In this post, we will discuss the concept of water cisterns, including their types, differences from water tanks, and how they function. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of what a cistern is and how it works in various settings.
What is a Water Cistern?
A water cistern is a container used to collect, store, and distribute water. Cisterns are typically made from materials such as concrete, plastic, or metal and can vary in size from small, domestic units to large, municipal systems. They are commonly used to harvest rainwater, store well water, or hold water for emergency use.
What is the Difference Between a Cistern and a Water Tank?
The terms “cistern” and “water tank” are often used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences:
- Purpose: A cistern is primarily designed for collecting and storing rainwater or groundwater, while a water tank can be used for a variety of purposes, including holding water from a municipal supply.
- Design: Cisterns are often integrated into buildings or underground, whereas water tanks are usually above ground and more focused on water distribution rather than collection.
- Usage: Cisterns are frequently used in areas where water supply is limited, whereas water tanks can be found in both urban and rural settings for various uses, including firefighting, irrigation, and drinking water.
What are the Types of Cisterns?
Cisterns come in several types based on their design and function:
- Rainwater Cisterns: Collect and store rainwater from rooftops or other catchment areas.
- Underground Cisterns: Installed below ground to save space and keep water cool.
- Above-Ground Cisterns: Positioned on the surface, often used for rainwater collection or emergency water storage.
- Septic Cisterns: Part of a septic system, used to collect and treat wastewater before it is discharged.
How Does a Cistern System Work?
A cistern system typically operates through the following steps:
- Collection: Water is collected from various sources, such as rainfall or groundwater, and directed into the cistern.
- Storage: The water is stored in the cistern until it is needed. The cistern may have a filtration system to remove debris.
- Distribution: When water is required, it is pumped from the cistern to where it is needed, such as a home or irrigation system.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance is required to ensure the cistern remains clean and functional, including cleaning the tank and checking the filtration system.
What is a Home Cistern?
A home cistern is a smaller-scale cistern designed for residential use. It is typically used to collect and store rainwater or groundwater for various household purposes, including irrigation, flushing toilets, and sometimes even drinking water. Home cisterns can be installed underground or above ground and are often equipped with filtration systems to ensure the water remains clean and usable.
We hope this article helped you learn about water cisterns and their various aspects.
