1,000-Gallon Storage Tank
The 1,000-Gallon Storage Tank provides 1,000 gallons of rainwater storage in a polyethylene container measuring 64" diameter x 62" tall. Priced between $500 and $900 ($0.50-$0.90 per gallon of capacity), this tank is a practical mid-range option for homeowners with dedicated irrigation or non-potable indoor needs.
About the 1,000-Gallon Storage Tank
A 1,000-gallon tank is the most popular size for dedicated rainwater harvesting systems. This capacity allows homeowners to store enough water for extensive garden irrigation, lawn watering, and supplemental non-potable household use. In a region receiving 40 inches of annual rainfall, a 1,500-square-foot roof can fill this tank about 22 times per year, providing over 22,000 gallons annually. The tank requires a sturdy, level foundation — a 4-inch concrete pad is ideal. Plumbing connections should include a calmed inlet (to reduce sediment disturbance), a floating suction filter for the outlet, an overflow pipe directed to a rain garden or storm drain, and a drain valve at the bottom for annual cleaning. Consider linking two 1,000-gallon tanks in series for 2,000 gallons of storage while keeping individual tank dimensions manageable.
Installation Guide
A 1,000-gallon tank requires more preparation than a simple rain barrel but is still within reach of experienced DIY homeowners. The most critical step is preparing a proper foundation. When full, this tank weighs approximately 8,340 pounds — that weight must be distributed evenly on a surface that will not shift or settle.
Pour a 4-inch concrete pad extending 6 inches beyond the tank footprint on all sides, or prepare a compacted gravel bed at least 6 inches deep. Ensure the pad is perfectly level using a builder's level. Connect downspouts to the tank inlet using schedule 40 PVC pipe, with a leaf screen or gutter guard at each collection point. Install a first-flush diverter to improve water quality by discarding the first gallon per 100 square feet of roof after each dry period.
Recommended Accessories
- First-flush diverter (1 gallon per 100 sq ft of roof)
- Calmed inlet to reduce sediment disturbance
- Tank-level gauge (float type or electronic)
- Submersible or external pump for pressurized delivery
- Overflow pipe routed to rain garden or storm drain
- Bottom drain valve for annual cleaning
Best Uses for the 1,000-Gallon Storage Tank
The 1,000-Gallon Storage Tank serves homeowners with dedicated vegetable gardens (500-2,000 sq ft), drip irrigation systems, lawn watering needs, and indoor non-potable applications like toilet flushing. At 1,000 gallons, it stores enough water to bridge typical dry periods of 1-3 weeks in most climates. This size is also popular for small livestock operations, greenhouse irrigation, and properties seeking to reduce their municipal water consumption by 30-50%.
States Where the 1,000-Gallon Storage Tank Is Recommended
Based on our calculations for a 1,500-square-foot asphalt shingle roof used for garden irrigation, the 1,000-Gallon Storage Tank is the recommended storage size in the following states:
- Arizona — 13.6" annual rainfall
- Colorado — 15.9" annual rainfall
- Montana — 15.3" annual rainfall
- Nevada — 9.5" annual rainfall
- New Mexico — 14.6" annual rainfall
- North Dakota — 17.8" annual rainfall
- Wyoming — 12.9" annual rainfall
Your actual recommended tank size depends on your specific roof area, material, intended uses, and household size. Use our calculator for a personalized recommendation.