Check your rainwater tank – springtime outdoor plumbing

Rainwater tank plumbing – Blackburn

Our customer from Blackburn noticed water leaking through the plastic moulding of one of their rainwater tanks. Turns out, it had been repaired before, but the issue persisted.

On closer inspection, our Doherty Plumbing Solutions crew concluded that it was a manufacturing defect. We advised the customer to disconnect the affected rainwater tank and continue with one rainwater tank. They were ok to proceed accordingly.

The faulty tank was disconnected, and the water supply was re-routed to the existing overflow of the second rainwater tank.

Our plumbing professional also looked at the rainwater tank’s pump, which was not functional. The error was in the suction line. We rectified the issue promptly, and the pump was back in working order.

Rainwater tank maintenance – Hawthorn

We recently attended a customer’s property to urgently fix a broken rainwater tank pipeline. The 100mm 90-degree PVC spout beside the property’s rainwater tank was cracked.

Our plumber exposed the earth to cut and remove the damaged 100×90 degree bend. We discussed suitable options with the customer, and supplied and fitted a new 100×90 bend, securely glued into position.

We also removed all rubbish from the site, to clean up the work area afterwards.

Why should we install a rainwater tank?

Simply put, installing a rainwater tank helps manage our water resources more effectively. This brings a multitude of benefits.

We can reuse the natural rainwater collected in these tanks, including in toilets and laundries, as well as for gardening. This saves our precious water resources, while reducing water bills for the household or commercial establishments.

Finding a suitable location for installing rainwater tanks is important. Options can include an above or under the ground surface rainwater tank, or as a sub-floor system. An additional rainwater tank system enables circulation of the stored rainwater throughout the property.

Barring the initial cost of buying and installing the rainwater tank system and rainwater pumps, this aids in potentially saving more money in the long-run.

Rainwater tank plumbing – things to look out for

Regular maintenance of the different components of a rainwater tank and pump system can help prevent surprises.

  • Leaf and other organic debris from vegetation growing around the rainwater tank system can make their way into the pipelines, as well as blocking the downpipes. To keep this litter away, fitting mesh coverings or strainers are recommended across the inlets/outlets of the tank system.
  • Keeping roof gutters and downspouts clean, or installing filters, is also paramount, which will ensure no organic debris flow into the rainwater tank.
  • First flush diverters are another guarding device, which separates contaminants like bird droppings, dirt, etc., and prevents build-up of brown water in the tank. These are installed on the inlet to the rainwater tank.
  • If the stored water in the tank system is stagnant for too long, or gets mixed with debris and other sediments, it could lead to a foul smell and reduce the water quality. Mosquitos could also use this as a breeding ground. Therefore, the tank needs to be cleaned at regular intervals.
  • Pipes connecting the rainwater tank could also be damaged or cracked. Improper alignment of these pipes, as well the tank’s foundation, could be other issues, preventing proper flow of the water.
  • The rainwater pump is another important component of this system that needs to be checked and cleaned. If the pump pressure falls, or its working parts (such as suction points, valves, etc.) begin to falter, these need immediate attention.

Professional rainwater plumbing specialists – Doherty Plumbing Solutions

We understand that essential services need to be maintained so you can go about your regular routine without hiccups. We guarantee a rapid response to your enquiries.

Contact us to discuss your rainwater tank plumbing concerns. As licensed plumbers, the Doherty Plumbing Solutions team stand by the quality of our workmanship.

We will communicate effectively with you to keep you informed at all times.

Contact Doherty Plumbing Solutions:

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    The 3rd time I have used the Doherty team for Plumbing issues and I highly recommend them! Responsive, professional, polite and reasonably priced, all make for a great experience.
    Matt Lane Avatar
    Matt Lane
    2/29/2024
    Communication pre visit was excellent. Yarra Valley water representative said that the problem was on our property and that you should have fixed it. We’re unsure about that and pleased that it was fixed promptly.
    Jane Woodman Avatar
    Jane Woodman
    1/13/2025
    Second time I've used doherty's, first did full storm water drainage, second new hot water system. Great work from the whole team both times. Definitely will use again and also recommend them.
    Michael Prince Avatar
    Michael Prince
    5/20/2023
    We had a leak in our Hot Water Service. James diagnosed the most likely cause over the phone. They came and repaired the problem that day. Tim was prompt and polite and the issue was fixed.
    Poison I Avatar
    Poison I
    6/20/2023
    I called Doherty with a problem that was causing me all sorts of issues. They sorted it out quickly and efficiently and got the job done without any fuss, on time, with courtesy and professionalism and at a reasonable price. I will use Doherty again!
    Christine Salau Avatar
    Christine Salau
    9/06/2023
    Absolute pleasure to deal with. They installed our new toilets with care. They removed and disposed of the old as well as leaving the bathrooms clean. They also returned a few days later to check their work and if we were happy with them. Very happy to refer them to others.
    Chiara Weller Avatar
    Chiara Weller
    7/20/2023
    Arrived at the scheduled time, completed the work professionally and in a timely manner, and to our complete satisfaction, as has always been the case in the past. Staff are always polite and skilled.
    Roger Wilson Avatar
    Roger Wilson
    10/13/2024
    Came same day as I called to fix broken tap that couldn’t be turned off (had to turn water off at mains to stop flooding). Third time I’ve used them within 12 months for different issues. Very helpful, professional staff and reasonable pricing. Highly recommended.
    Garry & Wendy Grinsted Avatar
    Garry & Wendy Grinsted
    4/23/2024
    The team from Doherty Plumbing responded promptly to my emergency call to unblock the sewer drain in our backyard. Tim and Angus were professional, courteous and thorough in their work. I highly recommend this business to take care of your plumbing issues.
    Donna O'Keeffe Avatar
    Donna O'Keeffe
    12/30/2023
    Brian Doherty and his team provided first class service for several gas/electric requirements we had. The plumbing staff were excellent, fully capable, and very easy to work with. Most highly recommended service.
    PJB Avatar
    PJB
    9/13/2024
    For reliable plumbing services, call 03 9877 5775 or 0417 577 432