How to Plumb a Water Tank: Expert Guide

If you’ve been searching how to plumb a water storage tank, you’re not alone. Many New Zealand homeowners and businesses are installing water tanks to improve water storage, collect rainwater, or boost supply for daily use. A water tank can be an excellent investment, but only if it’s installed and plumbed correctly.

On the surface, installing a water tank looks simple: set the tank in place, connect the inlet and overflow, and tie it into your system. But in reality, the plumbing process involves more steps, compliance checks, and long-term considerations than most people expect. This blog explains why professional installation matters, the risks of DIY, and how Water Works can help you get it right the first time.

Why Install a Water Storage Tank?

Water tanks are more than just big containers in the garden. They can:

• Provide reliable water storage during dry spells
• Help you collect rainwater for irrigation, washing, or household use
• Lower water bills by supplementing mains supply
• Support sustainable living by reducing demand on public systems

Both homes and businesses benefit from water tanks. From a café reusing rainwater for cleaning to a workshop needing extra water supply, having a properly plumbed tank saves money and adds resilience.

When It’s Time to Upgrade or Install a Water Tank

Over time, older or poorly installed tanks can cause ongoing problems. You may need a replacement or upgrade if you notice:

• Cracks or leaks in the tank structure
• Overflow pipes that don’t direct water safely away from the property
• Inconsistent water supply due to incorrect plumbing
• Stale or dirty water from poor sealing or drainage
• A tank that’s too small for your household or business needs

Modern water tanks are designed to be stronger, more hygienic, and easier to maintain. With the right system, you’ll enjoy safe and reliable water storage that works with your lifestyle.

Water Tank Plumbing: How It Works

If you’ve wondered about how to plumb a water tank, here are the core elements professionals handle:

• Inlet and Overflow: Directing rainwater into the tank while ensuring excess water flows out safely.
• Water Supply Connections: Tying the tank into your existing plumbing for household or business use.
• Drainage and Safety: Ensuring the tank doesn’t backflow into mains supply and meets compliance standards.

While it might sound straightforward, each of these requires precision. A single wrong connection can cause leaks, flooding, or even contamination.

The Risks of DIY Tank Plumbing

Plumbing a water tank may look like a weekend project, but mistakes can cause long-term damage. Common DIY errors include:

• Incorrectly fitted inlet and overflow pipes, leading to flooding
• Poor sealing that lets in dirt or pests
• Cross-connection with mains water, risking contamination
• Tank placement that damages foundations or nearby structures

Worse, unlicensed work may void your insurance or fail council approval. What looks like a cost-saving DIY job can turn into expensive repairs.

Why Professionals Handle Tank Plumbing Better

Installing a water tank is more than setting it up in the yard. Licensed plumbers know how to:

• Ensure proper water supply connections without damaging existing plumbing
• Fit inlet and overflow pipes to protect your property from flooding
• Set up safe and hygienic water storage systems for both households and businesses
• Guarantee compliance with New Zealand standards under the Plumbers, Gasfitters, and Drainlayers Act 2006

By hiring a professional, you get more than just a working tank, you get peace of mind that your system is safe, reliable, and built to last.

Water Works: Your Trusted Plumbing Experts

At Water Works, we’re more than just plumbers, we’re trusted experts in installing and maintaining water systems that keep your property running smoothly, with 24/7 emergency plumber services available when you need them most.

With proven experience, the right tools, and a commitment to doing things right the first time, we make sure your water tank installation is safe, compliant, and long-lasting. Call us today on 09 884 4661 or book online to save $15. Don’t risk DIY. Choose Water Works for professional water tank plumbing you can trust.