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What Size Cold Water Tank Do I Need? - Factors To Consider

The likes of Facilities Management professionals play a crucial role in maintaining and managing various aspects of a building or property. One essential component of this responsibility is ensuring a reliable and efficient cold water supply system. Selecting the right size cold water tank is a critical decision in this process. An undersized water tank can lead to frequent water shortages and inadequate fire protection, while an oversized tank may result in wasted space, higher installation costs and environmental inefficiency. In this blog post, we'll delve into the factors that influence your choice of cold water tank size and guide facilities managers in making informed decisions.


engineer building a water tank

Determining the Appropriate Water Tank Size


Choosing the right size cold water tank for your facility management needs involves considering several key factors:

  1. Water Demand: The most crucial factor in determining tank size is the water demand within your facility. Facilities with higher water consumption will require larger tanks to ensure a continuous supply during peak periods. Calculate your peak water demand by evaluating the number of fixtures, appliances and individuals that use your water simultaneously.

  2. Storage Capacity: Determine how much water storage capacity you need to maintain a sufficient supply in case of interruptions, maintenance or emergencies. A common rule of thumb is to have a minimum of one day's water supply in storage.

  3. Space Constraints: Evaluate the available space for installing the cold water tank. Tanks come in various shapes and sizes, so it's essential to choose one that fits comfortably within your facility's layout.

  4. Local Regulations: Check with your local authorities and building codes for any specific requirements regarding cold water tank sizes. Some regions may have regulations governing the minimum tank size based on the number of occupants in a building.

  5. Future Needs: Think about your future needs. If you plan to expand your facility or increase water usage for any reason, it's wise to choose a slightly larger tank to accommodate for these changes without having to replace the tank.


cold water tank

Calculating Cold Water Tank Size


Once you have gathered the necessary information, you can calculate the size of the cold water tank you need. Here's a simplified formula to help you get started:


Tank Size (in gallons) = Daily Water Usage (in gallons) + Safety Margin


The safety margin accounts for factors like peak demand and potential variations in water supply. It's typically recommended to add 20-30% to your daily water usage for this margin.


Need Assistance Determining Your Water Tank Size?


Remember, when your facility has the right-sized water tank, it guarantees a reliable water source even during peak demand periods, emergencies or maintenance shutdowns. Moreover, correctly sized water tanks contribute to cost savings by optimising water usage and reducing energy consumption. To make your life easier, you can rely on our experienced team to determine what water tank size you need. We operate through five UK project hubs with over 12 years of experience, meaning we can quickly and competently survey your prospective project. Head over to our water tank replacement page to learn more about our expertise in this area. We've supported some of the United Kingdoms leading Facilities Management & blue-chip companies with new water tank installations, so we know what it takes to get the job done right.


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