Water is essential for life, but it is also a scarce and precious resource in many parts of the world. Karachi, the largest and most populous city in Pakistan, is facing a severe water crisis that affects millions of people every day. According to a report by the World Bank, Karachi needs about 1,200 million gallons of water per day, but it only receives about 550 million gallons from various sources. This means that there is a huge gap between the demand and supply of water in the city, which leads to frequent water shortages, rationing, and outages.

One of the ways to cope with this challenge is to store water in overhead tanks that can provide a reliable and cost-efficient water supply for homes and businesses. Overhead water tanks are containers that are installed above the ground level, usually on rooftops or elevated structures, to store water for domestic or commercial use. They can be made of different materials, such as concrete, plastic, or stainless steel, and they can vary in size and capacity depending on the needs and preferences of the users.

The purpose of this article is to explore the benefits of overhead water tanks for homes and businesses in Karachi, as well as to provide some tips on how to choose, install, and maintain them. By the end of this article, you will learn why overhead water tanks are a smart and sustainable solution for your water needs in Karachi.

Benefits of Overhead Water Tanks

There are many advantages of using overhead water tanks for your home or business in Karachi. Here are some of the main benefits that you can enjoy:

Reliable Water Supply

One of the most obvious benefits of overhead water tanks is that they can provide consistent and uninterrupted water availability for your household or workplace. Unlike the municipal water supply, which is often erratic and unreliable, overhead water tanks can store enough water to meet your daily needs without depending on external sources. You can use the stored water for drinking, cooking, washing, cleaning, gardening, or any other purpose that you require.

Another benefit of overhead water tanks is that they can help you mitigate the effects of water shortages and outages that are common in Karachi. According to a survey by Gallup Pakistan, 84% of Karachiites face water shortages at least once a week, while 40% face them daily. Moreover, 62% of Karachiites have experienced water outages lasting more than six hours in the past month. These situations can cause a lot of inconvenience and stress for the residents and businesses of Karachi, who have to resort to alternative and expensive ways of getting water, such as buying tanker water or bottled water.

By having an overhead water tank, you can avoid these problems and ensure that you always have access to clean and safe water whenever you need it. You can also save money by reducing your dependence on tanker water or bottled water, which can be very costly and sometimes contaminated.

Cost-Efficiency

Another benefit of overhead water tanks is that they can help you save money on your water bills. According to the Karachi Water and Sewerage Board (KWSB), the average tariff for domestic consumers in Karachi is Rs. 333 per 1,000 gallons. However, this rate does not reflect the actual cost of providing water to the consumers, as the KWSB is heavily subsidized by the government. In fact, the KWSB estimates that it spends about Rs. 1,200 per 1,000 gallons to produce and distribute water in Karachi. This means that there is a huge gap between the revenue and expenditure of the KWSB, which results in poor service delivery and financial losses.

By using an overhead water tank, you can reduce your consumption of municipal water and lower your water bills. You can also take advantage of rainwater harvesting, which is the process of collecting and storing rainwater for later use. Rainwater harvesting can help you conserve water and reduce your dependence on external sources. According to a study by NED University of Engineering and Technology, Karachi has an annual rainfall potential of about 142 million gallons per square kilometer. This means that if you have a rooftop area of 100 square meters, you can collect about 54,000 liters of rainwater per year. You can use this rainwater for various purposes, such as flushing toilets, washing clothes, watering plants, or even drinking after proper treatment.

Environmental Impact

Another benefit of overhead water tanks is that they can have a positive impact on the environment by reducing water waste and promoting sustainability and conservation. According to a report by the Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources (PCRWR), Pakistan is one of the most water-stressed countries in the world, with a per capita water availability of only 908 cubic meters, which is below the threshold of 1,000 cubic meters. Moreover, Pakistan has a very low water use efficiency, with about 50% of water losses in the urban sector and 60% in the agricultural sector. These factors contribute to the depletion and degradation of the country’s water resources, which pose a serious threat to the environment and human health.

By using an overhead water tank, you can reduce your water waste and improve your water use efficiency. You can also contribute to the preservation and protection of the environment by using rainwater harvesting, which can help you reduce your carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions. According to a study by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), rainwater harvesting can save about 0.6 kilograms of carbon dioxide per cubic meter of water compared to conventional water supply systems. This means that if you use 100 liters of rainwater per day, you can save about 22 kilograms of carbon dioxide per year.

Emergency Preparedness

Another benefit of overhead water tanks is that they can help you prepare for emergencies and disasters that may disrupt your water supply. Karachi is vulnerable to various natural and man-made hazards, such as floods, earthquakes, fires, riots, strikes, or terrorist attacks, that can affect the availability and quality of water in the city. For instance, in August 2020, Karachi experienced heavy rainfall that caused severe flooding and damage to the city’s infrastructure, including its water supply system. Many areas of Karachi were left without water for days or weeks, forcing people to rely on tanker water or bottled water.

By having an overhead water tank, you can ensure that you have enough water stored for emergency situations. You can also use your overhead water tank as a source of fire-fighting water in case of a fire outbreak in your home or business. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the minimum fire flow requirement for residential buildings is 500 gallons per minute for two hours. This means that if you have an overhead water tank with a capacity of 10,000 liters, you can provide enough fire-fighting water for about 40 minutes.

Types of Overhead Water Tanks

There are different types of overhead water tanks that you can choose from depending on your needs and preferences. Here are some of the main types that are available in the market:

Material Options

One of the factors that you need to consider when choosing an overhead water tank is the material that it is made of. There are three common material options that you can choose from: concrete, plastic, or stainless steel.

Concrete Tanks: Concrete tanks are made of reinforced concrete that is poured into a mold and cured. Concrete tanks are durable and strong, and they can withstand harsh weather conditions and high temperatures. They are also resistant to corrosion and rust, and they do not leach any chemicals or contaminants into the water. However, concrete tanks are also heavy and bulky, and they require a strong foundation and support structure to hold them. They are also difficult to transport and install, and they may crack or leak over time.
Plastic Tanks: Plastic tanks are made of polyethylene or polypropylene that is molded into various shapes and sizes. Plastic tanks are lightweight and easy to transport and install, and they do not require any foundation or support structure. They are also flexible and resilient, and they can adapt to changes in temperature and pressure. However, plastic tanks are also prone to fading and cracking due to exposure to sunlight and heat. They are also susceptible to algae growth and bacterial contamination if not cleaned regularly. Moreover, plastic tanks may leach harmful chemicals or toxins into the water if they are not made of food-grade material.
Stainless Steel Tanks: Stainless steel tanks are made of steel alloy that contains chromium and nickel that give it corrosion resistance and strength. Stainless steel tanks are durable and sturdy, and they can last for a long time without rusting or deteriorating. They are also hygienic and safe, as they do not leach any chemicals or contaminants into the water. However, stainless steel tanks are also expensive and heavy, and they require skilled labor and equipment to install them. They are also sensitive to chlorine and saltwater, which may cause pitting or corrosion.

Size and Capacity

Another factor that you need to consider when choosing an overhead water tank is the size and capacity that it has. The size and capacity of your overhead water tank depend on your water consumption and storage needs. You need to calculate how much water you use on average per day for various purposes, such as drinking, cooking, washing, cleaning, etc., as well as how much water you want to store for emergency situations.

The size and capacity of overhead water tanks vary depending on their type and design. Generally speaking, there are three categories of overhead water tanks based on their size and capacity:

Residential Tanks: Residential tanks are designed for domestic use in homes and apartments. They are usually smaller and have a capacity of 500 to 5,000 liters. They can be installed on rooftops, balconies, terraces, or gardens. They can provide water for drinking, cooking, washing, cleaning, and other household purposes. Residential tanks are usually made of plastic or stainless steel, as they are cheaper and easier to install and maintain.
Commercial Tanks: Commercial tanks are designed for business use in offices, shops, restaurants, hotels, schools, hospitals, and other establishments. They are usually larger and have a capacity of 10,000 to 100,000 liters. They can be installed on rooftops, ground levels, or elevated structures. They can provide water for various commercial purposes, such as sanitation, hygiene, cooling, heating, fire-fighting, and irrigation. Commercial tanks are usually made of concrete or stainless steel, as they are more durable and sturdy.
Industrial Tanks: Industrial tanks are designed for industrial use in factories, warehouses, plants, and other facilities. They are usually the largest and have a capacity of 100,000 to 1,000,000 liters. They can be installed on ground levels or elevated structures. They can provide water for various industrial purposes, such as processing, manufacturing, power generation, and chemical treatment. Industrial tanks are usually made of concrete or stainless steel, as they are more resistant to corrosion and pressure.

Installation Options

Another factor that you need to consider when choosing an overhead water tank is the installation option that suits your needs and preferences. There are three common installation options that you can choose from elevated tanks, ground-level tanks, or roof-integrated tanks.

Elevated Tanks: Elevated tanks are installed on top of a tower or a stand that raises them above the ground level. Elevated tanks have the advantage of providing a higher water pressure and flow rate due to gravity. They also have the advantage of being visible and accessible for inspection and maintenance. However, elevated tanks also have the disadvantage of being more expensive and complex to install and maintain. They also require more space and a stronger foundation and support structure to hold them.
Ground-Level Tanks: Ground-level tanks are installed on the ground or slightly above it. Ground-level tanks have the advantage of being cheaper and simpler to install and maintain. They also require less space and a weaker foundation and support structure to hold them. However, ground-level tanks also have the disadvantage of providing a lower water pressure and flow rate due to friction. They also have the disadvantage of being less visible and accessible for inspection and maintenance.
Roof-Integrated Tanks: Roof-integrated tanks are installed on the roof or within the roof structure of a building. Roof-integrated tanks have the advantage of being aesthetically pleasing and space-saving. They also have the advantage of being more secure and protected from vandalism and theft. However, roof-integrated tanks also have the disadvantage of being more difficult and risky to install and maintain. They also require careful design and planning to ensure that they do not damage or leak into the roof structure.

Choosing the Right Overhead Water Tank

Choosing the right overhead water tank for your home or business in Karachi is not an easy task. You need to consider various factors that may affect your decision, such as your needs, budget, maintenance requirements, and local regulations and guidelines. Here are some tips on how to choose the right overhead water tank for you:

Consideration of Needs

The first thing that you need to do when choosing an overhead water tank is to assess your needs and preferences. You need to ask yourself some questions such as:

How much water do you use on average per day for various purposes?
How much water do you want to store for emergency situations?
What type of water do you want to store in your overhead water tank? Is it rainwater, municipal water, groundwater, or tanker water?
Where do you want to install your overhead water tank? Is it on your rooftop, ground-level, or elevated structure?
What material do you prefer for your overhead water tank? Is it concrete, plastic, or stainless steel?

By answering these questions, you can narrow down your options and choose the overhead water tank that best suits your needs.

Budgetary Constraints

The second thing that you need to do when choosing an overhead water tank is to consider your budgetary constraints. You need to ask yourself some questions such as:

How much money can you afford to spend on buying an overhead water tank?
How much money can you afford to spend on installing an overhead water tank?
How much money can you afford to spend on maintaining an overhead water tank?

By answering these questions, you can determine your budget and choose the overhead water tank that fits your financial capacity.

Maintenance Requirements

The third thing that you need to do when choosing an overhead water tank is to consider your maintenance requirements. You need to ask yourself some questions such as:

How often do you need to clean and sanitize your overhead water tank?
How often do you need to inspect and repair your overhead water tank?
How often do you need to replace or upgrade your overhead water tank?

By answering these questions, you can estimate your maintenance costs and choose the overhead water tank that has the lowest maintenance requirements.

Local Regulations and Guidelines

The fourth thing that you need to do when choosing an overhead water tank is to consider your local regulations and guidelines. You need to ask yourself some questions such as:

What are the legal and technical requirements for installing an overhead water tank in your area?
What are the safety and environmental standards for using an overhead water tank in your area?
What are the permits and approvals that you need to obtain before installing an overhead water tank in your area?

By answering these questions, you can ensure that you comply with the local regulations and guidelines and avoid any legal or technical issues when installing an overhead water tank in your area.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

After choosing the right overhead water tank for your home or business in Karachi, you need to install and maintain it properly to ensure its optimal performance and longevity. Here are some tips on how to install and maintain your overhead water tank:

Proper Installation Process

The first tip is to follow a proper installation process when installing your overhead water tank. You need to do the following steps:

Choose a suitable location for your overhead water tank that has enough space, sunlight, ventilation, and accessibility.
Prepare a strong foundation and support structure for your overhead water tank that can bear its weight and pressure.
Hire a professional and experienced contractor or plumber who can install your overhead water tank safely and securely.
Connect your overhead water tank to the water source, such as a rainwater harvesting system, municipal water supply, groundwater pump, or tanker water delivery.
Install a filter, a valve, a tap, and a meter on your overhead water tank to control the water quality, flow, and consumption.
Test your overhead water tank for any leaks, cracks, or defects before using it.

Routine Maintenance Practices

The second tip is to follow routine maintenance practices when maintaining your overhead water tank. You need to do the following tasks:

Clean and sanitize your overhead water tank at least once every six months to remove any dirt, debris, algae, bacteria, or contaminants that may accumulate in it.
Inspect and repair your overhead water tank at least once every year to check for any damages, corrosion, or wear and tear that may affect its functionality or durability.
Replace or upgrade your overhead water tank at least once every 10 years to keep up with the latest technology and standards that may improve its efficiency or safety.

Cleaning and Sanitization

The third tip is to follow a proper cleaning and sanitization procedure when cleaning your overhead water tank. You need to do the following steps:

Drain all the water from your overhead water tank and disconnect it from the water source.
Scrub the inside walls and floor of your overhead water tank with a brush or a sponge and a mild detergent or bleach solution.
Rinse the inside of your overhead water tank with clean water several times until no residue or odor remains.
Disinfect the inside of your overhead water tank with chlorine or iodine solution according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Refill your overhead water tank with clean water and reconnect it to the water source.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

The fourth tip is to troubleshoot common issues that may arise when using your overhead water tank. You need to do the following actions:

If you notice any leaks, cracks, or defects in your overhead water tank, you need to seal them with epoxy resin or silicone sealant or replace them with new parts as soon as possible.
If you notice any low water pressure or flow rate from your overhead water tank, you need to check for any blockages, clogs, or airlocks in the pipes, valves, taps, or filters and clear them with a plunger or a wire hanger or replace them with new ones as soon as possible.
If you notice any poor water quality or taste from your overhead water tank, you need to check for any contamination, pollution, or stagnation in the water source, filter, valve, tap, or meter and clean them with vinegar or baking soda solution or replace them with new ones as soon as possible.

Case Studies

To illustrate the benefits of overhead water tanks for homes and businesses in Karachi, here are some case studies of successful implementations in Karachi homes and businesses:

Successful Implementations in Karachi Homes

One of the examples of successful implementations in Karachi homes is the case of Mr. Ahmed, who lives in a three-bedroom apartment in Gulshan-e-Iqbal. Mr. Ahmed installed a 1,000-liter plastic overhead water tank on his rooftop to store rainwater that he collects from his terrace. He uses the rainwater for flushing toilets, washing clothes, watering plants, and cleaning floors. He says that he has saved about 30% on his water bills and reduced his dependence on tanker water since he installed the overhead water tank.

Another example of successful implementations in Karachi homes is the case of Mrs. Fatima, who lives in a two-bedroom house in North Nazimabad. Mrs. Fatima installed a 2,000-liter stainless steel overhead water tank on her ground-level to store municipal water that she receives from the KWSB. She uses the municipal water for drinking, cooking, washing dishes, and bathing. She says that she has improved her water availability and quality since she installed the overhead water tank.

Overhead Water Tanks in Karachi Businesses

One of the examples of overhead water tanks in Karachi businesses is the case of ABC School, which is a private school in Clifton. ABC School installed a 50,000-liter concrete overhead water tank on an elevated structure to store groundwater that they pump from a borehole. They use the groundwater for sanitation, hygiene, cooling, heating, and irrigation. They say that they have increased their water supply and security since they installed the overhead water tank.

Another example of overhead water tanks in Karachi businesses is the case of M/S. AD & Sons Factory, which is a textile factory in Korangi. M/S. AD & Sons installed a 100,000-liter stainless steel overhead water tank on the ground level to store tanker water that they buy from private suppliers. They use the tanker water for processing, manufacturing, power generation, and chemical treatment. They say that they have reduced their water costs and waste since they installed the overhead water tank.

Conclusion

In conclusion, overhead water tanks are a smart and sustainable solution for your water needs in Karachi. They can provide you with a reliable and cost-efficient water supply for your home or business. They can also have a positive impact on the environment by reducing water waste and promoting sustainability and conservation. They can also help you prepare for emergencies and disasters that may disrupt your water supply.

However, choosing the right overhead water tank for your home or business in Karachi is not an easy task. You need to consider various factors that may affect your decision, such as your needs, budget, maintenance requirements, and local regulations and guidelines. You also need to install and maintain your overhead water tank properly to ensure its optimal performance and longevity.

We hope that this article has helped you understand the benefits of overhead water tanks for homes and businesses in Karachi, as well as how to choose, install, and maintain them. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact us.

The Benefits of Overhead Water Tanks for Homes and Businesses in Karachi