20 September 2024
Can I Bury a Rainwater Tank?
When it comes to tank installation, we receive many questions, and we are here to help answer them. One question we get asked quite often is: Can I bury a tank, and if so, how far can it be buried?
In this blog post, we will provide some handy tips on how best to install a tank if you are considering burying it.
What Orion Australia Recommend
We recommend burying a tank no deeper than a depth of a quarter of its height. When doing so, consider the water flow to the collection tank, ensuring that the top of the tank sits below the level of the eaves if collecting from a shed or house.
Having a substantial base prepared is crucial. A 75-100mm thick base of fine crushed rock is ideal, please ensure it is level and compacted down prior to placing your tank.
Additional Things to Consider Before Digging
- Remember to include the depth of the prepared base when calculating the hole depth for the tank.
- Allow enough space around the tank to access fittings and valves that you may install. A width of around 400-500mm should be sufficient.
- Consider digging in an ag drain to divert ground water away from the tank, as the area around the tank has may fill up with water.
- If unsure of any underground services, we recommend contacting Before You Dig Australia
Ensuring the Longevity of Your Tank
Once the tank is level on the compacted base and it comes time to backfill the hole, fill the tank with water to at least the level of the ground around it. Back fill with a fine crushed rock or another material that will not compact. Soil or rubble may cause the wall of the tank to invert if there is no pressure from inside the tank.
If you would like to know more details about burying your rainwater tank, check out or latest demo video in our Learning Centre. Alternatively, reach out to us on our contact page if you need advice on tank installation. We are here to provide solutions.
