Above or Underground Water Tanks? What Works?

StickyWater Tanks

Water tanks are an important investment for homeowners, businesses, and farms alike. They allow you to store rainwater, graywater, or other types of water for future use. But when it comes to choosing between above-ground and underground water tanks, which option is best?

Pros and Cons of Above-Ground vs. Underground Water Tanks

Above-ground water tanks are the more common choice for many people, as they are easier to install, access, and maintain. They come in various sizes, shapes, and colors, making them a versatile option for residential, commercial, and industrial applications. Additionally, above-ground water tanks are typically less expensive than underground ones, as they require less excavation and construction work.

On the other hand, underground water tanks are a more discreet option that can save space and enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property. They are well-suited for areas where space is limited, such as urban or suburban environments. Furthermore, underground water tanks can prevent algae growth and maintain water temperature, as they are shielded from sunlight and extreme weather conditions. However, underground water tanks require more preparation, installation, and maintenance work, as they involve excavation, backfilling, and ventilation.

Choosing the Right Water Tank for Your Needs: Above-Ground vs. Underground Options

When deciding between above-ground and underground water tanks, consider the following factors:

  • Water Usage: How much water do you need to store, and for what purposes? If you need a large volume of water for irrigation, firefighting, or other applications, an above-ground tank might be a better fit. If you need smaller amounts of water for household use, such as flushing toilets or doing laundry, an underground tank might be more appropriate.
  • Available Space: How much space do you have on your property, and where is it located? If you have ample space and want your tank to be visible, an above-ground tank could be ideal. If you have limited space or want your tank to be hidden, an underground tank could be the way to go.
  • Budget: How much are you willing to spend on your water tank, including installation and maintenance costs? If you have a tight budget, an above-ground tank could be a cost-effective option. If you have a higher budget and want a long-lasting, low-maintenance tank, an underground tank could be a worthwhile investment.

Above-Ground vs. Underground Water Tanks: Which One Is More Cost-Effective?

When comparing the cost of above-ground and underground water tanks, it’s important to consider the initial installation costs, ongoing maintenance costs, and potential repair costs. While above-ground tanks are typically less expensive to install, underground tanks can save money in the long run by reducing water loss due to evaporation, algae growth, and other factors. Additionally, underground tanks can improve the overall value of your property and potentially lower your water bills, as they provide a sustainable and reliable source of water.

Environmental Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Above-Ground and Underground Water Tanks

When choosing between above-ground and underground water tanks, it’s important to consider the environmental factors that could impact your decision. For example, above-ground water tanks are more susceptible to weather damage, such as high winds or hail, while underground tanks are less likely to be affected by such conditions. Additionally, above-ground tanks can be more prone to algae growth and water contamination due to exposure to sunlight, while underground tanks are shielded from such factors.

How to Decide Between Above-Ground and Underground Water Tanks for Rainwater Harvesting

Rainwater harvesting is a sustainable and eco-friendly practice that can provide a reliable source of water for various applications. When deciding between above-ground and underground water tanks for rainwater harvesting, consider the following factors:

  • Rainfall Patterns: How much rain do you receive in your area, and how often? If you live in an area with frequent and heavy rainfall, an above-ground tank could be a good choice. If you live in an area with limited rainfall or drought conditions, an underground tank could be more effective.
  • Water Quality: What is the quality of the rainwater in your area, and what factors could affect it? If your rainwater is likely to contain contaminants or pollutants, an underground tank could be a better choice, as it can provide additional protection against such factors.
  • Available Space: How much space do you have on your property, and where is it located? If you have ample space and want your tank to be visible, an above-ground tank could be ideal. If you have limited space or want your tank to be hidden, an underground tank could be the way to go.

Choose Rotational Plastics for Your Water Storage Needs

When it comes to choosing a water storage solution, Rotational Plastics has you covered. Our high-quality above-ground and underground water tanks are designed to meet a variety of needs and applications, from residential and commercial to agricultural and industrial. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, we have the expertise and knowledge to help you choose the perfect water tank for your property. Contact us today to learn more and get started on your water storage journey. Make sure you call Rotational Plastics for all your water storage needs!

Rainwater Retention: Why It’s Time to Take Action in Auckland

StickyWater Tanks

Auckland is a beautiful city with much to offer, but it’s no secret that it can rain quite a bit here. Unfortunately, Auckland’s public system is not equipped to handle extreme weather events, so it’s up to property owners to do their part and help prevent flooding and water damage. One way to do this is by retaining rainwater on your own property. Here’s what you need to know.

The Importance of Water Retention in Auckland: Why It Matters More Than Ever

When it comes to managing rainwater, every drop counts. Retaining water on your own property can help reduce the risk of flooding and erosion and provide a valuable source of water for plants and gardens. Additionally, with the extreme weather events in Auckland, it’s clear that the public system alone cannot handle the demand for water management. This is why water retention is more important than ever.

Auckland’s Public System vs Extreme Weather: Why Retaining Water is Critical

Auckland’s public system was not designed to handle the amount of rain that we see today. When there is too much water flowing into the system, it can cause overflows, sewage spills, and other issues. Retaining water on your property can help alleviate some of the stress on the public system by reducing the amount of water needed to be processed. It’s a win-win situation: you help protect your property, while also helping to prevent damage to the larger community.

How to Prepare for More Rain: Tips for Water Retention on Your Property

So, what can you do to retain rainwater on your own property? There are many simple and effective ways to get started, such as installing detention tanks and retention tanks. Retention tanks are a great option for collecting water from your roof for later use such as in your garden. Detention tanks store the water temporarily to slowly release it back into the stormwater system.

Saving Water and Money: The Benefits of Retaining Water on Your Property

Not only does retaining water on your own property help protect against flooding and water damage, but it can also help you save money on your water bill. Using rainwater to water your plants and garden can reduce your reliance on the public water supply. Plus, many of the water retention solutions mentioned above are affordable and easy to install, making them an accessible option for many homeowners.

The Environmental Impact of Water Retention: Why Every Property Owner Can Make a Difference

Finally, it’s important to note the positive environmental impact of water retention. By reducing the amount of water that runs off your property, you help prevent erosion and pollution in nearby bodies of water. Additionally, retaining water can help promote biodiversity and create a habitat for wildlife. Every property owner can make a difference by taking steps to retain rainwater.

Auckland Council’s Water Management Plan: What You Need to Know and How You Can Help

The Auckland Council has a water management plan in place to help address the challenges of water management in the city. As a property owner, it’s important to be aware of this plan and how you can help. The council offers resources and information on rainwater harvesting, green infrastructure, and other strategies for water retention. Additionally, they offer rebates and incentives for property owners who take steps to retain rainwater. By working together with the council, we can create a more sustainable and resilient Auckland.

The Future of Water Retention in Auckland: How We Can Work Together to Protect Our City

In the face of increasing rainfall and the limitations of the public water management system, it’s clear that we all have a role to play in protecting our city. By retaining rainwater on our own properties, we can help alleviate the strain on the public system, reduce the risk of flooding and water damage, and create a more sustainable environment. Whether you’re a homeowner, business owner, or community member, there are steps you can take to help. By working together, we can build a brighter future for Auckland. Go Check out our extensive range of plastic water tanks for use at your home.

Choosing the Right Size for Your Underground Plastic Tank

About Plastic Products

Underground plastic tanks prove to be a wise choice for storing a diverse array of liquids, encompassing water, chemicals, fuels, and more. They offer a host of advantages, including space efficiency, environmental safeguards, and enduring durability. However, to fully capitalize on the benefits of an underground plastic tank, it is paramount to make the right size selection. In this blog post, we will delve into the pivotal considerations when it comes to determining the size of your underground plastic tank.



Assess Your Storage Requirements:

Initiating the process of choosing the correct size for your underground plastic tank begins with a comprehensive assessment of your storage needs. Pose these fundamental questions to yourself:

What type of liquid is earmarked for storage?

How voluminous is the quantity you intend to store?

What is the intended purpose of the storage (e.g., residential, commercial, industrial)?

Do you anticipate any future escalation in your storage prerequisites?

By gaining a precise understanding of your specific requirements, you can more effectively gauge the tank size that will best align with your objectives.

Compute the Necessary Capacity:

Once you have a lucid grasp of your storage requisites, proceed to calculate the requisite tank capacity. In the context of water storage, this often entails estimating your daily water consumption and determining the number of days you wish the tank to sustain water supply in cases of scarcity or emergencies.

For other types of liquids, take into account factors such as consumption rates, refill frequencies, and any regulations governing storage capacity.

Account for Spatial Constraints:

An additional critical facet to consider is the availability of space for your underground plastic tank. Accurately measure the designated installation area, taking into consideration potential obstructions, subsurface utilities, or adherence to building codes. Ensure that the tank’s dimensions align with the allocated space, allowing adequate room for proper installation and future maintenance requirements.

Contemplate Future Expansion:

Deliberate upon your future needs when finalizing the tank size. If you envisage an escalation in your storage demands over time, it is often a judicious decision to opt for a larger tank during the initial installation rather than retrofitting or adding supplementary tanks subsequently. This proactive approach can yield cost savings and minimize disruptions down the line.

Adherence to Regulatory Norms:

Examine the local regulations and codes pertaining to underground storage tanks. Certain regions have specific stipulations concerning tank capacity, construction materials, and installation standards. Ensure that the chosen tank size conforms to these regulations to preempt potential legal complications in the future.

Seek Professional Consultation:

In cases of uncertainty regarding the ideal tank size, it is prudent to seek guidance from professionals such as tank manufacturers or installers. These experts can conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your specific requirements, undertake a site assessment, and proffer recommendations on the most appropriate tank size tailored to your application. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you need help. 

Budgetary Considerations:

Factor in your budget while finalizing the tank size. Larger tanks often entail higher initial costs; however, they may deliver enhanced long-term value by adequately fulfilling your needs over an extended period without necessitating frequent replacements or expansions.

The selection of the right size for your underground plastic tank represents a pivotal decision with far-reaching implications for efficiency, functionality, and cost-effectiveness in your storage solution. By meticulously evaluating your storage needs, accommodating spatial constraints, adhering to regulatory prerequisites, and seeking professional input when required, you can make an informed choice that ensures your underground plastic tank serves its intended purpose effectively and efficiently for years to come.

Unlocking Space and Efficiency: The Advantages of Above-Ground Water Tanks

Water Tanks

In a world where space is at a premium, finding innovative solutions to make the most of what we have is paramount. One such solution that has been gaining popularity is the use of above ground water tanks. These versatile structures offer a host of benefits, from space optimization to enhanced efficiency in water storage.


Space Optimization

Among the most apparent benefits of above-ground water tanks lies their capability to optimise space. Unlike traditional below ground tanks that require excavation and often eat into valuable real estate, above-ground tanks can be installed without significant disruption. This makes them the ideal choice for properties with limited space, enabling the efficient utilization of available land without compromising on water storage capacity.

Cost-Effective Installation

Above-ground water tanks generally present a more cost-effective installation option when compared to their subterranean counterparts. The absence of excavation requirements and associated labour costs substantially reduces the overall expenses of installation. Furthermore, above-ground tanks offer flexibility in terms of placement and can be positioned in various locations to align with specific design preferences.

Convenient Access and Maintenance

Accessibility constitutes a critical factor in the efficiency of any water storage system. Above-ground water tanks excel in this regard, as they are easily accessible for inspection, maintenance, and cleaning. This accessibility ensures that any issues can be promptly identified and addressed, ultimately leading to enhanced efficiency and an extended lifespan for the tank.

Tailored Design Options

Above-ground water tanks come in various sizes and shapes, allowing for customization to suit specific needs. Whether the requirement is for residential, commercial, or industrial purposes, one can select a design that perfectly aligns with their requirements. This design flexibility empowers users to maximize their storage capacity while preserving the aesthetic harmony of their property.

Reduced Contamination Risk

Above-ground water tanks exhibit a reduced susceptibility to contamination from subterranean sources, such as groundwater or soil contaminants. This characteristic can lead to an improvement in water quality and reduced expenses associated with water treatment. Additionally, above-ground tanks can be equipped with protective measures to prevent external contaminants from infiltrating the water supply.

Swift Installation and Scalability

Above-ground water tanks can be installed with relative speed, minimising operational downtime. Furthermore, if water storage needs grow over time, expanding an above-ground system is a straightforward process, whether through the addition of more tanks or by increasing the size of existing ones. This scalability proves invaluable for businesses and industries with evolving water requirements.

The challenge of optimizing space and efficiency is a perpetual one, but above-ground water tanks offer a practical and cost-effective solution. Their ability to make the most of available space, reduce installation costs, facilitate easy maintenance access, and provide customization options positions them as an appealing choice across various applications. Whether you seek to enhance your residential water supply, fortify your commercial operations, or refine your industrial processes, above-ground water tanks offer a path to achieving your goals with efficiency and effectiveness. Consider this innovative solution for your water storage needs and embrace the multitude of benefits it brings to the table. Contact us now!

Benefits of Retention Tanks

About Rotational Plastics

Decrease groundwater utilization.

Water can be utilized for water systems, flushing toilets, filling a pool, washing garments, and numerous others. If these water-greedy exercises are managed without utilizing groundwater, nature’s supply would be saved as opposed to being spent totally.

Decrease water bills.

Rain is free. So, collecting and using it for some things that need water implies you will not need to depend on water from a service provider. You just need to consume them whenever stormwater runs out.

Expand water supply.

With collected water from rain, times of dry seasons might be more limited. This is particularly obvious, assuming that you have sufficient downpour gathered. Any other way, you can purchase water when the water from the tank runs out.

Decrease soil disintegration and flooding.

At the point rainwater is collected in tanks during the stormy season, run-off is diminished, which lessens soil disintegration and contamination of surface water because of the fertilizers and pesticides.

Better control of the water supply

Most water retention tanks run on straightforward technology requiring no maintenance. This empowers you to gather and control the water supply exactly how you want it to.

Given these advantages, you ought to have a water stockpiling tank introduced for your home or business. Please do not hesitate to contact us. 

Marine Box

Plastic Marine Products

You own a boat? You should own one of our Marine boxes!

Whether you’re fishing, storing tools or Marine related gear, you want to own a rotational Plastics Marine box.

Our range can be viewed here:

https://www.rotationalplastics.co.nz/marine-recreation/storage

The variety is comprehensive and includes:

  • Handyman box with tray
  • Strop Box
  • Standard tool box
  • A range of tool or storage boxes from 1 metre to 1.8 metres.

The advantage of our marine storage is that the salt will not destroy our hard commercial grade plastic. Reliable and professional storage for marine professionals.  Store your cray fish or snappers while out fishing or mount permanently on your vessel.

Our marine boxes are high quality and can be viewed at before purchase. Contact us for more information.

What industries use plastic pallets?

Plastic Pallets

For what reason might a company want to use plastic pallets over the traditional wooden variety? While some industries just need something to get the job done, other industries have certain requirements which wooden pallets do not meet.

One of the main reasons to use plastic storage pallets is because of the properties of the plastic itself. Typically pallets are made from polyethylene which not only is not only extremely durable but is considered to be hygienic and a food grade plastic.

So, what industries can benefit from a polyethylene plastic pallet?

Food and Beverage Industry

As mentioned, polyethylene is a food safe plastic. Plastic pallets are extremely easy to clean and sterilise, making them ideal for warehouses where they may be reused. Additionally, plastic pallets are chemically inert, meaning they are immune to:

  • Mould
  • Bacteria
  • Pathogens
  • Insects.

Therefore, products can be stored on plastic storage pallets for extended periods without the pallets causing contamination.

Unlike wooden pallets, which may have been chemically treated, plastic pallets have no such requirement. Furthermore, any contamination acquired in transit can be easily washed away, unlike a wood pallet which may soak up any harmful chemicals, oils or spills.

When storing large quantities in a freezer plastic pallets may be the only option, as wooden pallets are porous and can hold moisture. This moisture will then freeze and expand, potentially damaging the structural integrity of the wooden pallet.

Pharmaceuticals and Fragile goods

Some industries such as pharmaceuticals may have strict guidelines for hygiene in the supply chain. Thus, plastic storage pallets are required to prevent contamination to sensitive products.

Polyethylene plastic storage pallets are extremely durable, and are cast in one piece. This eliminates issues such as loose nails snagging and damaging products/packaging. 

As you can see, plastic pallets offer significant advantages over wooden pallets. Generally in the form of durability and resistance to contamination. In environments where cleanliness is important, plastic is the obvious choice.

Get in touch with us online or call 0800 768 284 for more information on our range of plastic storage pallets.

Guide to Collecting and Using Rainwater

Harvest Rain Water, Uncategorized

Whether you live somewhere rural, far from mains water supply, or simply wish to live as sustainable as possible then you might want to collect rainwater. Rainwater is excellent for watering your garden, washing clothes and flushing toilets. If properly treated, rainwater can also be used for drinking.

How to collect and use rainwater

Generally, the simplest way to collect rainwater is by collecting it from your roof. Connecting a small plastic tank to your gutter allows you to store the water that would otherwise go down the drain.

This system can actually get you quite far. A simple plastic barrel at the bottom of your drain is perfect for those looking to use rainwater on their garden. This use case is simple, cheap, and small. However if you plan to use rainwater for more than just your garden, you will soon find this solution to be less than ideal.

The average garden water tank is usually small, holding about 200L – 500L. If you plan on collecting rainwater for indoor supply a much larger tank is required. A 5000L plastic water tank in areas with year round rain, such as Auckland, is perfect. Dryer climates may need a tank larger than 10,000L.

Rainwater Tank Materials

You can buy tanks in all kinds of shapes, sizes and materials. We offer a selection of plastic tanks. However, you can also find concrete and steel tanks on the market. Each offers their own benefits. Such as concrete which is often used for in-ground tanks. Plastic retention tanks however are a common choice for their durability, light weight and low cost.

It is important to note that regardless of what tank you have it will need to be supported by some kind of foundation. 1L of water weighs 1Kg. So, even a 250L tank can become heavy enough to sink into the ground.

There are many different configurations, sizes and types of rainwater collect systems. It is best to consult with a professional before getting to work. However, if you are after some New Zealand designed and made plastic water storage tanks do not hesitate to give us a call on 0800 768 284.

Types Of Water Tanks

Water Tanks

Water storage tanks are essential in households today because they ensure that homeowners have enough water supply for their daily needs, like washing food, cleaning the dishes, and laundry. They also make a great addition to homes because they promote water conservation and rainwater collection.

However, it’s no secret that finding a suitable water tank can be a bit tricky because of the different options available. Moreover, they come with varying pros and cons. If you plan on buying one for your home, we suggest going through our quick water tank shopping guide and product comparison below.  

Above-ground tank vs. Below-ground tank

When shopping for water tanks, homeowners mostly choose between the above-ground or below-ground type. As their names suggest, their key difference lies in where you can install them.

Below Ground Tank

If you want to have a water storage tank but want to conceal it and save space in your property, then you might likely prefer the below-ground or in-ground type. It also makes a good choice for people who want to protect their tanks from harsh weather elements, vandalism, and premature damage.

However, you might have to contend with a few disadvantages if you opt for an in-ground tank. Some examples of these cons include:

  • Difficulty seeing cracks, leakages, or other signs of damages
  • High installation cost because of added excavation costs
  • High operational price because you need to install a pumping system

Above Ground Tank

If you are eyeing a practical and affordable water storage option, the above-ground type might suit you. Because it’s far simpler to set up than the latter option, as an above-ground water tank doesn’t come with the expensive installation cost. Moreover, you can move the water tank wherever and whenever you want – a perfect compromise if you don’t plan on staying in a property for a long time.

However, just like the other type of water storage tank, the above-ground option also comes with a few disadvantages, including:

  • Increased vulnerability to damages (vandalisms, accidents, etc.)
  • Poor insulation, causing the water temperature to fluctuate depending on the season
  • It can be costly to run if you want to keep the water temperature consistent

Additional Water Tank Shopping Tips

When choosing between an above-ground or below-ground water tank, we highly recommend considering the things we shared above. Additionally, it would help if you also looked into other factors like:

  • The type of material used: Water storage tanks are made from varying materials, including plastic, metal, and fiberglass. In most cases, it’s better to opt for plastic because they require very little maintenance. They are also lightweight, affordable, and non-corrosive.
  • The location where you intend to install the tank: The size of the area plus other factors such as sun exposure, road access, and whatnot also plays a crucial role when planning what type of water tank to buy.

Detention vs. Retention Tanks

Besides the two options we shared above, you might also be interested in buying a detention or retention tank. Essentially, you can find both tanks underground. They also collect stormwater, but for different reasons: the detention tank manages drainage water while the retention tank collects rainwater. Here are other insights that might come in handy when choosing between the two:

  • Retention tanks make an excellent addition to your home if you live in areas with little to no access to reticulated water sources.
  • A detention tank is a must-have for homes that need to boost their drainage efficiency during the rainy season. However, we recommend opting for detention tanks equipped with a dual filtration system to prevent debris from getting stuck.
  • Choose a tank based on the materials. While you might find ones made from steel or fiberglass, the ones made from polyethylene are the best option because of their durable make, high water capacity, and non-corrosiveness.

We hope our quick guide will come in handy when you shop for a water tank. Do you need further help choosing a water storage tank for your property? We can help! Call us today at 0800 768 284 for more information about water storage tanks.

Custom Plastic Moulding: Advantages of Rotational Moulding

Custom Plastic Mouding

When considering purchasing custom plastic moulding, it is important to consider the type of plastic moulding is best for you. Rotational plastic moulding, also known as roto moulding or rotational casting is a method of forming plastic that lends itself well to a particular type of product. Unlike injection moulding or other methods, rotational moulding can produce larger plastic products. However it is not without its disadvantages. There are some designs that are simply not possible with a rotational moulding set up. Knowing what is possible should help you make an informed decision for when you need to purchase custom plastic moulding for your product.

Size

Rotational plastics lends itself well to creating large plastic objects that simply aren’t possible with some other conventional methods. This allows people to design plastic products for applications in construction and infrastructure. However, that doesn’t mean we can’t make something small using rotational moulding.

Design

The types of designs that work well with rotational moulding are typically symmetrical and hollow. This means the ideal plastic product is something geometric, such as water tanks, road barriers, etc. This may limit you if you intend to produce small intricate products. However, if you need something that needs to be one solid piece then rotational moulding might be advantageous. 

For more information on what is possible with rotational moulding, read our previous blog on custom plastic moulding.

If you have an idea for a plastic product and don’t know where to start contact the team at rotational plastics. Call 0800 768 284, we can help you with the design of your product to ensure it is a suitable bit for rotational plastic moulding. Creating a custom moulding can be a lengthy process, so having an invested team is important to ensure the success of your product.