How to Choose the Right Water Tank: 4 Key Criteria

A dependable water-storage system begins with selecting the correct tank for the application. Tank style, material, structural rating and fitting configuration all affect how reliably the system will perform.

When these requirements are addressed early, the tank can be integrated more efficiently with pumps, piping and site infrastructure – and costly field modifications are less likely.

Four Key Water-Tank Selection Criteria

• Water Type: Potable or Non-Potable
  ‍Drinking-water applications require a tank specifically approved for potable-water storage. Irrigation, process water and other non-potable applications may use different tank specifications. Always confirm the intended use before selecting the tank.
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• Tank Style and Orientation
  ‍Vertical tanks are commonly used for stationary bulk storage because they provide substantial capacity within a relatively small footprint. Horizontal leg tanks suit mobile (truck-mounted, for example) applications, transport requirements and locations with limited overhead clearance. Each configuration requires appropriate support and installation.
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• Specific-Gravity Rating
  Water has a specific gravity of 1.0. Heavier liquids, including many fertilizers and chemicals, require tanks with heavier-duty walls and an appropriate specific-gravity rating. Confirm both liquid compatibility and specific gravity before ordering.
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• Fittings and Connections
  Standard outlets may not match existing pumps, piping or operational requirements. Specifying the size, type and location of bulkheads, valves and other fittings before delivery can reduce job-site modifications and simplify installation.
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Quick Sizing Reference

These broad ranges can provide a starting point for early planning:

• Residential and small-acreage applications: 2,000 L–10,000 L
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• Agricultural and commercial applications: 10,000 L–25,000 L
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• Industrial and fire-protection storage: 20,000 L–50,000 L+
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Final capacity should be based on actual demand, refill rate, available space and any applicable municipal, engineering or fire-department requirements.

Match the Tank to the Application

Percheron Plastic brings more than 30 years of product knowledge to polyethylene tank applications across Canada. We work with industrial operators, engineers, contractors, municipalities, farms and property owners to match tank capacity, configuration and fittings to real operating requirements.Selecting the right tank at the beginning helps create a storage system that will perform reliably for years to come.