Installing a Cistern for Drinking Water – The Ultimate Guide

Installing a cistern for drinking water is an essential step for creating a water storage solution, especially for those looking for a off-grid living. It can be utilized for various purposes, including drinking, irrigation, and household use.

We will walk you through everything you need to know about building a cistern, installing a cistern for drinking water, and maintaining a roof water filter system.

A cistern is a waterproof receptacle designed to catch and store rainwater.

Cisterns have been used for centuries, but it still can be an excellent solution for water conservation today.

They were commonly used years ago, in areas where water is scarce or where the municipal water supply is limited, but today its use means a lot more, which is being free from the grid.

Since water is essential, a cistern is a must if you want to live off-grid in the future. And if you wanna know more about essential products to live off the grid, here’s one article that tells you that.

A basic cistern system can cost between $3,000 and $7,000, on average.

But we found small cisterns for starters that can cost as little as 85 bucks. Here

Larger or more complex systems can cost upwards of $10,000. Remember, part of the budget for ongoing maintenance has to be considered on costs as well.

If you’re not willing to pay for all that, here’s a list of other cisterns for beginners you might like.

If attached to a really good filter, most of the time, yes. When properly installed and maintained, a cistern can provide safe drinking water.

The safety of water from a cistern depends on several factors, including the materials used in the construction of the cistern, the quality of the roof water filter system, and the regularity of maintenance. Key considerations include:

• Roof Water Filter System: A good filter system is essential to remove debris, dirt, and contaminants from rainwater before it enters the cistern.
• Regular Maintenance: Cleaning the cistern and filter system regularly to prevent the build up of harmful bacteria and contaminants.
• Water Testing: Periodic testing of the water quality to ensure it meets safe drinking standards.

Building a cistern requires several key materials, including:

• Plastic tank (can also cuild one with concrete, will be harder);
• Roofing material for the catchment area;
• Gutters and downpipes;
• Roof water filter system;
• Pipes and fittings;
• Pump (if needed).

1. Site Selection: Choose a location that is level and close to the catchment area (roof).
2. Excavation and Foundation: Excavate the site and lay a solid foundation.
3. Tank Installation: Install the tank, ensuring it is level and secure.
4. Gutter and Downspout Installation: Attach gutters and downspouts to the roof to channel water into the cistern.
5. Filter System Installation: Install the roof water filter system to purify the water before it enters the cistern.
6. Plumbing Connections: Connect the tank to your water distribution system.

To ensure the safety of drinking water cistern systems, certain measures must be taken:

• Use food-grade materials for the cistern and pipes to prevent contamination.
• Install a high-quality roof water filter system to eliminate contaminants.
• Implement a UV light system or chlorination for additional disinfection.

1. Preparation: Assess your water needs and select the appropriate cistern size.
2. Site Preparation: Prepare the site by leveling the ground and laying a strong foundation.
3. Tank Installation: Place the cistern tank securely on the foundation.
4. Roof Water Filter System Installation: Install the filter system to clean the water before it enters the tank.
5. Plumbing Connections: Connect the cistern to your water distribution system, to ensure all pipes and fittings are secure.
6. System Testing: Test the entire system to ensure it is functioning correctly and that there are no leaks.

It can remain usable for several months if the cistern is well-maintained and the water is treated. But I would recommend refilling it every week, with new water.

The longevity of water in a cistern depends on various factors, including the quality of the initial water, the material of the cistern tank, and how well the system is maintained.

Regular checks and treatments are necessary to prevent the growth of algae and bacteria.

No, its going to be cheaper to buy a common house and install the cistern yourself. However, if you still want to do it, it is important to:

• Inspect the Cistern: Ensure the cistern is in good condition and has been well-maintained.
• Check Water Quality: Test the water to ensure it meets safety standards.
• Evaluate Maintenance Requirements: Understand the maintenance needs and costs associated with the cistern system.

For those wanting to explore big projects with cisterns, it’s wise to start simple and with small steps, such as buying some cistern tanks on Amazon (we provided a list in the article).

After gaining some experience, you can consider larger cistern projects for the whole house.