Water tanks are useful companions as regards to ensuring a consistent and reliable water supply in your home. However, there are a number of essential things you'll need to consider before purchasing a pump for your water tank.

Distance to be travelled

The distance between the place where the water tank is installed and your home counts because you will generally require a more powerful pump the further away from your home the tank is. For example, the horsepower required to pump water from a deep, private well might be more than that required to supply rainwater from a tank placed adjacent to your home due to the greater pumping distance involved. Also, put in mind that you will require more horsepower to pump water over a vertical distance relative to a similar horizontal distance because of gravitational force involved.

Energy consumption

While it may seem like opting for the most powerful pump you can find is the best decision, it's important to always bear in mind that pumps use energy to supply water in your home. The more powerful the water pump is, the more energy it consumes. Hence, purchasing a pump that is too big for your domestic water needs can lead to higher electricity bills, cancelling out any savings made on your water bill.

To cut down on energy consumption, aim to decrease the number of times your pump has to keep running. This can be achieved by using a gravity feed system or setting up a header tank system.

Water pressure

At what speed do you want water to come out of your tap points? If tank water is reserved for toilets, then low pressure could be okay provided you don't mind if it takes a little more time to fill up the toilet cistern. But, if you intend to use the water to water the lawn or irrigate your small garden, you will probably need a high-powered pump that can push out water much faster.

Noise levels

Different types of water pumps produce different noise levels. The amount of noise produced is heavily dependent on the construction and design of a pump. For instance, a submersible tank pump is installed to lie under the water in your water tank. This way, it can mute the pump noises tremendously, as well as saving up on exterior space. Water tank pumps that are placed out in the open can be enclosed with sound-proofing pump covers to limit the amount of noise produced during operation.

For more information and options, talk with water tank and pump suppliers, like Slater H & Son Pty Ltd.