4 Factors To Consider When Choosing The Right Water Tank Size

Water tanks come in many different colors, shapes, materials, and sizes. While some people opt for small tanks for emergency use, others might be looking for big tanks to meet irrigation and household demands.

If you’re planning to buy a water tank and want to know which is best suited for your needs, the obvious answer is the bigger a water tank is, the more water you can store. However, if you don’t want to be confused with the many different sizes of water tanks available in the market, make sure to keep the following factors in mind:

1. Determine Rain Harvesting Capacity

Know how much water your catchment place can produce and determine the rainfall in your area. Depending on the size of your house, you may collect thousands of liters of rain per month. But, this amount may even fall in several days. Each area is different, so you might want to ask your region’s meteorology department to know the exact rainfall. 

When you know the rainfall and catchment area in your place, calculate the number of liters of rainwater you'll collect. You might also need to make a judgment on how much overflow is acceptable once it pours. 

Knowing how much water you’ll consume may also help. Every person in your house may use a few hundred liters daily, but water restrictions may lessen it.

2. Space 

When selecting the right water tank size for a new water tank replacement, another factor to consider is your property’s space. How much space do you have for it? Keep in mind that water tanks range in size from a hundred liters to a thousand liters. The more water that tanks hold, the more space it’ll require. 

If you have a lot of space, you can install water tanks wherever they’re convenient for you. But, if you have limited space, you might want to opt for an easy-to-conceal small water tank like a bladder tank, which may go under a deck or a house. You can also choose a water tank suitable for an underground installation. 

The location of where you’ll install the tank may also help you determine the right type of tank for you. This may also help you know whether or not you need more than one tank. So, don’t forget to consider the space of your property when choosing a water tank size.

3. Council Water Tank Size Requirements

Some factors that may be overlooked when considering the right water tank size for your needs are your local council's requirements. Several councils may need you to:

• Minimum water tank size capacities for new houses
• Detain rainwater to help with stormwater drainage during the heavy storms
• Retain rainwater to combat bushfires if you’re living in a prone area

Water tank and new house requirements may often be found on your local council’s official website. If possible, consult your local council before proceeding with a new water tank purchase, particularly if you’re constructing a new house. This will ensure that you comply with the necessary requirements.

4. Water Usage And Needs

Knowing your water needs and usage helps you understand the rainwater you need to harvest for daily use. If you’re living in a region with mains water, your previous water bills may give you a clue about your daily water consumption. Hose meters may also help you calculate the water volume you usually use for outdoor activities.

Every day, the average water consumption of every person may vary from one place to another. The simplest way to calculate your water needs or usage is by using a rainwater harvesting calculator, which allows you to choose the usual tasks you use water for to determine how much you need.

What Type Of Water Tank Should You Buy?

Plastic water tanks come in various sizes. The good thing about them is that they can be transported without the need for special permits. Plus, they can be installed quickly. Just ensure to purchase a plastic water tank made from quality material and not something made from clear plastic as they may allow algae to grow inside. 

Concrete tanks, on the other hand, are also an excellent option. However, they should be installed by qualified contractors to ensure they don’t have other failures or develop cracks. Concrete tanks are typically available in 5000 gallons and 10000 gallons. While fire-resistant, the cost is significantly more than the plastic alternative and may require a permit to install.

Conclusion

Choosing the right water tank size for your needs is never easy, especially if many options surround you. To avoid buying the wrong one, always note the above factors when you’re shopping around. Such factors will serve as your guide and allow you to experience greater peace of mind. If you still can’t determine which water tank size is right for you, don’t hesitate to ask professionals or experienced dealers.

6 Tips On Choosing The Right Water Filter System

Before the water from your tap reaches your home, it is possible it has gone through areas with dirt, contaminants, chemicals, and pathogens that can harm your immune system.

Because of this issue, companies such as www.filtap.com.au have stepped up by offering quality water filtration systems to keep the general public from harm. This is particularly important these days as we all aim for healthy living as well as clean surroundings. Choosing a water filter system for your home is often a daunting task, as there are many variables to consider before you can finally decide on the right one.

This article will try to help make your decision-making process easier. The following are a few tips to ensure that you get the right water filter system for your homes.

1. Water Quality

The first question to ask yourself when choosing a water filter system is what contaminants are in your water. There are various water filters in the market that specialize in filtering out different types of contaminant. Knowing what harmful substances are in your water will narrow down your decision accordingly. The most common contaminants found in water are:

• Lead
• Arsenic
• Pharmaceutical waste
• Cleaners (chlorine, ammonia)

If you are unsure of the contaminants present in your water, you can take a sample and have it tested by professionals. Alternatively, you can buy a home water testing kit and check the water yourself.

2. Water Capacity

Different filters vary in the amount of water they can filter daily at optimum levels. You will need to determine how many liters of water you consume every day. Ask yourself the following:

• Is it for drinking water only?
• Will it also be for cooking and cleaning?
• Will it be used for bathroom purposes as well?

Your answers to these questions will inform you of the water capacity you consume.

3. Extra Features

Different brands will have varying additional features in their filtration system. Sometimes, the decision on which one to buy will depend on the features that are most suitable for your home.

4. Flow Rate

It is important to always check the flow rate of your taps. Installing a filtration system with a different flow rate from your faucets is a common mistake. This can cause various problems due to pressure variation.

If the filter flow rate is higher than that of the faucet’s, leakages may happen or a hose may burst. If it is lower, the system will experience frequent choking and the water pressure will be low. Pressure variations also shorten the life span of the filter cartridges.

Some filter systems work based on the maximum flow rate in your home at any given time.

For example, early morning can be considered as peak hours. There could be a toilet flushing, kitchen faucet running, and people showering at the same time. Some systems may not operate efficiently in the situations mentioned. Therefore, estimating the maximum flow rate is important before buying the correct filter that fits your specific situation. 

A method some suppliers use is asking potential buyers the number of bathrooms in their homes.

5. Whole House Point Of Entry (POE) Vs Point Of Use (POU)

There are two main systems to choose from. The POE system deals with filtration of the whole house. From the bathrooms to the laundry room and to the kitchen, it covers every outlet of the house.

POU filters, meanwhile, are placed in specific areas where you wish to use them. Typically, POE systems cost a lot more than POU filters.

6. Credibility

Always ensure that your filter system is bought from a reputable supplier, as this concerns your health and safety. Do not risk buying a shoddy filter system only to be hospitalized later because it failed to do its job.

Use suppliers that offer installation services. In most cases, self-installation will void the warranty and leave you helpless in the event of a mishap. Whenever possible, read online reviews and feedback about the supplier and manufacturer.

Another important thing to consider is if the supplier or brand of filter is approved nationally. This is an easy way to assess if the filter is up to the required standards. Buying and installing filters that don’t meet national standards may cause problems for you in the future.

Conclusion

A quality water filtration system for your home can help keep you and your family safe from contaminants. Take note of these tips when buying a water filter system that is fit for your particular needs.

What To Do With Old And Broken Kitchen Appliances

Kitchen appliances are often made to last, but not perpetually. Many factors can shorten their lifespan, including improper use and frequent power fluctuations. If your oven, refrigerator, or dishwasher has recently died on you, how do you plan on getting rid of it? That’s a question most owners don’t get to think about either before or after purchase.

While it can be challenging to part with an old and faulty kitchen appliance, there are a few ways you can do to make your life easier. Let this article help you find the best solution for electronics disposal.

1. Hire Professional Rubbish Removal Services

Seeking the services of a private junk disposal company such as Dirt Cheap Rubbish Removal and similar firms near you is the easiest way to get rid of kitchen appliances and other bulky trash lying around your home.

These companies offer various services such as removing garden and yard waste or clearing construction refuse. If you have these types of trash that you need to dispose of, consider doing it alongside your kitchen appliances. All you have to do is take the photos and measurements of the items, and the contractor should be able to provide you with estimated work costs.

2. Have It Repaired

Making appliance disposal as eco-friendly as possible is necessary to prevent the release of toxic gases and chemicals that any kitchen appliance may emit while being stored. These hazardous compounds include polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), carbon dioxide, methane, and refrigerants. In some cases of leaking, it can produce pungent smells in the kitchen.

If the technician can still repair the appliance, have it done even if you’ve already bought a new unit. Instead of throwing it away, look for someone who may be happy to use your kitchen implement, no matter its age and refurbished condition.

3. Sell Your Appliances

After having it fixed, try to sell your appliances at low prices. Be transparent about its condition, though, to prevent problems down the road. There are online selling platforms where you can post your item. Most buyers are willing to pick up the appliance from your home. Additionally, you can organize a garage sale and offer these items to your neighbors to reduce the hassle of having the bulky item shipped elsewhere.

4. Donate To Charity

A freshly-repaired kitchen appliance can be sent to charity organizations and thrift shops so families who need it most can have access. These entities accept donations of any size, and they’re willing to pick up these items no matter the size. While the use of appliances has unfavorable environmental impacts and selling repaired units may not be the most environment-friendly option, it can be a better alternative to throwing it in landfills.

5. Sell For Parts

If the item is beyond repair, consider selling the appliance to technicians who’ll take them apart and preserve the valuable spare parts. Some repair centers are willing to pay owners who take their broken appliances to the shop. This is especially useful for machines that are no longer being manufactured. When an electronic unit breaks down and is no longer in production, an owner’s best option is to look for a similarly-built model for parts replacement.

6. Recycle And Repurpose

Besides selling for parts, larger appliances such as washing machines and refrigerators are often broken down and valuable materials such as metal are extracted for recycling. The metal is separated, melted down, and reused in manufacturing new products.

Scrap metal recycling centers may also pay you for any metal such as iron and steel that they’re able to extract from your broken appliance. In some instances, other materials such as plastic and glass are also taken out for repurposing.

7. Swap It Out 

In keeping with being green, some appliance manufacturers accept old units from owners buying a new appliance. This is highly convenient for owners who no longer have to worry about getting rid of their items. These manufacturers are trained to dispose of appliances properly and have connections with other entities that can recycle these units with reduced environmental damages.

8. Request Your Local Government For Pick Up

If you don’t want to spend too much in getting rid of your broken appliances, contact your local municipality to request waste disposal services. Agencies often have specific schedules and terms for these activities, so ask what’s expected from you and prepare small cash to pay for charges. It doesn’t hurt to ask where your appliances go after passing them on to the municipal agency.

Final Thoughts

There are many ways to dispose of broken kitchen appliances. Even if not all countries have laws for the proper disposal of bulky devices, the best route to take when disposing of machines should be to minimize environmental damage. To this end, hiring junk removal companies and other professionals are the most viable options when disposing of your bulky appliances.

3 Small Items You Should Have Around the House

With COVID-19 causing all of us to spend more time at home, it's no surprise that many people are interested in what products they can buy to provide a little more entertainment or improve their quality of life. It's much easier to stay safe at home when you have activities to enjoy and feel comfortable in your environment. It can be difficult to know where to start if it's been a while since you treated yourself.

Take some time to see if there are any items that could make time spent in your home as enjoyable as possible. Finding products that give you something to look forward to in the summer or that can help you take better care of yourself is a good place to start. If you're planning a shopping trip, read on for three small items you should have around the house.

1. Ice Maker

Before the summer arrives, you may want to consider a mini ice machine that can help you out with everything from making frozen cocktails to keeping drinks nice and cold. This model can hold up to 1.5 pounds of ice and create new small- or medium-sized cubes in eight to 10 minutes. It even comes with a serving scoop, which can help you serve yourself or your guests during your next barbecue or pool party.

2. Nail Care Essentials

Most of us could do with taking better care of our nail health, but it can be hard to make time to go to the salon for regular manicures and pedicures. Fortunately, it's easier than ever to get everything you need to help brittle nails with a home manicure kit. While many of us think about our nails in the context of keeping them looking beautiful, many people don't think about the impact poor nail health can have. Taking care of unhealthy nails is the best way to avoid complications and infections.

TrySprig's nail buffer manicure and pedicure kit is one of the best on the market. Its enhanced mineral formula is designed to prevent stains and nail splitting, as well as supporting recovery from nail fungus. If you're serious about growing longer, thicker nails with a healthy shine, you should consider ordering your own kit at trysprig.com.

3. Air Purifier

Every home can benefit from purchasing an air purifier for high-traffic rooms. Not only can it help improve indoor air quality, it can also reduce the presence of many common allergens like dust and pet dander. While an air purifier alone isn't going to eliminate the presence of allergens entirely, it can make a significant difference in your quality of life at home. Other products like dehumidifiers can be useful for damp areas or rooms that can be vulnerable to mold growth.

Indoor air quality is particularly important now with the risks posed by COVID-19. The CDC has said that proper airflow and ventilation should be a part of any comprehensive plan to minimize the risk of infection indoors. This multilayered approach should also include other measures when in the presence of those outside your household or strangers, including social distancing and wearing face masks.

You have plenty of choices if you want to find quality products that can make your day-to-day life a little easier. It's smart to combine fun and function, so you can have fun and improve your overall health when you spend time at home. Particularly while we're still dealing with the effects of COVID-19, creating a safe environment is essential for any household. There are a number of ways you can treat yourself or approach the idea of investing in some new home products and address both your health and entertainment needs.

Common HVAC Issues That Are More Prevalent in Older Homes

Older homes can come with unique charm and character that can make them very attractive to home buyers. From architecture to history, older homes can contribute to the beauty and style of the neighborhood. As with most things, however, age can take a toll on the structures and systems of a house. Older roofs, plumbing, flooring, and wiring could all require additional work and attention. HVAC issues are another common problem found in older homes.

In general, the average HVAC system should last around 20 years, according to many experts. As the equipment ages, it becomes less energy-efficient and will lose the power to circulate air properly. While some of the issues involved with older homes add to the character and charm of the house, HVAC problems can be a headache.

From poor air quality and airflow to outdated equipment, several areas of an older home's HVAC system may require attention. As a result, there are several common HVAC issues that are more prevalent in older homes. Let's take a closer look at some of the HVAC problems that can come with older houses.

1. Lack of Airflow

No matter if you have lived in the home for a month or 20 years, most homeowners never think about their ductwork. The duct system in your home plays a critical role in heating and cooling your home as it is the vehicle for moving the air. Ductwork that is in good working order allows your home to be heated and cooled consistently. Like HVAC systems, however, ductwork has a lifespan and will begin to age and degrade after about 15 years. With proper maintenance and cleaning, air ducts can last a while but will develop cracks and leaks over time.

Depending on the age and condition of the ductwork, older homes could experience poor airflow due to aging materials. Clogs, leaks, and cracks could all interfere with the airflow from the HVAC system and lead to heating and cooling issues throughout the home. Homeowners living in older homes with airflow issues should have technicians inspect the ductwork to check for issues causing inefficiencies and lack of airflow.

2. Poor Indoor Air Quality

Construction and efficiency standards have evolved since the time that many older homes were built. This means that newer technologies and innovations in new homes today have much cleaner air and better airflow. Modern air conditioners help reduce humidity and allergens in the air by condensing and conditioning the air coming into the house. Many older systems just blow cool air and don't have the capabilities that the systems today have. As a result, many older homes have poor air quality.

Older systems allow more unfiltered outdoor air inside and circulate more pollen, dust, and other pollutants throughout the home. In addition, older ductwork can also harbor dust, dirt, allergens, and micro-organisms that spread through the home each time the air comes on. It will be important to check and change the air filters regularly in your older home to help mitigate some of these issues. A professional HVAC technician can also check the air quality in your older home and help you find solutions for any problems.

3. Outdated Thermostats

Another problem that older homes usually have is an outdated thermostat. Typically older thermostats have basic controls for heat, air, on, and off. These thermostats can contribute to frequent cycling, inefficient operation, and wear and tear on the HVAC system. Modern technology in programmable and smart thermostats allows for better control of settings and more reliable system performance. Newer thermostats can maximize energy efficiency.

Older houses can come with charm and history that many newer homes don't have. Along with the cool features and antique architecture, however, HVAC issues can often plague older houses. With some help from HVAC professionals, you can ensure that your home has clean, comfortable air year-round.