Well Water Holding Tank Materials

Stainless Steel

• The FDA regulates the administration of materials such as stainless steel for safe food and drink storage. Water bottles, cooking pots, utensils and restaurant preparation surfaces are just some of the everyday items made from this metal composite in the kitchen and the food industry. Stainless steel well water holding tanks are corrosion resistant and won’t chip, scratch or wear like coated steel. Good-quality stainless steel can last more than 40 years and needs almost no maintenance. Because of the abundant manufacturing of this material, competition is plentiful, making it a well-priced option.

Galvanized Steel

• Corrugated galvanized steel tanks have nine times the tensile strength of flat steel. If you reside in an area likely to experience earthquakes or high winds, these tanks are resistant to buckling and bulging, explains BH Tanks Incorporated. Typically, galvanized tanks come with hand-riveted, overlapped seams, enforcing their strength and longevity. Some companies might use an assortment of protective coatings inside or out on galvanized water tanks, such as non-toxic bituminous clay, urethane polymer, exterior acrylic enamel and powder coating. As with any well-water holding-tank, ensure that the manufacturer complies with the standards set in place by the FDA and AWWA.

Plastic

• Empty plastic water tanks are light and easy to move, and offer a suitable option if you need to haul water from the source or move them to another location, the Portable Tank Group says. Made from thick, rugged polyurethane, these tanks come in a variety of shapes and sizes, making them adaptable to almost any storage situation. Store a heavy-duty, upright tank outdoors or build an underground water shed to house a durable, ribbed tank -- either one can stand up to its intended elements.

Hydro-pneumatic Tanks

• Most well water tanks require pumps for filling, but to advance the water from the tank to the home, gravity-feed is usually sufficient. If the lay of the land allows, any water tank placed uphill from the home forces water through the pipes, creating gravity-fed pressure. Hydro-pneumatic tanks are typically made of steel and are equipped with an air charging system that pushes the water to its intended destination without the need for elevated placement. This capsule-shaped tank is normally lined with an epoxy coating and comes mounted on metal saddles ready to stand on level ground.