Do You Need a Pump with Your Water Tank? Understanding the Benefits

When purchasing a rainwater tank, one of the most common questions we receive at Tank Shop is whether a water tank pump is necessary.

The simple answer is no – a water tank can function perfectly well without a pump for gravity-fed applications. However, there are several compelling reasons why many of our customers choose to include a pump in their setup.

Key Benefits of Adding a Pump

1. Enhanced Water Pressure

For outdoor applications, a pump can significantly boost your water pressure, making it ideal for:

• Garden irrigation and hose use
• Car washing and outdoor cleaning
• Operating sprinkler systems effectively

2. Indoor Water Usage

If you’re planning to use your harvested rainwater inside your home, a pump becomes essential for:

• Toilet flushing
• Laundry facilities
• General indoor plumbing needs

3. Overcoming Elevation Issues

While gravity-fed systems work well in some situations, a pump becomes crucial when:

• Water needs to flow uphill
• Distribution points are higher than the tank
• The tank is positioned below the usage area

4. Improved Water Distribution

A quality pump system helps ensure:

• Consistent water pressure throughout your setup
• The ability to use multiple outlets simultaneously
• Reliable water flow regardless of tank levels

Making the Right Choice

The good news is that you don’t have to decide immediately. A pump can always be added later if your needs change or expand. At Tank Shop, we recommend evaluating your specific requirements and future plans before making this investment. Consider factors like your intended water usage, property layout, and whether you’ll need water supplied to elevated areas or multiple outlets.

Need a pump to go with your rainwater harvesting system? Check out our range of water tank pumps pre-selected for common situations. If you have specific  pumping requirements, please contact us for further options.