Consumers Marketplace Business Consumers Marketplace Business tp tp p et tp et et e e e e e k k ke ke ke ke et et etp etp C tpl on tpla su plac m lace er ace ace s Office of Fair Trading Fair Trading Facts Installing a rainwater tank 1 December 006 Installing a rainwater tank Queensland is experiencing one of the worst droughts on record. To help people save precious water, the Queensland Government has initiated the Home WaterWise Rebate Scheme, which encourages people to save water by offering rebates on water efficient products and rainwater tanks. Using water from rainwater tanks helps you save on your water bill. Statistics show that prior to water restrictions Queenslanders used up to 50% of domestic town water supply for general outdoor use. 19% of our water is used in the bathroom, 12% flushing our toilets, 10% washing our clothes and 9% in the kitchen. Surprisingly we only consume or drink approximately % of our water. What can I use the rainwater for? Rainwater stored in your tank can be used for a number of purposes. It gives you your own water supply which can be used for: watering the garden; topping up the pool; washing the car and other general outdoor use; flushing the toilet; and running the washing machine (cold water taps only). What do I need to consider before purchasing a rainwater tank? When choosing the right rainwater solution for your particular needs, consider factors such as: what you intend to use the water for; the type of tank you need; the size of tank you need; the location of the tank on your property; access to the site; aesthetics to match your décor or taste; site preparation; water distribution – pump or gravity fed; and roof design, surface area and the number of tanks you will need. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • What type of rainwater tank do I need? There are several tanks for you to choose from, such as: metal/steel/galvanised (colourbond); fibre glass; concrete; poly/plastic (polyethylene); and bladder (heavy duty flexible plastic). The following information about the advantages and disadvantages of the range of available water tanks has been provided by WaterWise and the Department of Primary Industries and is intended as a guide only: Metal/steel/galvanised tanks The most common type of tanks is the galvanised variety, which is available in rust-resistant linings, such as Zincalume or Aquaplate. It is the most inexpensive but has a limited life span. To reduce corrosion in these tanks, a dispenser of crystals of metaphosphates is sometimes used prior to initial filling. New galvanised tanks are now available with food-grade polymer lining to help prevent corrosion. When cleaning older tanks it is important not to disturb the films which builds up in the inside walls of the tank, as this helps protect against corrosion. Fibre glass Tanks Fibre glass tanks, although more expensive, are longer lasting because they resist corrosion and are not generally affected by chemicals or moisture. Fibre glass tanks allow more light entry than other types of tanks, which encourages algal growth. To prevent this, tanks should be sealed with a black covering inside or painted on the outside. Some tanks are manufactured with sufficient pigment to prevent this problem occurring. Fibre glass can tend to be brittle in nature, being prone to cracking and leaking. Concrete Tanks Concrete and ferro-concrete tanks are strong and long lasting and can be installed underground. Larger tanks often have to be cast in-situ. New concrete and ferro-concrete tanks will need to be adequately flushed to remove the concrete taste from the water. Concrete is generally porous and tends to crack, thereby occasionally leaking and allowing tree roots to enter. • • • • •
Installing a rainwater tankQueensland is experiencing one of the worst droughts on record. To help people save precious water, the Queensland Government has initiated the Home WaterWise Rebate Scheme, which encourages people to save water by offering rebates on water effi cient products and rainwater tanks.
Using water from rainwater tanks helps you save on your water bill.
Statistics show that prior to water restrictions Queenslanders used up to 50% of domestic town water supply for general outdoor use. 19% of our water is used in the bathroom, 12% fl ushing our toilets, 10% washing our clothes and 9% in the kitchen.
Surprisingly we only consume or drink approximately �% of our water.
What can I use the rainwater for?Rainwater stored in your tank can be used for a number of purposes. It gives you your own water supply which can be used for:
watering the garden;topping up the pool;washing the car and other general outdoor use;fl ushing the toilet; andrunning the washing machine (cold water taps only).
What do I need to consider before purchasing a rainwater tank?When choosing the right rainwater solution for your particular needs, consider factors such as:
what you intend to use the water for;the type of tank you need;the size of tank you need;the location of the tank on your property;access to the site;aesthetics to match your décor or taste;site preparation; water distribution – pump or gravity fed; androof design, surface area and the number of tanks you will need.
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What type of rainwater tank do I need?There are several tanks for you to choose from, such as:
The following information about the advantages and disadvantages of the range of available water tanks has been provided by WaterWise and the Department of Primary Industries and is intended as a guide only:
Metal/steel/galvanised tanks
The most common type of tanks is the galvanised variety, which is available in rust-resistant linings, such as Zincalume or Aquaplate. It is the most inexpensive but has a limited life span. To reduce corrosion in these tanks, a dispenser of crystals of metaphosphates is sometimes used prior to initial fi lling. New galvanised tanks are now available with food-grade polymer lining to help prevent corrosion. When cleaning older tanks it is important not to disturb the fi lms which builds up in the inside walls of the tank, as this helps protect against corrosion.
Fibre glass Tanks
Fibre glass tanks, although more expensive, are longer lasting because they resist corrosion and are not generally affected by chemicals or moisture. Fibre glass tanks allow more light entry than other types of tanks, which encourages algal growth. To prevent this, tanks should be sealed with a black covering inside or painted on the outside. Some tanks are manufactured with suffi cient pigment to prevent this problem occurring. Fibre glass can tend to be brittle in nature, being prone to cracking and leaking.
Concrete Tanks
Concrete and ferro-concrete tanks are strong and long lasting and can be installed underground. Larger tanks often have to be cast in-situ. New concrete and ferro-concrete tanks will need to be adequately fl ushed to remove the concrete taste from the water. Concrete is generally porous and tends to crack, thereby occasionally leaking and allowing tree roots to enter.
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Installing a rainwater tank � December �006
Polyethylene Tanks
Polyethylene tanks do not corrode, are relocatable, are made from a very strong material and are generally, the longest lasting tanks. Generally, high quality polyethylene materials are used, which don’t give out any taste or smell. UV stabilised, food-grade polyethylene is generally an industry-standard. Provided that the tanks are made at the correct thickness, algae growth does not occur. Most of the larger size tanks have leaded PVC support poles to hold up the roof. Poles may wear holes through the roof and they take a lot of effort to stand up if they fall over and the roof collapses. Polyethylene tanks are rotomoulded. Some tanks are made with a vertical seam, and this, being a weak point in the tank, may cause splitting and water loss.
Tanks also come in a variety of shapes and styles. Choose one that is suited to your property. Many plumbers or tank manufacturers will provide free advice and quotes. Use this specialist advice to help you make the right choice.
Other factors will impact your choice and how much you will spend on the tank such as: the requirements and limitations of above or below ground installation; location or available space; fittings; and any site preparations. Consider and ask suppliers about such things as:
how long the tank will last;whether there is a guarantee, and if so what is guaranteed and what period is covered; andwhat the common problems are in this type of tank (see above).
You should contact the tank manufacturer or retailer to find out exactly what site preparation is required for your chosen tank. Some tanks require a concrete slab or foundations to sit on. Others require a flat bed covered in crushed dust/sand. This will also help you to determine where your tank can be located on your property.
It pays to check all the costs involved to avoid a shock when you get the final bill.
Do I need any approvals to install a rainwater tank?There are restrictions in relation to the height and location of rainwater tanks. You should check with your local Council before ordering a tank. If you are connecting the rainwater tank to your household supply, you may also need to obtain plumbing and/or building approvals to make sure it meets relevant standards. In most cases regulations require tank overflows to be connected to the stormwater.
What size tank will I need?The size tank you consider might depend on rainfall in your area, the roof area available, how much water your
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household will use on average per day and what use you will make of the tank water.
Use the table below to help you estimate the amount of water used by your household on a weekly basis. To find out about rainfall in your area contact the Bureau of Meteorology on (07) 3�39 8700 or visit www.bom.gov.au
It is recommended you consider installing a minimum 3,000 litre capacity rainwater tank to maximise the benefit of having a rainwater tank (indicative dimensions 1.53 m diameter x 1.85 m high).
USE TYPE AVG RATE OF FLOW
AVG TOTAL WATER USED
Indoor use
Toilet Single flush 1� litres 1�0 litres per day
Dual flush 6/3 litres 40 litres per day
Washing machine
Twin tub 40 litres per wash
Front loader 80 litres per wash
Top loader 170 litres per wash
Outdoor use
Sprinkler or handheld hose
10-�0 litres per minute
1000 litres per hour
Hosing driveway or path
�0 litres per minute
�00 litres for 10 min
Washing car with running hose
10-�0 litres per minute
100-300 litres
Filling a swimming pool
Up to 55,000 litres
Source: Brisbane Water, Brisbane City Council (intended as a guide only).
How will I distribute the rainwater?How you distribute your rainwater will depend on what you intend to use the water for. If you require strong water pressure to pump water into your home or for a hose to wash your car or driveway, you may need a pressure pump. Ensure the price of the pump and any fittings are included in the quote.
If you intend to use the rainwater for purposes which don’t require strong water pressure, such as to fill up a bucket, watering can or the pool, you may only require the water to be gravity fed.
Installing a rainwater tank 3 December �006
You should talk to a plumber or professional pump dealer to help work out the type of water distribution system you will need. There are many factors which will govern the type and size of pump that you will need so that your system will deliver the appropriate water pressure.
How much does a rainwater tank cost?The cost of a rainwater tank will depend on the type and size of tank you choose.
As an indication, the cost of installing a 5,000 litre tank can range between $1,000- $4,000. So it pays to shop around.
The price of products can also be driven by market pressures. Prices can be inflated when demand for a product outstrips supply. Shop around and negotiate on price as most traders will beat a competitor’s price on a similar product to win your business.
The manufacturers warranty supplied with the tank can also vary greatly, so check the fine print carefully. Warranties can range from 1� months to �5 years depending on the supplier and the tank itself.
You also need to consider all the extras required to install your system, such as a pump, taps and fittings, site preparation, and any Council permits and approvals. Factor in the cost of using a licensed plumber if you intend to use the rainwater for internal purposes (flushing toilets or your washing machine).
What rainwater tank rebates are available?Through the State Government’s Home WaterWise Rebate Scheme, South-East Queensland residents can claim a $1,000 rebate for a new rainwater tank, including installation, pumps diverters and slab, purchased on or after 13 June �006. Residents in the remainder of the State can claim rainwater tank rebates for a tank purchased on or after 16 August �006.
For full terms and conditions and eligibility criteria for the State Government’s Home WaterWise Rebates, call 1800 �43 585 or visit www.nrm.qld.gov.au/water.
Some Councils offer generous rebates in addition to State Governments. Contact your local Council to see what rebates are available in your area.
Note: Residents may apply for rebates from both the State and Council schemes.
What should I do before installing a rainwater tank?The Office of Fair Trading recommends consumers:
shop around for the best price;get at least one, preferably three or more, written detailed quotes;
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check the identity of the supplier and know whether they:
- have a company ABN;- have a registered business name or are trading
under their own name- have a known physical address;
check how long the person has been in business;ensure all aspects of the job, for example delivery, site preparation, installation, connecting overflows to stormwater drains, taps and fittings, are included in the written quote;read and understand all terms and conditions of the quote/contract/warranty before signing – if you’re not sure what something means, ask for an explanation;ensure the tradesperson knows not to proceed with any work or additions/alterations before getting your authority; keep all your receipts and paperwork; andmake sure that your plumber is licensed with the Queensland Building Services Authority by calling 1300 �7� �7�. If the installer is not licensed make sure they are a registered company or have a registered business name (if not trading under their own personal name).
What should I do if I have a complaint?If you are not satisfied with a product or service, contact the trader first to try and resolve the issue. Most traders want to do the right thing.
When you make a complaint:
Get your facts right and always stay calm.Before you contact the store, make some notes of what you want to say.Go back to the shop as soon as possible and take your receipt or other proof of purchase.If you are not satisfied with the outcome put your complaint in writing to the trader. Address your letter to Customer Service or the General Manager giving full details and set a deadline for action.Keep copies of letters along with a diary of events and notes of any telephone calls, including who you spoke to.It can sometimes be helpful to include photographs of the problem or, if your complaint is particularly serious or involves technical issues, you may wish to get an independent expert to provide a written opinion to back up your complaint.If you can’t resolve the matter with the trader, lodge an official complaint in writing with the Office of Fair Trading.
To lodge a complaint with the Office of Fair Trading, visit www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au.
Office of Fair Trading staff can contact the seller on your behalf and try to settle the matter. When assisting you to settle the matter, the Office of Fair Trading does not have
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any legal authority to direct either you or the trader to undertake any particular course of action.
Where there is evidence of a possible breach of legislation, Office Fair Trading staff can investigate and take any necessary action.
If you have a dispute with a builder, plumber or trade contractor in relation to defective or incomplete building work, the Building Services Authority (BSA) may be able assist in resolving the dispute.
To lodge a complaint with the BSA, visit www.bsa.qld.gov.au.
When a dispute cannot be resolved, you may consider seeking legal advice. This may lead to lodging a claim in a relevant Tribunal.
For more information:For more smart shopping tips grab a free copy of How to be Consumerwise by calling 13 13 04 or visit www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au.
For information on water restrictions in your area check with your local council or visit the Queensland Water Commission website at www.qwc.qld.gov.au.
For more information on the State Government’s Home WaterWise Rebates, call 1800 �43 585 or visit
www.nrm.qld.gov.au/water.
To check if the business or company you are using is registered, do a free search of the National Names Index on the Australian Securities and Investments Commission website at www.asic.gov.au.
The Queensland Government supports and encourages the dissemination and exchange of information. However, copyright protects this document. The State of Queensland has no objection to this material being reproduced, made available online or electronically but only if it is recognised as the owner of the copyright and this material remains unaltered.
