Water is one of the most essential resources for any household, yet many homeowners are looking for ways to reduce their dependence on municipal water supplies.

Whether it's for environmental conservation, emergency preparedness, or cutting down on utility costs, alternative water storage solutions are gaining traction. 

One such solution that has been used for centuries and continues to be a practical choice today is the cistern tank.

A cistern tank is a watertight container designed to collect and store water, often rainwater, for various uses such as irrigation, flushing toilets, and more. Typically installed underground or above-ground, cisterns are a sustainable solution for water conservation and emergency supply.

But what exactly are they, and how do they work? 

Let's dive deeper into the world of cistern tanks and explore why they might be the right solution for your property.

What Is a Cistern Tank?

A cistern tank is a watertight container designed to collect and store water, typically rainwater, for various uses such as irrigation, flushing toilets, and emergency water supply. Unlike a well, which taps into underground water sources, a cistern serves as a storage system for externally collected water.

Cisterns date back thousands of years, with ancient civilizations like the Romans using them to harvest rainwater for drinking, bathing, and irrigation. Today, modern cisterns are made from materials like polyethylene, fiberglass, or concrete, and are used in off-grid homes, farms, and even urban rainwater collection systems to reduce reliance on municipal water.

Whether installed above or below ground, cisterns provide a sustainable and cost-effective way to manage water resources, making them a valuable solution for homeowners looking to conserve water and cut costs.

Components of a Cistern Tank

A cistern tank is more than just a storage container—it’s part of a water harvesting system designed to efficiently collect, store, and distribute water. To ensure clean and reliable water storage, several key components work together:

• Fill Pipe with Debris Filters – Water enters the cistern through a fill pipe, typically connected to a roof’s downspout. Mesh screens or first-flush diverters filter out leaves, dirt, and other contaminants before the water reaches the tank.

• Storage Tank – The main reservoir, made from polyethylene, fiberglass, concrete, or steel, is designed to keep water cool and protected from light, preventing algae growth.

• Manhole for Access – A sealed access hatch allows for periodic maintenance, inspections, and cleaning.

• Water Pump for Pressurization – If gravity flow isn’t an option, a pump is used to deliver water to household fixtures, irrigation systems, or other points of use.

• Overflow Pipe – Prevents flooding and structural damage by redirecting excess water away from foundations.

• Withdrawal Pipe – Extracts clean water from just above the sediment layer, ensuring minimal contamination.

When it rains, water flows from the roof into gutters, through the fill pipe, and into the cistern, where it’s stored for future use. With proper filtration and maintenance, this system provides a sustainable and efficient way to harness rainwater.

Why Use a Cistern on Your Property?

A cistern tank is a smart investment for homeowners looking to save water, lower utility costs, and prepare for droughts. By capturing and storing rainwater, cisterns provide a reliable backup supply during dry seasons or water restrictions, ensuring access to water when it’s needed most.

Let’s look past emergency preparedness.

Cisterns significantly reduce water bills by supplying non-potable water for irrigation, toilet flushing, and laundry. Instead of relying solely on municipal water, homeowners can reuse rainwater for everyday tasks, cutting down on consumption and costs.

From an environmental perspective, cisterns help reduce stormwater runoff, which can prevent flooding and minimize pollution in local waterways. By conserving municipal water supplies, they also ease the strain on public infrastructure, making them an eco-friendly solution for sustainable water management.

Whether for financial savings, resilience, or environmental impact, a cistern is a valuable addition to any property.

Who Should Consider Using a Cistern?

Who can get the most benefit from cisterns?

They are especially useful in drought-prone regions where water restrictions can limit access to municipal supplies. By storing rainwater during wet seasons, homeowners ensure they have a backup supply when water becomes scarce.

For rural residents without municipal water access, a cistern can be a primary water source, reducing dependence on expensive trucked-in water or unreliable wells. Those with low-yield wells can also use a cistern to supplement their supply, ensuring a more consistent and reliable flow of water.

Environmentally conscious homeowners who want to reduce their footprint can benefit from a cistern by conserving municipal water and reducing stormwater runoff. Whether for sustainability, cost savings, or self-sufficiency, a cistern is an excellent choice for those looking to take control of their water use.

Pros and Cons of Installing a Cistern

Is It Risky to Install a Cistern?

Are you worried about the risks of installing a cistern? 

Know that it’s a little bit of work. Poor maintenance can lead to contamination, especially if debris, bacteria, or algae develop in the tank. Translucent above-ground cisterns are particularly prone to algae growth due to sunlight exposure, but this can be mitigated by using opaque materials or UV-blocking covers.

In cold climates, water in cisterns can freeze, potentially damaging pipes and pumps. Installing the tank underground or adding insulation to above-ground models helps prevent freezing issues.

Another concern is local regulations—some areas restrict or regulate rainwater harvesting. Always check local laws before installing a system.

For those considering installation, a DIY setup may work for small-scale systems, but professional installation is recommended for larger, complex setups to ensure proper filtration, plumbing, and compliance with regulations. With the right precautions, a cistern can be a safe and effective water solution.

Uses for Rainwater Collected by Cisterns

Rainwater collected in a cistern can be used for a variety of practical applications, reducing reliance on municipal water and lowering utility bills.

• Irrigation for Landscaping or Agriculture – Cistern water is ideal for watering gardens, lawns, and crops, providing a sustainable water source for outdoor use.

• Flushing Toilets and Washing Laundry – Non-potable rainwater can safely be used for toilet flushing and laundry, significantly cutting household water consumption.

• Emergency Backup Supply – During municipal water disruptions or droughts, a cistern provides a reliable reserve for essential household tasks.

Important Note: Cistern water must be properly treated before being used for drinking or cooking. The CDC recommends disinfection methods such as filtration, chlorination, or UV treatment to ensure safe, potable water.

Helpful Resource -> How To Make Cistern Water Drinkable

With the right filtration and treatment, rainwater harvesting can be a versatile and sustainable solution for homeowners.

Advice for Buying a Home with a Cistern

Buying a home with a cistern tank can be a great investment—or a potential headache. It all depends on the condition of the system and your willingness to maintain it.

Here’s when a cistern adds value:

• The tank is structurally sound, with no cracks, leaks, or heavy sediment buildup.

• Pumps, pipes, and filtration are functional, providing steady water flow.

• Maintenance records show regular cleaning, testing, and treatment.

• You live in an area with water shortages, making a backup water source a smart asset.

Now, when should you think twice?

• The cistern is damaged, neglected, or improperly installed.

• No filtration system—meaning you’ll need to invest in water treatment.

• Local water access is cheap and abundant, making rainwater storage unnecessary.

If the cistern checks out, you’re looking at a long-term water-saving advantage. If not, you might be signing up for costly repairs and frustration. 

Always get a professional inspection before committing!

Is A Cistern The Right Choice For You?

At the end of the day, a cistern isn’t just a water tank—it’s a smart investment in sustainability, self-sufficiency, and cost savings. Whether you're looking to cut your water bill, prepare for droughts, or simply make better use of what nature gives you, a cistern can be a game-changer. But like any system, it’s only as good as its maintenance.

If you're buying a home with a cistern, do your homework. If it’s well-maintained and fits your lifestyle, pull the trigger—you won’t regret it. If it’s in shambles, walk away or budget for repairs. Water is life, but bad water management is a liability.

At Aquabarrel, we’ve spent the last 20 years helping homeowners make rainwater work for them. Whether you need filtration solutions, downspout adapters, or expert advice, we’ve got you covered. Why let good water go to waste? Let’s make every drop count.