Key Questions to Ask When Ordering grp water tank

16, Jun. 2025

 

Questions about important criteria in buying or ordering fiberglass ...

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1- How much liquid or substance should be stored in it?

To determine the required capacity and dimensions of a Fiberglass tank, there are a number of factors to consider. These factors include the following:

For a more accurate calculation of the capacity and dimensions of the tank, it may be necessary to consult an engineer or specialist in this field. They can recommend the best size and capacity based on your needs and requirements.

2- What kind of liquids or materials are supposed to be stored in the tank?

The type of material that is stored in the fiberglass tank has a significant effect on the design and specifications of the tank. Here is a full explanation on this topic:

  • Chemical Compatibility: Fiberglass must be compatible with the stored material to prevent corrosion or harmful chemical reactions. Some chemicals may react with fiberglass and damage the structure of the tank.
  • Explosion and fire hazard: If the stored material is flammable or explosive, special safety measures must be taken. It includes special designs to prevent sparks and fires.
  • Density and Specific Gravity: The specific gravity of the stored material has a direct impact on weight bearing and tank design. Some materials are heavier than water and require stronger containers.
  • Physical Properties: Properties such as viscosity, freezing point, and boiling point of the stored material must be considered to ensure the selection of appropriate materials for tank construction.
  • Environmental effects: Consideration should be given to whether the stored substance has specific environmental hazards. This includes the leakage of toxic substances or contaminants.
  • Internal Coating Necessity: Some materials may require a special internal coating in the tank to prevent direct contact of the material with the fiberglass.
  • Regulations and standards: Depending on the type of material, there may be specific storage regulations and standards that must be followed.

In summary, the selection of a suitable fiberglass tank is strongly influenced by the type of material to be stored and all aspects related to its chemical, physical, safety and environmental characteristics should be considered.

3- What kind of environmental conditions will the tank be in?

Environmental conditions for fiberglass tanks are another important criteria in ordering fiberglass tanks and play a vital role in determining their specifications and durability. Here is a full explanation of these conditions:

  • Temperature:

Temperature tolerance: Tanks must be able to withstand a wide range of temperatures, from extreme cold to extreme heat. This is especially important in cases where tanks are installed outdoors.

Effects of temperature changes: Sudden changes in temperature can cause contraction or expansion of materials, which should be considered in tank design.

  • UV radiation and sunlight:

Resistance to UV radiation: Fiberglass must be resistant to ultraviolet rays (UV) so that it does not erode over time.

Paint and protective coating: Using protective paints and coatings can help protect the tank from direct sunlight.

  • رطوبت و بارندگی:

Resistance against rust and corrosion: In areas with high humidity or heavy rainfall, the resistance of tanks against corrosion becomes more important.

Evacuation and drainage: The design of the tank should be such that the water collected on it can be easily drained.

  • Wind pressure and snow load:

Resistance against wind: In windy areas, tanks should be designed so that they are not destroyed or deflected under wind pressure.

Snow load bearing: In snowy areas, the tank must be able to withstand the weight of snow accumulated on it.

  • Soil conditions:

Ground stability: To prevent the tank from settling or moving, the ground and soil conditions of the installation site must be checked.

Earthquake resistance: In earthquake-prone areas, tanks should be designed to be resistant to ground vibrations.

  • Chemical and industrial environments:

Resistance to chemicals: In industrial environments where chemicals may vaporize or leak, tanks must be resistant to these substances.

  • Local rules and regulations:

Compliance with standards: Some regions may have specific standards and rules for installing and using tanks in different environmental conditions.

Finally, these environmental conditions must be carefully considered to ensure that the selected fiberglass tank has the most appropriate specifications and resistances.

4- To what level of pressure and temperature should the tank be resistant?

Pressure and temperature are another important criteria in ordering fiberglass tanks. The resistance of fiberglass tanks against pressure and temperature are two critical factors in the design and application of these tanks. Here is a complete explanation of these two factors:

A) pressure resistance

b) Temperature resistance

5- To what extent should the tank comply with national or international safety and quality standards?

Other important criteria in ordering fiberglass tanks is compliance with standards. Safety and quality standards for fiberglass tanks have been developed to ensure their safety, durability, and efficiency throughout their useful life. These standards include the following:

  • Material and construction standards

- Standards related to materials: Determining the quality and characteristics of materials used in the construction of tanks, such as resins, fiberglass fibers and additives.

– Quality control in the manufacturing process: standards for manufacturing processes such as manual lamination, resin spraying, or other manufacturing methods.

  • Design standards

– Engineering Design: Ensuring that the design of the tank is suitable for the type of use, pressure, temperature, and stored materials.

- Stress and durability analysis: Checking the resistance of the tank against mechanical, thermal and chemical stresses.

  • Testing and inspection standards

- Hydrostatic tests: Performing pressure tests to ensure the tank's resistance to operating pressure.

– Visual and non-destructive inspections: Periodic inspections to detect defects, cracks or structural damage.

  • Safety and environmental standards life

– User safety: Ensuring that tanks are safe for users in operational conditions.

- Environmental protection: Preventing material leakage and protecting the environment.

  • Compliance with international and national standards

– International standards: such as ISO (International Organization for Standardization) or ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials).

– National standards: such as local standards and national laws that may be specific to the country or region.

  • Industry specific standards

- For specific industries such as oil and gas, chemical, water and sewage, there are specific standards that must be met.

6- What additional features are needed such as valves, ladders, level sensors or other equipment?

Among the important criteria in ordering fiberglass tanks is paying attention to additional design features for fiberglass tanks, which can include various items that help increase efficiency, safety and access to the tank. Here are some of these features:

  • Valves and ports

Access hatches: for inspection and cleaning inside the tank.

Input and output ports: designed to connect pipes and equipment.

Ventilation valves: to prevent excessive pressure inside the tank.

  • Sensors and instrumentation

Liquid level sensors: To monitor the liquid level inside the tank.

Pressure and temperature gauges: to monitor the operational conditions inside the tank.

  • Safety systems

Emergency systems to prevent explosions: such as safety vents.

Fire extinguishing systems: for emergency use.

  • Mechanical components

Ladders and steps: For easy access to the top hatches of the tank.

Bases and supporting structures: To support the tank and distribute the weight evenly.

  • Coatings and insulation

Internal and external coatings: To resist corrosion or atmospheric agents.

Thermal insulation: To maintain the temperature inside the tank.

  • Modular design and flexibility

Modular design: to increase or decrease the tank capacity in the future.

Ergonomic design: to facilitate installation and maintenance.

These additional design features help improve the performance, safety and accessibility of fiberglass tanks and can vary depending on specific application and environmental needs.

7- What is your budget for this purchase and what additional costs (such as shipping and installation) may exist?

Another important criteria in ordering fiberglass tanks is to pay attention to the budget, when considering the budget and costs associated with the purchase and installation of fiberglass tanks, several important factors should be considered. These factors include the price of the tank itself, installation and commissioning costs, side costs, and maintenance and repair costs during the life of the tank.

  • The purchase price of the tank

Size and capacity: The larger the tank, the more expensive it usually is.

Materials and design: The quality of materials and the complexity of the design can affect the price.

Additional features: such as sensors, valves, special covers, and other added features.

  • Installation costs

Transportation cost: depending on the distance from the place of production to the place of installation.

Installation work: including the wages of installers and accessories needed for installation.

Site preparation: such as digging, concreting, or other infrastructure work.

  • Ancillary costs

Permits and Approvals: Costs related to obtaining necessary permits and complying with regulations.

Insurance: to cover possible risks during installation and operation.

  • Maintenance and repair costs

Regular maintenance: Costs related to periodic inspections, cleaning and repairs.

Replacement of parts or major repairs: In case of damage or wear and tear.

  • Possible future costs

Expansion or upgrade: Expenses related to increasing the capacity or improving the performance of the reservoir in the future.

Replacement: Finally, the cost of replacing the tank after its useful life.

Important note

Determining an accurate budget requires consideration of multiple factors and may require research and consultation with manufacturers and experts. Also, comparing different quotes and exploring different options can help you get the best possible value for your investment.

8- How long will the tank be needed and what is the expected delivery time?

One of the important criteria in ordering fiberglass tanks is delivery time for Fiberglass tanks is an important variable that can be determined based on several different factors. Understanding these factors will help you have realistic delivery time expectations and plan accordingly.

  • Production stages

Design and engineering: Time needed to design the tank and perform engineering calculations.

Final approval of the design: After the design is completed, approval may be required from the buyer.

  • Production and construction

Preparation of raw materials: Provide the materials needed to build the tank.

Manufacturing process: The time required to build the tank, which varies depending on the size and complexity of the tank.

  • Inspections and tests

Quality inspection: Ensuring that the tank is manufactured according to the required standards.

Performance tests: Conducting tests such as pressure testing to ensure tank performance.

  • Packaging and shipping

Preparation for shipping: Proper packaging to prevent damage during shipping.

Shipping time: Depending on the distance to the installation location, it may take a few days to a few weeks.

  • Installation

Planning for installation: Coordination with installation teams and preparation of installation site.

Installation process: The time required to install and set up the tank on site.

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  • External factors

Production delays: such as lack of raw materials or problems in the production line

The answers to these questions will help you choose the fiberglass tank that best meets your needs.

In this article, we tried to provide you with comprehensive information so that you can choose the best option when buying or ordering fiberglass tanks. You can get more information from the engineers of Fajar Sablan Entrepreneurs Cooperative Company (Arta Composite). Connect

Poly Tanks Series | Water Tank Buying Guide

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

  1. Water Tank Definition
  2. Common Water Tank Uses
  3. Water Tank Material Types
  4. What Water Tank is Best
  5. Top Points in Water Tank Selection
  6. Choosing a Water Tank by Application
  7. Choosing a Water Tank by Size
  8. Choosing a Water Tank by Shape
  9. Choosing a Water Tank by Color

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

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 

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.

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

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

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

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

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 

Vertical Tanks

Underground Cisterns

Cone Bottom Tanks

IBC Tote Tanks

Rainwater Harvesting 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

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

Steel Wine Tanks

Wine IBC Tote Tanks

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 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 

Stainless Steel 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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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