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Poly Tanks | Aboveground vs Underground Water Tanks

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Pros and Cons of Aboveground and Underground Water Tanks

This Poly Tanks Series post provides a short collection of common pros and cons comparing polyethylene plastic aboveground water tanks versus underground water tanks. Both water tank types offer different benefits and disadvantages to consider depending on the selected use. Review the following points to determine whether an aboveground or underground water tank may be best for your application.

Aboveground Water Tanks

Pros

  • Installing is easy and low cost
  • Installation can often be DIY
  • Easy to clean, when needed
  • Access is easy for maintenance and adjustments
  • Can be easy to relocate
  • Tank and system easy to upgrade or add on to
  • Tend to be cheaper
  • Many types and style options to choose from

Cons

  • Water temperature can fluctuate throughout the day and season
  • Stored water can be susceptible to freezing
  • May require extra maintenance or work for winter
  • Affected by sunlight heating and ambient temperatures
  • Can be susceptible to growing algae
  • Can be a visually unappealing property addition, to some
  • Requires aboveground property space
  • Can be damaged by accidental heavy impacts and punctures

Underground Water Tanks

Pros

  • Maintains a near constant water temperature year-round
  • Stored water not likely susceptible to freezing
  • Extra maintenance or work not usually needed for winter
  • Not affected by sunlight heating and air temperature
  • Not susceptible to growing algae
  • Does not occupy aboveground property space
  • Underground burial means cisterns are not visually seen
  • Aboveground installation area can be used for something else, serving a dual purpose

Cons

  • Installing is more work intensive and costs more
  • Installation often needs performed by a professional
  • Requires tank risers or unearthing for access
  • Difficult to access for cleaning, maintenance, or adjustments
  • Plumbing adjustments or repairs require unearthing
  • Can be damaged by accidental drive overs by vehicles or heavy equipment
  • Upgrading or adding on to the tank or system can be difficult, costly, and/or time consuming
  • Relocating is difficult and requires unearthing

Takeaway | Aboveground vs Underground Water Tanks

After reviewing the pros and cons between aboveground and underground water tanks, each tank type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages which may or may not be relevant depending on the planned water tank use.

To check out the aboveground water tanks we have available for sale, you can find them here, and our underground water tanks can be found here.

If you have further questions or would like assistance in picking the perfect water tank, contact our professional support team, we are always ready to help.