What are the types of water tanks for your water storage? And how are they used? Let’s dive into the world of water tanks!
Ever wondered the best way to store your water? Well, water storage may not be as simple as you think, sure it is just a huge tank filled with water.
But, on top of that, there are specific tanks that are better to handle specific types of water than the others.
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For example, you might not want to store water for your drinking purpose in the tanks or containers that could make your water unsafe for consumption.
So, what are the types of water tanks out there? And what are they used for? Let’s get in to it!
Table of Contents
Types of Water Tanks

1. Underground Fiberglass Tanks
The first one is the underground fiberglass tanks, these are the tanks that made from a non-corrosive materials.
Made from fiberglass, which is a composite material consisting of polyester resin reinforced with woven fiberglass filaments, these types of tanks are specifically designed for underground storage .
And because it is placed underground, the underground fiberglass tanks are quite useful to store a large amount of water without sacrificing space above the ground.
This type of water storage tank is usually used for potable water, wastewater and also storm water.
Pros
- Corrosion resistance
- Strength
- Leak resistance
- Long lifespan
- Lightweight
Cons
- Cost
- Size limitations
- Easily damaged
2. Carbon Welded Steel Tanks
The next one is the carbon welded steel tanks that are made of carbon welded steel that are strong and durable.
This type of water tank is widely used across industries for storing a variety of liquids and materials.
But, before you buy a carbon welded steel tank, make sure you get the right interior coating for the purpose you plan to use it for.
Pros
- Strength and Durability
- Cost-Effective
- Customizable
- Relatively easy to repair
Cons
- Susceptible to Corrosion
- Need a regular maintenance
Also Read: “Tankless vs. Tank Water Heater“
3. Pillow Tanks
The pillow tank is one of the most versatile tanks that can be used to hold a lot of water on-the-go.
And hence the name, they’re shaped like a pillow and can be filled with water up to 500-20.000 gallons (1.900-76.000 liters).
Pros
- Portability
- Scalability
- Durable
- Relatively cheaper
- Flexibility
Cons
- Can be easily punctured
- Susceptible to UV
- Not suitable for highly pressurized applications
4. Folding Tanks
Also known as folding frame tanks, these types of water tanks are essentially portable water tanks with a collapsible frame.
These tanks are easy to setup and are great where it’s difficult to keep the water supply.
Another benefit of folding tanks is that it’s easy to transport in almost any type of area because they can collapse to be much smaller tanks.
Pros
- Durability
- Collapsible frame
- Open top design for easing cleaning and filling
- Quick deployment
- Relatively cheaper
Cons
- Not for permanent use
- Can be easily punctured
5. Bolted Steel Tanks
Bolted steel tanks are a type of storage tank constructed from prefabricated steel panels that are fastened together with bolts, rather than welding.
They usually used to store a large amount of water, and we’re talking millions of gallons of water.
And not only water, the water tight characteristics of the bolted steel tanks can be used for storing several different liquids, such as oil and fuel or industrial process liquids.
Pros
- Cost effective
- Quick assembly
- Modular design
- Easy to transport
- Good durability
Cons
- Potential leaking
- Not suitable for high pressure application
- Prone to corrosion
6. Polyethylene Tanks
As its name implies, polyethylene tanks are storage containers made from a type of plastic called High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE).
The HDPI itself is known for its durability, strength and resistance to corrosion, thus making it a proper choice for storing water and other varieties of liquid.
These tanks also usually have a cheaper price, and are most commonly used as rainwater collection devices.
Pros
- Leak resistance
- Lightweight
- Cheaper
- Low maintenance
- Corrosion-proof
- Food grade
- Durable
Cons
- Sensitive to temperature
- Prone to UV degradation
7. Corrugated Steel Tank
Number 7 on our list of types of water tanks is the corrugated steel tanks. These tanks are a large storage tank made of corrugated steel sheets.
With a great durability, these tanks are a great alternative to concrete if you don’t want to go that route.
These tanks also have a wide variety of sizes that can hold from a few hundred gallons to a couple million gallons.
Pros
- Cheaper
- Durable
- Easy assembly
- Wide variety of sizes
- Can be disassembled and relocated
Cons
- Prone to dents
- Need a proper maintenance
8. Above Ground Fiberglass Storage Tanks
The above ground fiberglass storage tanks are usually used for storing caustic water. This includes waste, potable, or rainwater.
Pros
- Rust-proof
- Durable
- Leak resistance
- Lightweight
- Long lifespan
- Low maintenance
Cons
- Can be a little bit more expensive
- Prone to punctures
- Temperature sensitivity
9. Stainless Water Tanks
Another adaptable choice for water storage is a water storage tank made of stainless steel. However, water isn’t the only use for them.
Stainless steel makes an excellent storage container for a variety of sectors, including dairy, chocolate, winemaking, and brewing.
Pros
- Rust-proof
- Durable
- Hygiene
- Long lifespan
- Versatile
Cons
- Cost
- Weight
- Prone to dents
There you go the 9 types of water tanks to choose along with its pros and cons for your consideration.
But, do you know that water tanks are one of many products that needed an SNI certificate before being sold and distributed in Indonesia?
The SNI certification is a type of approval that consists of a series of regulations to ensure that every products or services in Indonesia are within Indonesian standards.
This includes the tanks that used to store water. There are a lot of benefits of gaining an SNI certificate especially for business owners as it can be used as a marketing tool to promote the safety and quality of your product in the Indonesian market.
This can be also used to gain the trust and loyalty from a lot of consumers in Indonesia.











