design of galvanized steel water tanks provides reliable resistance against corrosion, weathering and algae growth. Large volume galvanized steel rainwater tanks have various design and customization options available to either change the look or functionality of the product. Small volume steel rain tank capacity ranges from 90 gallons to 3,750 gallons. Large volume steel rain tank capacity ranges from 20,000 gallons to 100,000 gallons.

Stainless Steel Rainwater Tanks

Stainless steel rainwater tanks provide the best for long term use in rainwater harvesting but have the highest cost investment per gallon storage capacity. They are the top option for lasting durability and reliability. For residential use, the max volume capacity range is limited as large volume products are often cost prohibitive and therefore typically reserved for agriculture, commercial, or industrial settings. 

Similar to galvanized steel, stainless steel water tanks are available in various designs and features intended to meet a customer’s specific wants or needs for use. Stainless steel rainwater tank volume capacity ranges from 90 gallons to 3,750 gallons.

Choosing a Water Tank by Price

Price is an important consideration in water tank selection. Whether the buyer is a consumer, business, farm, non-profit, government or municipality, they all operate on a budget and have a set limit on what they are willing to spend. Knowing how much the different water tank types can cost will help narrow down the wide product selection and streamline the process of finding the right water tank for the job.

Table of Water Tank Prices

See the following table of water tank prices. Note the prices are provided as a general range for reference to aid in water tank selection and are subject to change based on market prices, material costs, supply chain fluctuations.

Water Tank TypePotential Price RangeVertical Water Tanks$100+ to $35,000+Cone Bottom Tanks$100+ to $45,000+Steel Water Tanks$700+ to $65,000+Underground Tanks$600+ to $55,000+Rainwater Tanks$200+ to $15,000+Doorway Tanks$340+ to $2,000+Leg Tanks$100+ to $20,000+Utility Tanks$70+ to $6,800+Low Profile Transport Tanks$240+ to $4,400+Emergency Tanks$400+ to $1,000+IBC Tanks$200+ to $5,000+Truck Bed Tanks$350+ to $1,000+RV Tanks$70+ to $1,000+Marine Tanks$120+ to $1,200+Stock Tanks$120+ to $350+

Choosing a Water Tank by Size

Modern water tank products are available in a wide assortment of storage volumes and size dimensions. Therefore, another option to further narrow product selection is to select a water tank based on its size capacity and the amount of water needed for its intended use. Sometimes it is also appropriate to select a water tank based on its size dimensions in width by length by height measurements. 

1. To choose a water tank by storage capacity: know volume options for the different water tank styles. 
2. To choose a water tank by the expected water need: know the application, how to calculate water usage, and whether certain time frames or seasonal changes will affect requirements or supply. 
3. To choose a water tank by size dimensions: know the measurements of available space where the tank will be placed or the size of the transport vehicle. 

Other considerations when choosing a water tank by size:

1. Bigger is Often Better: When the intended water usage amount is uncertain or largely estimated, purchasing a water tank that ends up bigger than needed is often better than having a tank that is too small.
2. Link Multiple Tanks Together: Connecting multiple water tanks together allows the total volume of an existing water tank setup to be expanded. This option is ideal when certain restrictions make linking tanks together the best solution to reach a needed water volume. For stationary tanks, such as aboveground and underground tanks, the water tanks are designed with fitting flats to allow installation of additional fittings and plumbing to connect tanks together. 
3. Property and/or Space Limitations: Specific applications, property types, and/or local regulations can affect suitable water tank sizes. Know where you plan to install the water tank and choose a product that will fit safely, securely, and with the proper foundation support.

Table of Water Tank Volumes

The following is a table of water tank volumes by water tank type, volume capacity range, and tank volumes commonly selected and used.

Water Tank TypeVolume Capacity RangeCommon Tank VolumesSmall Vertical Tanks10 Gallons – 2000 Gallons100 Gallons, 150 Gallons, 250 Gallons, 500 Gallons, 1000 GallonsLarge Vertical Tanks2100 Gallons – 20,000 Gallons2500 Gallons, 3000 Gallons, 4000 Gallons, 5000 GallonsSteel Water Tanks90 Gallons – 100,000 Gallons20,000 Gallons, 40,000 Gallons, 70,000 GallonsUnderground Tanks250 Gallons – 20,000 Gallons325 Gallon, 575 Gallons, 1500 Gallons, 2000 GallonsRainwater Tanks90 Gallons – 5050 Gallons150 Gallons, 265 Gallons, 530 Gallons, 1500 Gallons, 4050 GallonsDoorway Tanks100 Gallons – 1000 Gallons130 Gallons, 265 Gallons, 300 Gallons, 530 GallonsLeg Tanks15 Gallons – 6025 Gallons200 Gallons, 500 Gallons, 1000 Gallons, 1600 Gallons, 2500 GallonsUtility Tanks7 Gallons – 4200 Gallons50 Gallons, 100 Gallons, 200 Gallons, 300 Gallons, 500 GallonsEmergency Tanks100 Gallons – 1000 Gallons100 Gallon, 200 Gallon, 300 GallonIBC Tanks110 Gallons – 793 Gallons275 Gallon, 330 GallonTruck Bed Tanks200 Gallons – 450 Gallons200 Gallons, 305 Gallons, 400 GallonsRV Tanks3 Gallons – 260 Gallons25 Gallons, 50 Gallons, 75 Gallons, 100 GallonsMarine Tanks3 Gallons – 280 Gallons25 Gallons, 50 Gallons, 75 Gallons, 100 GallonsStock Tanks50 Gallons – 320 Gallons100 Gallons, 150 Gallons

Choosing a Water Tank by Shape

Choosing a water tank by shape is applicable when an installation location requires a particular shape so the water tank will fit optimally and securely or in transport situations where a specific water tank shape promotes portability, safety, and/or organization capability.

Available water tank shapes include:

1. Round / Circular Tanks: Most common type; examples include vertical aboveground tanks, rainwater tanks, emergency water tanks, galvanized steel tanks, and stainless steel tanks. 
2. Oval Tanks: Common to transport; examples include leg tanks and cradle tanks. 
3. Rectangle Tanks: Common to low profile tanks; examples include utility tanks and low profile transport tanks. 
4. Box Tanks: Common in transport; examples include IBC totes, utility tanks, PCO tanks, and loaf tanks. 
5. Slimline Tanks: Common in residential rainwater harvesting and emergency water storage; example includes doorway tanks. 
6. Custom Shape Tanks: Common for transport and specific uses; examples include truck bed tanks, cone shaped tanks, and underground tanks. 

Choosing a Water Tank by Color

Choosing a water tank by color is largely reserved for polyethylene water tanks. Most other water tank material types do not offer different colors. The grade of a water tank, meaning either potable or non-potable, will affect the color options of a poly water tank. When it comes to color, many poly water tanks are often white or black. This is due to requirements and specifications set forth by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the American National Safety Institute (ANSI) and the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF). Such regulatory oversight mandates what materials and manufacturing practices are acceptable. 

Most polyethylene water tanks on the market are manufactured from FDA approved materials and are ANSI / NSF 61 certified, unless listed otherwise. Poly water tanks will be clearly described as being either food grade or non food grade, potable or non potable, and or FDA, ANSI, NSF approved.

Potable water poly tank colors are often white, black, green, brown, beige, blue, sometimes red and sometimes varying shades of these colors. Most other available colors do not meet FDA, ANSI, NSF requirements and are used in non-potable water poly tank applications. Yellow is a common non-potable grade color often used in agriculture, landscaping, and groundskeeping.

Takeaway | Water Tank Buying Guide

Shopping for the right water tank to purchase can involve several considerations and is best done when all the options for available water tanks are known. When looking to buy a water tank, know the full ins-and-outs of what the water tank will be used for. Choosing a product that has been made specifically for that application is many times the best option. Also, consider the total volume of water that will be needed and other points such as tank type, storage capacity, size dimensions, and color. 

For more information on the different tank types, see our companion Guide to Poly Water Tank Types and our water tank brochure for a handy, easy way to compare water tank options. 

Should you want or require assistance in product selection or have further questions on water tanks, do not hesitate to contact our support experts today.

1. What material should the tank be made of?

The material of the water tank should be one of your first considerations, as it impacts durability, water quality, lifetime costs, and more. Common materials for water tanks include concrete, poly tanks, galvanized steel, stainless steel, and more. Concrete tanks are long-lasting but can be expensive. Plastic poly tanks are affordable but may need replacing sooner. Stainless steel offers superior durability for a higher price tag. Assess your budget, intended use, and longevity needs when deciding on a material.

2. What capacity tank do I need?

Carefully calculate what capacity tank makes sense for your intended purpose, family size, livestock needs, gardening plans, and other water uses. A tank that is too small may run out frequently or not meet your water demands. A tank too large is an unnecessary expense. Take note of periods of higher usage, such as summer months or during a vegetable garden's growing season. Allow for future expansion plans as well when deciding on a water tank's capacity.

3. How frequently will the tank need to be refilled?

Along with tank capacity, carefully consider how often you will likely need to refill the tank each year based on your water needs and habits. Will the tank be refilled by rainfall collection only or will you need to bring in supplemental water? What is your area’s average annual rainfall? How many drought periods typically occur? These are all factors that can impact optimal tank size and refill frequency.

4. What external construction considerations are needed?

External construction needs include a stable, reinforced base, level ground for installation, overhangs or secured lids to prevent contamination from above, and protection from sunlight exposure if your tank is plastic. You may need to construct a concrete, crushed stone, or compacted earth base for the tank. Also have electrical or pump lines installed if applicable. Address all of these prior to delivery of your tank.

5. How should internal tank components be configured?

Questions to consider about internal components include whether you want partitions or segments within the tank, what type of lining you need for potable water purposes, if interior ladders or lifts are included for access hatches, what cleaning access points are built in, whether baffles, weighted inlet pipes, or calming inlets should be installed to prevent interior erosion from incoming water flows, and compatibility with any existing plumbing infrastructure.

6. How will tank overflow be dealt with?

One very important consideration is planning for excess water outflow when your tank reaches capacity after heavy rains or frequent fills. Options for handling overflow include routing excess water to a secondary onsite holding pond, a rain garden, drainage areas away from structures, or even back into a graywater system for reuse around your property for non-potable water needs.

7. How will water be extracted from my tank?

Assess extraction needs before purchasing a tank. Will you require an electric pump system or simply use gravity outlets? Do you need fittings compatible with particular plumbing fixtures, appliances, outdoor spigots or irrigation systems? Are backflow prevention devices needed? Clarify all water extraction components so your tank purchase or customization provides full functionality.

8. What kind of maintenance is required?

Factor in both short and long-term maintenance needs for your tank. This includes initial tank cleaning, periodic exterior surface cleaning and inspection, treatment to prevent algae or bacteria inside the tank, checking and replacing internal filtration systems or water treatment components, integrity testing for leaks, monitoring and repair of any cracks or problem areas over time, and verifying that pumps, electrical lines and extraction systems continue functioning.

9. What safety standards should my tank conform to?

Verify that any potential water tank meets protocols such as NSF/ANSI, UL, FM or other domestic and international quality and safety standards. Approved, inspected tanks ensure healthy, potable water for your purposes as well as structural stability and longevity. Research requirements for above or below ground tank installations in your geographic location as well.

10. How qualified is the vendor or installation company?

Only work with highly experienced water tank suppliers who provide you with detailed customer service, project consultation and transparent pricing. Check reviews, credentials, certifications and proven expertise in your particular type and size of water tank installation. Verify they follow regional protocols and can correctly handle permit processes. Ensure they will properly size, customize and install your tank suited for the exact specifications of your property.

11. Can existing rainwater harvesting systems be incorporated?

If you already utilize rainwater harvesting elements like gutters, downspouts, barrels or cisterns, determine whether your new water tank can be correctly integrated to take advantage of these. Divert guttering to channel precipitation directly into your tank, for example, or connect intermediate barrel storage to gravity feed into the main tank. Utilize preexisting rain catchment investments to offset water tank refill requirements where possible.

12. What are all included costs, options and long-term expenses?

The purchasing process should clarify total costs for the water tank itself plus required components like pumps, wiring, attachments and installation expenses. However, also project long-term costs for maintenance, cleaning treatments, filter or treatment system replacements, potential repairs, inspections and periodic pumping out of accumulated sediment if your tank lacks a bottom drain. Estimate total lifetime costs, not just initial purchase and setup fees, when determining your budget.

Choosing the ideal water tank entails careful consideration of all key factors - the 12 outlined in detail here are crucial questions to investigate before making this major investment. Addressing aspects from construction, capacity and maintenance to safety standards, vendor qualifications and expenses will ensure your tank purchase fulfills all intended purposes for years to come. With research and planning guided by these questions, you can have peace of mind knowing your tailored water tank system reliably meets your family's or property's specific water needs into the future.

When shopping for the right water tank, knowing what options are available can make the process easier and faster and also provide more certainty that you are selecting the best water tank for the job. When planning, know the full details of the application the water tank will be used for and how it relates to the needed water volume, water tank type, and specifications. When researching, use this guide to review the different water tanks, their options, and how to choose the best water tank to buy based on application or product specs.

Our buying guide provides a comprehensive overview of water tank options and the top points to help select the right tank when considering and comparing by material, application, and type.

Guide Contents

Water Tank Definition

A water tank is any container designed and dedicated to the successful, secure storage and handling of water. Water can be potable water (drinking water) for fresh water needs such as for human consumption, livestock, production of food and beverages, or it can be non-potable water such as for industry, construction, and reclaimed water uses. Any container that can hold water for use on-demand can be considered a water tank. Water tanks are made from either plastic, metal, or earthen materials such as concrete. 

In today’s product market, a water tank is most often a container that has been precisely engineered and manufactured from select materials according to various professional guidelines, standards and/or certifications. 

In the United States, these standards and certifications include the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and/or the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) when applicable.

For example, a potable grade plastic tank must be made from FDA approved food grade material and be certified to ANSI and NSF 61 standards. Water tanks are available in two grade qualities: potable and non-potable. Potable water certified products can be used for drinking water while non potable products cannot.

Common Water Tank Uses

Water tanks are widely used across many modern applications. The different water tank types are frequently used in 6 main categories. There is some overlap in uses, such as for rainwater harvesting, irrigation, and fire suppression, which are common applications in each category. Common uses for water tanks include:

1. Agriculture | Farms, Ranches, Orchards, Vineyards, Crops, Irrigation and Irrigation Injection Systems, Greenhouse Operations, Livestock, Animal Care and Processing, Feedstock Preparation, Mixing and Batching of Agricultural Chemicals, Heating and Cooling Systems, Cleaning 
2. Commercial | Construction, Mining, Landscaping, Groundskeeping, Pest Control, Cleaning, Pressure Washing 
3. Government and Municipalities | Water Treatment, Reserve Water, Fire Fighting and Suppression Systems, Infrastructure Maintenance
4. Residential, Homeowners and Rural | Rainwater Harvesting, Well Water Reservoir, Groundwater Treatment, Homesteading, Off Grid Living, Water Hauling, Irrigation, Emergency Water Reserves
5. Food and Beverage | Wineries and Breweries, Handling and Storage of Process Water, Materials, Ingredients, and Products
6. Industrial | Product Manufacturing, Production Line Management, Fabrication, Wastewater Collection and Treatment

Water Tank Material Types

Water tanks come in many shapes, sizes and are made from different materials. There are three main material types frequently used for modern water tank products with each further divided into subcategories. Common water tank material types are plastic, metal, and earthen. Plastic water tanks are storage containers made from polyethylene, polypropylene, or fiberglass. Metal water tanks are made from galvanized steel or stainless steel. Earthen water tanks usually refer to concrete tanks, which will not be covered here.

Metal Tanks

Galvanized Steel Tanks

Galvanized steel water tanks are made from galvanized-coated, high-quality U.S. steel that makes them strong and highly resistant to weather, effects of sunlight UV exposure, physical impacts, and environmental corrosion. The primary benefits of these tanks are large water volume storage capacity, longevity, and durability. Steel water tanks are rigorously tested and certified for use in large volume, potable and non potable water storage. Steel water tanks are known for their long life, lasting service and reliability in holding and providing water. 

Galvanized steel water tanks are frequently used for businesses including brewery and winery operations, in agriculture for farms and livestock, as well as by educational facilities, government buildings and healthcare institutions often for rainwater harvesting, irrigation, fire suppression systems, fire response, and emergency water reserves. Additional uses include on mining sites for dust control, cleaning, and more, in aquaculture, and in stormwater management as required to meet BMP or LID requirements.

The purchase price of a steel water tank will be more than a plastic water tank but less than stainless steel on a per-volume comparison. Large volume, 20,000+ gallon galvanized steel water tanks typically require piece-by-piece assembly and professional installation, and can therefore be installed in remote or difficult to access areas. This also makes steel tanks capable of relocation if needed. 

Steel tanks are available in many size capacities and style options.

Galvanized Steel Tank Overview:

• Size: 90 Gallons – 100,000+ Gallons
• Large Volume Range
• Long Term Service and Reliability
• Long Lifespan: Potential 20-30+ Years
• Trusted Durability of U.S. Steel
• Zinc-Plated Galvanized Steel
• High Capacity Tanks Intended for Potable Water Use ANSI/NSF 61 Certified Liner
• Many Personalization and Customization Options
• Inquire About Available Style Options

Galvanized Steel Water Tanks

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Stainless Steel Tanks

Stainless steel water tanks are considered the top-of-the-line option for material quality, cleanability, hygienic characteristics, and long-term water storage. When it comes to longevity, stainless steel water tanks are hard to beat, potentially providing up to 4 to 6 times longer service life. However, they are often easy to beat in pricing as stainless steel water tanks are typically the most expensive water tank choice. 

The increased cost of stainless steel tanks is not without its reasons and benefits in terms of using and keeping the water tank. Stainless steel water tanks are the best option among available water tanks in lifespan, durability, purity, and cleanliness. A downside to stainless steel water tanks is – depending on the size – they can be heavy and difficult to relocate should the need arise. This contrasts with polyethylene plastic water tanks that are significantly lightweight by comparison. 

Stainless steel water tanks are high quality choices for water handling, well water systems, stormwater management, and rainwater harvesting and are most often used in residential and commercial applications.

Stainless Steel Tank Overview:

• Size: 90 Gallons – 4,000+ Gallons
• Top in Lifespan: Potential 50+ Years
• Top in Cleanliness Standards 
• Corrosion Resistance and Durability of Stainless Steel
• Naturally Potable Grade Quality
• ANSI/NSF 61 Synthetic Fittings / Components 

Stainless Steel Water Tanks

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Plastic Tanks

Polyethylene Tanks

Polyethylene is a synthetic plastic material used to make a wide range of modern products, including water storage tanks. High density polyethylene, often just “poly” for short, is the plastic type most used in the manufacture of storage tanks. Modern poly tanks are safe, reliable, durable, and long lasting for both potable and non potable water. They are the most used water tank type by frequency across the full range of applications and available product options. The polyethylene tank type is also widely used in the storage and handling of chemicals and solutions as a chemical storage tank, effectively demonstrating the tank’s strength. 

Polyethylene water tanks are lightweight, easy to transport, and install compared to metal water tanks. Poly tanks are engineered to be structurally sound and long lasting for water storage and use in both indoor and outdoor applications. Most modern polyethylene water tanks are one piece, rotational mold manufactured to remove seams, weak spots, and include ultraviolet (UV) inhibiting compounds to stabilize the plastic against degradation and damage from sunlight.

Poly water tanks are available in an extensive range of model options, volume capacities, shapes, styles, and size dimensions.

Polyethylene Tank Overview:

• Size: 10 Gallons – 20,000 Gallons
• Lightweight and Durable
• Rust Proof, Weather Resistant
• UV Stabilized
• Versatile
• Many Options To Match Application Needs
• Many Tank Types: Vertical, Underground, Cone Bottom, Potable, Utility, IBC, etc.

Polyethylene Water Tanks

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Polypropylene Tanks

Polypropylene is a less common material choice for bulk water storage, such as in excess of 10,000 gallons. Water tanks made from polypropylene plastic are often smaller in volume with some availability up to 6,800 gallons. Polypropylene water tanks are commonly open top style tanks, which are often used as day tanks, batch tanks, stock tanks, or as mixing tanks for blending water with various materials or ingredients and are therefore by definition not exclusively water tanks. 

Polypropylene water tanks have a higher temperature tolerance range versus polyethylene water tanks and are rated acceptable up to 210°F, compared to 100-120°F for poly tanks. This makes polypropylene good for applications that require heated or near-boiling water temperatures.

Polypropylene Tank Overview:

• Size: 1 gallons – 6800 gallons
• Lightweight, Reusable
• High Temperature Tolerance
• Often Open-Top Tank Style
• Available in Square and Cylindrical Models

Polypropylene Tanks

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Fiberglass Tanks

Fiberglass water tanks are also known as fiberglass reinforced plastic or FRP tanks. Fiberglass water tanks are made from a base polymer material, often polyethylene, that is reinforced with an additional material such as glass. FRP tanks are long lasting, reliable, durable tanks highly resistant to corrosion, weather, and UV damage. 

A fiberglass water tank often has a higher purchase cost compared to polyethylene or polypropylene tanks but make up for the increased cost with increased service life, dependability, and storage capacity. FRP water tanks are often custom fabricated and shipped or they are shipped in sections for installation on-site, and therefore require a quote and working with a manufacturer or supplier. 

Fiberglass tanks are suited for above ground or underground installation. Capacity can range up to 50,000 gallons or more. FRP tanks are frequently used in agriculture, commercial and municipal applications for bulk water provision, rainwater harvesting, food production applications, and fire suppression.

Fiberglass Tank Overview:

• Size: Often Custom Fabricated to Desired Capacity
• Long-Term Lifespan, Service, and Reliability
• High Corrosion and Weather Resistance

Fiberglass Tanks

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What Water Tank is Best

All modern water tanks and product types are successful and satisfactory for the task of securely storing water. The differences between tank material and design, such as volume, shape and color, are intended to better serve different applications to provide the best outcome in terms of tank lifespan and suitability for a certain use over another.

The question will always be whether one tank material or type is best or better than another. The truest answer to this question is that it will depend. The best water tank will depend on what it will be used for, where it will be used, for how long, and the amount of financial investment that matches a budget. The water tank that is best for one application or scenario may not be what is best for another.

Top Points in Water Tank Selection

The following is a comparison and ranking of water tanks by cost, durability, versatility, portability and capacity.

• Cost: Polyethylene water tanks are best in terms of cost effectiveness, followed by polypropylene. Stainless steel water tanks often have the highest costs. Galvanized steel and fiberglass water tanks range in the middle on a by-material, per-volume basis and often have the largest total cost due to having the greatest volume. 
• Durability: Stainless steel tanks are often considered best in overall strength, service resistance, and longevity, followed by galvanized metal tanks, fiberglass, then plastic water tanks.
• Versatility: Polyethylene water tanks rank highest in versatility due to the range of molding options and applications they have been designed for. Metal water tanks are often stationary and have fewer overall use options.
• Portability: Plastic water tanks are best for portability and transport applications due to being lightweight and available in many styles that have been intentionally engineered for mobile uses.
• Capacity: Galvanized steel water tanks rank best in total water volume range, offering the greatest storage capacities, followed by fiberglass, then polyethylene water tanks and last by polypropylene and stainless steel.

Choosing a Plastic Water Tank by Application

There are many plastic water tank types, and many are categorized for use in particular applications, while other types are well suited for several uses. To choose the best water tank for a job, we recommend understanding both the ins-and-outs of the application along with the types of water tank available. 

Below are the different water tank types reviewed, ranked, and recommended by the ones that are best for above ground, underground, agriculture, drinking water, emergency water reserves, food truck and concession, fire control and response, mixing, transport, and rainwater harvesting applications.

Above Ground

Above ground water tanks are built for almost any ground level scenario or application that needs to collect, store, distribute potable or non-potable water. Above ground water tanks are engineered for lasting durability and bulk water storage in a comparatively compact, space saving design. They are available in a wide volume selection up to 20,000 gallons. 

An above ground tank is a specific category of plastic water tank intended for stationary installation. They are not safety-rated for transport when bearing a water load. 

These tank types are used in an extensive range of applications. Industry examples include agriculture, commercial, industrial, food processing, government and municipal. They are frequently used in residential applications for rainwater harvesting, emergency water reserves, well water, and water storage.

Specs

Above ground water tanks are available in green, black, brown, white, sometimes red, and sometimes blue. They are traditionally cylindrical in shape and most often taller than they are wide. Volume capacity ranges from 10 gallons up to 20,000 gallons. Price can range from $80+ to $35,000+.

Above Ground Tanks

Underground

Underground water tanks are engineered with a compact, low profile design that makes excavation and burial easier, and with a structural durability to withstand the weight and pressure of being buried. An underground water tank is also sometimes known as a cistern. Common uses for underground water tanks include:

1. Groundwater / Well Water Storage
2. Potable Water Reserve and Supply
3. Rainwater Harvesting Reservoir
4. Emergency Reserve Supply
5. Stormwater Management

Underground water tanks differ from septic tanks in that they are fabricated from FDA approved food grade material and are ANSI/NSF 61 approved for drinking water applications. Using an underground water tank provides the following benefits:

• Protection from the elements, such as sun damage, warming, and freezing
• Protection from environmental and workplace impacts
• Protection from algae growth
• Protection from animal contamination or pest infestation risk
• Stable water temperature

Specs

Underground water tanks are available in spherical, low profile, and bruiser style designs. Tank risers for aboveground manway access are available and recommended. Underground water tanks and cisterns are available in volume capacity from 250 gallons to 20,000 gallons. Price can range from $500+ to $50,000+.

Underground Water Tanks

Agriculture, Irrigation, Livestock

The use of water tanks in agriculture applications spans a wide range of work cases and commonly used water tank types. Top recommended water tanks for agriculture applications include leg tanks, vertical tanks, underground cisterns, cone bottom tanks, IBC tote tanks, rainwater harvesting tanks, and stock tanks.

Leg Tanks 

In horizontal, elliptical, and drainable style options, leg tanks are a popular choice for mobile water needs on farms and livestock ranches. Available in both potable and non-potable agriculture grade, leg tanks make an excellent choice for transporting water to where it’s needed such as delivery to livestock, irrigation tanks, and agriculture chemical mixing applications as nurse tanks. Volume capacity for leg tanks ranges from 15 gallons to 6,000 gallons. Price can range from $100+ to $20,000+. 

For more what is a digester in wastewater treatmentinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

Farm Leg Tanks

Vertical Tanks

Vertical, aboveground style water tanks are cylindrical shaped, stationary water tanks. They are frequently used to provide water for chemical mixing and preparation operations, rainwater harvesting, irrigation, drought reserves, and fire emergency response. Volume capacity for vertical water tanks ranges from 10 gallons to 20,000 gallons. Price can range from $100+ to $35,000+.

Farm Vertical Tanks

Underground Cisterns

Underground cisterns are the only water tanks engineered, rated, and approved for complete burial. Other water tank models are not designed to withstand the load stress of being buried. Underground water tanks are used in agriculture rainwater harvesting, well water storage, water treatment, and emergency water supply applications. Volume capacity for underground cisterns ranges from 250 gallons to 20,000 gallons. Price can range from $600+ to $50,000+. 

Farm Cisterns

Cone Bottom Tanks

Cone bottom tanks have a sloped bottom and central drain that promotes full discharge. They require a tank stand to support the container and allow access to the drain valve for using the tank’s contents. Cone bottom tanks are used in agriculture when complete drainage is needed or beneficial and are often used in mixing applications. Volume capacity for cone bottom tanks ranges from 7 gallons to 13,000 gallons. Price can range from $100+ to $45,000+. 

Farm Conical Tanks

IBC Tote Tanks

IBC tote tanks are versatile, high-mobility, easy-to-handle containers often selected as an alternative to other portable water tank options due to their space saving design, low cost, and ability for forklift handling. IBC totes are made in a range of models with the 275 gallon and 330 gallon caged IBC tote most often used in water applications. Caged IBC tote options available include new, rebottled, and reconditioned in volumes from 135 gallons to 330 gallons and price ranging from $190+ to $400+. 

Farm IBC Totes

Rainwater Harvesting Tanks

Rainwater harvesting tanks are purpose-built for collecting and providing rainwater for water-requiring activities. On a farm, livestock ranch, or other agriculture operation, the practice of rainwater harvesting can serve as an alternative water source for the many ag applications that rely on water. Poly rain containers will feature a tank screen accessory included, a pre-plumbed overflow, and one or two bulkhead fittings.

Farm Rainwater Tanks

Volume capacity for metal and poly rainwater collection tanks range from 90 gallons to 5,000 gallons. Price can range from $200 to $15,000+. Large volume galvanized steel rainwater tanks can hold 20,000 to 100,000 gallons with pricing starting at $19,000 and up.

Stock Tanks

Stock tanks are USDA approved, open top containers used to hold water for livestock to drink from. Use stock tanks to provide a watering solution for farm animals when natural water sources are not available. They are often used as water troughs and feeding troughs for cattle, horses, pigs, and goats. Other uses include fish breeding for koi and tilapia as well as in-ground, decorative ponds. Volume capacity for stock tanks range from 50 gallons to 320 gallons. Price can range from $120+ to $350+. 

Farm Stock Tanks

Vineyards, Wineries, and Breweries

Water tanks are used in vineyards, wineries, and breweries not necessarily just for holding and providing water. Modern storage tank options are also used in raw material handling of grapes, hops, barley and yeast, in waste collection, as well as pre-production and post-production applications. Premium tank options for this industry include poly tanks, galvanized steel tanks, stainless steel tanks, and IBC totes.

Poly Wine Tanks

Polyethylene wine tanks include many product options including cone bottom tanks, chemical tanks, water tanks, sprayer tanks, open top tanks, and portable tanks. Polyethylene tanks provide the benefits of low cost, low movement weight, and scalability. 

Poly Wine Tanks

Steel Wine Tanks

Steel wine tanks are 20,000+ gallon, ANSI/NSF 61 certified containers ideal for winemaking and distillery applications when superior storage capacity is needed. Learn more about steel tank products here.

Steel Wine Tanks

Wine IBC Tote Tanks

The Vino ProTankTM is an IBC tote specifically engineered for winemaking applications. Available in two thicknesses with different oxygen permeation rates ideal for either red wines, white wines, ciders, or spirits. Wine IBC totes are new products built exclusively for winemaking, fermentation, and aging, learn more here and see the products here.

Wine IBC Totes

Drinking Water | Potable Water

Any water tank that carries ANSI, NSF, and FDA certifications, and/or AWWA requirements (as applicable) is approved for use with drinking water systems and potable water applications. The type of water tank that is best for a potable water application will depend on the specific requirements and needs of the job, location or individual interests. Examples of this include total water volume required, expected service life, site for tank installation, work needs such as mobility, and aesthetics, meaning visual appeal for matching of property, backdrops, or increasing property value.

Plastic Water Tanks

Plastic potable water tanks have the greatest selection of shapes, styles, colors and sizes. They are the correct choice when portability is needed as they are made in many styles optimized for transport with examples including leg tanks, IBC totes, truck bed tanks, and flat bottom utility tanks.  

Potable Water Poly Tanks

Plastic tanks provide options for underground storage and aboveground storage with appreciable service life and certified quality standards. The tanks have lower purchase costs, are lightweight, easier to install and maintain, and with various options to best match an individual use or property needs.

Steel Water Tanks 

Galvanized steel water tanks are an ideal choice for large volume potable water applications. They are limited to stationary installations but offer a long term solution as a potable water source. Steel water tanks are available with different options, roofing designs, and sometimes colors to match a property and/or environment style. Water storage capacity ranges from 20,000 gallons to 100,000+ gallons depending on the manufacturer.

Large Potable Steel Tanks

Smaller volume steel water tanks are also available with a storage capacity range from 90 gallons to 3,750 gallons ideal for home-based or smaller commercial, potable water applications.

Small Potable Steel Tanks

Stainless Steel Water Tanks

Stainless steel water tanks are a top choice for tank and water quality standards with a long service life but have the highest cost for largest value. Various design styles are available to match individual installation, property, or interests. Water volume storage capacity ranges from 90 gallons to 3,750 gallons depending on the manufacturer.

Potable SS Water Tanks

Emergency Water | Reserve Water | Disaster Preparation

In this application, the water tank is used to keep a sizable volume of drinking water on hand for emergency reserves and survival preparedness in the event of a disaster that impacts the quality or availability of the traditional water supply. Emergency water tanks are poly tank types built exclusively for this use and are available in a select volume range that makes them easier to install and keep on a personal property such as within garages, sheds, and basements. An emergency water tank features an additional spigot tap valve located at height above the tank base to allow easier access to the tank’s water reserves in times of use. 

Specs

Emergency water tanks are freshwater blue in color to make them easier to see and indicate the tank as a drinking water source. Volume capacity for emergency water tanks ranges in size from 100 gallons up to 500 gallons. Price can range from $400+ to $1,100+.

Emergency Tanks

Food Truck and Concession

Water tanks for food trucks and concession stands are food grade tanks often used to hold water for preparing consumable goods in mobile and/or remote applications. These tank types are used to prepare goods for sale such as food, beverages, dessert, treats and the like. Food truck and concession tanks must be food grade approved and potable water certified. They are often polyethylene in material but stainless steel is sometimes used. 

The best tank types for food truck and concession stand applications are freestanding, securable, and with a low profile to improve transport ease and stability. Popular water tank types for this application include the utility tank, loaf tank, and low profile water tank types.

Specs

Food truck and concession water tanks are often boxlike in shape and feature tie-down grooves to secure the tank during movement. Tanks can range in capacity from 7 gallons up to 1,050 gallons. Price can range from $70+ to $2,200+.

Food Truck Tanks

Fire Control and Response

Fire control and response water tanks are installed and used in rural and remote locations where water resources, municipal supply, and/or dedicated infrastructure may be limited or nonexistent. They are sometimes used as a secondary fire control system when there is a concern that the primary system may fail. Water tanks for fire control and response are bulk storage tanks for on-site fire protection and portable water tanks used in mobile applications. 

Fire protection tanks are above ground and underground poly tanks, steel water tanks, and fiberglass water tanks. These water tank types are frequently used in sprinkler systems or worksite protection in the event of a fire emergency. Portable water tanks for fire response are horizontal or elliptical leg tanks and utility tanks used with a pump and spray hose delivery system. These water tank types are designed to fit and be secured in truck beds or on pull behind trailers. 

Mixing (Open Top Tanks)

Open top water tanks are not intended to serve as long-term water holding tanks. This is due to their main uses as batch tanks, day tanks, and as mixing tanks to blend water with an ingredient or material to produce a solution for use, usually in industrial fabrication, manufacturing, food/beverage production, and agriculture applications. Depending on the use, mixing tanks may or may not have to be food grade quality water tanks. 

Specs

Open top tanks are manufactured from either polypropylene or polyethylene and available styles include cone bottom, round, and rectangular. Mixing tanks can range in capacity from 1 gallon up to 6800 gallons. Price can range from $20+ up to $20,000+.

Open Top Tanks

Portable, Transport, and Mobility

The water tank category known as portable water tanks are intentionally designed and engineered to be both easier and safer to transport and relocate based on the job or need. Portable water tanks include a broad range of tank types and size options. Most portable water tanks are manufactured from polyethylene plastic. Portable water tank volume capacity ranges from 7 gallons up to 6,000+ gallons with pricing available from $35+ to $19,000+.

There are many portable water tank models with the most common selected and trusted for use being leg tanks, low profile transport tanks, utility tanks, and intermediate bulk containers (IBCs).

Leg Tanks

Leg tanks are a popular portable water tank type often used in rural homes, agriculture, construction, roadwork, and municipal applications. Leg tanks are engineered with structural support legs that work as baffles. The baffles limit water sloshing and provide greater stability and weight distribution during transport. 

Leg tanks come in horizontal, elliptical, and drainable styles. Horizontal leg tanks are circular in shape. Elliptical leg tanks are oval in shape. Drainable leg tanks feature a built-in sump that promotes liquid drainage. Leg tanks are ideal for transport in pickup truck beds, flat beds, trailers, or other company trucks.

Poly leg tanks range in size from 15 gallons up to 6,000 gallons with pricing from $100+ up to $20,000+. Leg tanks often require the additional purchase of steel support bands to secure and/or aid in tank stability during transport. 

Leg Transport Tanks

Low Profile Transport Tanks

Low profile transport tanks have a reduced vertical height and lower center of gravity for easier, more secure transport. Their size and shape allow the tanks to fit nicely in the cargo bed or trailer of many transport vehicles. The low height profile also makes the tank good for use in height restricted areas such as beneath decks, houses, job shack trailers, etc.

Low profile water tanks can range in size from 50 gallons up to 2,400 gallons with pricing from $240+ to $4,400+. 

Low Profile Transport Tanks

Utility Tanks

Utility tanks are flat bottom, freestanding, self-supporting water tanks with a boxlike shape. They are often used in residential, commercial, agriculture, industrial applications, and for pressure washing, auto detailing, and general water hauling. The utility tank style water tank is available in many sizes for a secure fit where they are needed as well as in tight areas and small spaces.

Utility water tanks are available in black, white, and yellow colors. Most have gallon indicators on the tank exterior. Black and white are FDA approved for potable water. Yellow tanks are for non-potable water applications often involving chemicals such as in landscape maintenance and pesticides. White and yellow tanks are translucent that makes monitoring water levels easy.

Flat bottom utility tanks are available in sizes ranging from 7 gallons up to 4,200 gallons with pricing from $70+ to $6,800+. 

Utility Transport Tanks

Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBC Totes)

The intermediate bulk container (IBC, IBC tote, and IBC tank) is a leading option among portable water tanks. IBCs are available in different designs and materials to suit different applications with IBCs manufactured from polyethylene, carbon steel and stainless steel available. 

IBCs are engineered for improved ease of mobility and maneuverability. They are sized around standard shipping pallets, have integrated pallet bases for forklifts and pallet jacks, and are box-like in shape – together making an IBC container easy to move, organize, stack, integrate, and transport.

Intermediate bulk containers are available in sizes ranging from 110 gallons up to 550 gallons. Price can range from $200+ to $4,900+. Prices for the most commonly used 275 gallon and 330 gallon caged IBC tote ranges from $200+ to $400+.

IBC Tote Transport Tanks

Rainwater Harvesting

Polyethylene, galvanized steel, and stainless steel water tanks are all acceptable choices frequently used in rainwater harvesting practice. Dedicated rainwater harvesting tanks are available in each of the different material options.

Polyethylene Rainwater Harvesting Tanks

Polyethylene rainwater tanks are a common, low cost, good value choice for rainwater harvesting. They are lightweight, easy to install, and easier than metal tanks to relocate or modify. Darker colored poly tanks are best as they resist algae growth better than light colored tanks. 

Polyethylene rainwater tanks are available in vertical, slimline (also known as doorway) and underground water tank styles. 

• Vertical rainwater collection tanks are a standard, all-around good choice for rainwater applications available in volumes from 100 gallons up to 5,050 gallons. 
• Slimline rain tanks are rectangular, slim bodied, low height water tanks better suited for installation within garages, sheds, along walls, walkways, and structures available in volume from 100 gallons up to 530 gallons. 
• Underground rain tanks eliminate concerns of algae growth, freezing temperatures, sunlight exposure and provide stable temperatures for the stored water available in volume from 250 gallons up to 20,000 gallons.

Galvanized Steel Rainwater Tanks

Galvanized steel rainwater tanks provide an excellent long term, high volume choice for rainwater harvesting and use systems. The make of a galvanized steel tank affords a lasting service life but, compared to poly rain tanks, cost more and large volume models are more time-intensive to install, relocate, and maintain, often requiring professional installation. 

The material and design of galvanized steel water tanks provides reliable resistance against corrosion, weathering and algae growth. Large volume galvanized steel rainwater tanks have various design and customization options available to either change the look or functionality of the product. Small volume steel rain tank capacity ranges from 90 gallons to 3,750 gallons. Large volume steel rain tank capacity ranges from 20,000 gallons to 100,000 gallons.

Stainless Steel Rainwater Tanks

Stainless steel rainwater tanks provide the best for long term use in rainwater harvesting but have the highest cost investment per gallon storage capacity. They are the top option for lasting durability and reliability. For residential use, the max volume capacity range is limited as large volume products are often cost prohibitive and therefore typically reserved for agriculture, commercial, or industrial settings. 

Similar to galvanized steel, stainless steel water tanks are available in various designs and features intended to meet a customer’s specific wants or needs for use. Stainless steel rainwater tank volume capacity ranges from 90 gallons to 3,750 gallons.

Choosing a Water Tank by Price

Price is an important consideration in water tank selection. Whether the buyer is a consumer, business, farm, non-profit, government or municipality, they all operate on a budget and have a set limit on what they are willing to spend. Knowing how much the different water tank types can cost will help narrow down the wide product selection and streamline the process of finding the right water tank for the job.

Table of Water Tank Prices

See the following table of water tank prices. Note the prices are provided as a general range for reference to aid in water tank selection and are subject to change based on market prices, material costs, supply chain fluctuations.

Water Tank TypePotential Price RangeVertical Water Tanks$100+ to $35,000+Cone Bottom Tanks$100+ to $45,000+Steel Water Tanks$700+ to $65,000+Underground Tanks$600+ to $55,000+Rainwater Tanks$200+ to $15,000+Doorway Tanks$340+ to $2,000+Leg Tanks$100+ to $20,000+Utility Tanks$70+ to $6,800+Low Profile Transport Tanks$240+ to $4,400+Emergency Tanks$400+ to $1,000+IBC Tanks$200+ to $5,000+Truck Bed Tanks$350+ to $1,000+RV Tanks$70+ to $1,000+Marine Tanks$120+ to $1,200+Stock Tanks$120+ to $350+

Choosing a Water Tank by Size

Modern water tank products are available in a wide assortment of storage volumes and size dimensions. Therefore, another option to further narrow product selection is to select a water tank based on its size capacity and the amount of water needed for its intended use. Sometimes it is also appropriate to select a water tank based on its size dimensions in width by length by height measurements. 

1. To choose a water tank by storage capacity: know volume options for the different water tank styles. 
2. To choose a water tank by the expected water need: know the application, how to calculate water usage, and whether certain time frames or seasonal changes will affect requirements or supply. 
3. To choose a water tank by size dimensions: know the measurements of available space where the tank will be placed or the size of the transport vehicle. 

Other considerations when choosing a water tank by size:

1. Bigger is Often Better: When the intended water usage amount is uncertain or largely estimated, purchasing a water tank that ends up bigger than needed is often better than having a tank that is too small.
2. Link Multiple Tanks Together: Connecting multiple water tanks together allows the total volume of an existing water tank setup to be expanded. This option is ideal when certain restrictions make linking tanks together the best solution to reach a needed water volume. For stationary tanks, such as aboveground and underground tanks, the water tanks are designed with fitting flats to allow installation of additional fittings and plumbing to connect tanks together. 
3. Property and/or Space Limitations: Specific applications, property types, and/or local regulations can affect suitable water tank sizes. Know where you plan to install the water tank and choose a product that will fit safely, securely, and with the proper foundation support.

Table of Water Tank Volumes

The following is a table of water tank volumes by water tank type, volume capacity range, and tank volumes commonly selected and used.

Water Tank TypeVolume Capacity RangeCommon Tank VolumesSmall Vertical Tanks10 Gallons – 2000 Gallons100 Gallons, 150 Gallons, 250 Gallons, 500 Gallons, 1000 GallonsLarge Vertical Tanks2100 Gallons – 20,000 Gallons2500 Gallons, 3000 Gallons, 4000 Gallons, 5000 GallonsSteel Water Tanks90 Gallons – 100,000 Gallons20,000 Gallons, 40,000 Gallons, 70,000 GallonsUnderground Tanks250 Gallons – 20,000 Gallons325 Gallon, 575 Gallons, 1500 Gallons, 2000 GallonsRainwater Tanks90 Gallons – 5050 Gallons150 Gallons, 265 Gallons, 530 Gallons, 1500 Gallons, 4050 GallonsDoorway Tanks100 Gallons – 1000 Gallons130 Gallons, 265 Gallons, 300 Gallons, 530 GallonsLeg Tanks15 Gallons – 6025 Gallons200 Gallons, 500 Gallons, 1000 Gallons, 1600 Gallons, 2500 GallonsUtility Tanks7 Gallons – 4200 Gallons50 Gallons, 100 Gallons, 200 Gallons, 300 Gallons, 500 GallonsEmergency Tanks100 Gallons – 1000 Gallons100 Gallon, 200 Gallon, 300 GallonIBC Tanks110 Gallons – 793 Gallons275 Gallon, 330 GallonTruck Bed Tanks200 Gallons – 450 Gallons200 Gallons, 305 Gallons, 400 GallonsRV Tanks3 Gallons – 260 Gallons25 Gallons, 50 Gallons, 75 Gallons, 100 GallonsMarine Tanks3 Gallons – 280 Gallons25 Gallons, 50 Gallons, 75 Gallons, 100 GallonsStock Tanks50 Gallons – 320 Gallons100 Gallons, 150 Gallons

Choosing a Water Tank by Shape

Choosing a water tank by shape is applicable when an installation location requires a particular shape so the water tank will fit optimally and securely or in transport situations where a specific water tank shape promotes portability, safety, and/or organization capability.

Available water tank shapes include:

1. Round / Circular Tanks: Most common type; examples include vertical aboveground tanks, rainwater tanks, emergency water tanks, galvanized steel tanks, and stainless steel tanks. 
2. Oval Tanks: Common to transport; examples include leg tanks and cradle tanks. 
3. Rectangle Tanks: Common to low profile tanks; examples include utility tanks and low profile transport tanks. 
4. Box Tanks: Common in transport; examples include IBC totes, utility tanks, PCO tanks, and loaf tanks. 
5. Slimline Tanks: Common in residential rainwater harvesting and emergency water storage; example includes doorway tanks. 
6. Custom Shape Tanks: Common for transport and specific uses; examples include truck bed tanks, cone shaped tanks, and underground tanks. 

Choosing a Water Tank by Color

Choosing a water tank by color is largely reserved for polyethylene water tanks. Most other water tank material types do not offer different colors. The grade of a water tank, meaning either potable or non-potable, will affect the color options of a poly water tank. When it comes to color, many poly water tanks are often white or black. This is due to requirements and specifications set forth by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the American National Safety Institute (ANSI) and the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF). Such regulatory oversight mandates what materials and manufacturing practices are acceptable. 

Most polyethylene water tanks on the market are manufactured from FDA approved materials and are ANSI / NSF 61 certified, unless listed otherwise. Poly water tanks will be clearly described as being either food grade or non food grade, potable or non potable, and or FDA, ANSI, NSF approved.

Potable water poly tank colors are often white, black, green, brown, beige, blue, sometimes red and sometimes varying shades of these colors. Most other available colors do not meet FDA, ANSI, NSF requirements and are used in non-potable water poly tank applications. Yellow is a common non-potable grade color often used in agriculture, landscaping, and groundskeeping.

Takeaway | Water Tank Buying Guide

Shopping for the right water tank to purchase can involve several considerations and is best done when all the options for available water tanks are known. When looking to buy a water tank, know the full ins-and-outs of what the water tank will be used for. Choosing a product that has been made specifically for that application is many times the best option. Also, consider the total volume of water that will be needed and other points such as tank type, storage capacity, size dimensions, and color. 

For more information on the different tank types, see our companion Guide to Poly Water Tank Types and our water tank brochure for a handy, easy way to compare water tank options. 

Should you want or require assistance in product selection or have further questions on water tanks, do not hesitate to contact our support experts today.

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