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Products

Cisterns

Tanks-A-Lot has a rich history of manufacturing and supplying quality concrete water cisterns in Alberta since 1982. All our water cisterns are manufactured to applicable CSA specifications in our new 90,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility in Edmonton, Alberta.

All concrete water cisterns from Tanks-A-Lot have the following industry-leading features:

  • Cisterns can be upgraded with Xypex or Kryton brand microcrystalline sealant mixed right into the concrete, making it virtually impermeable
  • Raised-lip manhole on roof of tank for superior sealing of manhole extensions. Ultra-rib (plastic) extensions are also available
  • Threaded 1.25″ brass outlet for superior connection of pressure lines to the pump and to the house supply line
  • 20-year limited warranty on materials and workmanship

What is a cistern?

Cisterns are structures used to store water for later consumption. Typically buried underground, water cisterns are ideal when there is no viable access to well water and no availability of municipal services. A common cistern is filled by removing an access cap at grade and placing a supply hose that is connected to a water truck. A submersible jet pump in the cistern is connected to a pressure tank and control switch located inside the house. An alternative arrangement is to locate a variable demand pump in the tank. This option provides a simpler arrangement and constant tap pressure, but at a higher cost.

Our concrete water cisterns can also be modified to a ‘trickle tank’ that can then be used in areas where municipal water is delivered via a system of low-pressure pipes. A trickle tank is directly connected to the municipal service. The water level is usually controlled by a float valve within the tank, thereby eliminating the need to fill the water tank by a truck.

How much does it cost to put in a cistern?

Cistern prices depend on the size of tank that’s best suited for your specific needs and can range between $3,000 to $8,000 for some common sizes. Installation costs can vary as they depend on factors such as site layout, lot size, soil types, elevations etc. Tanks-A-Lot works with qualified installers, and we’d be happy to put you in touch with one in your local area. Contact us to locate cistern installations near you!

What size cistern do I need?

One important factor to consider in sizing a cistern is the expected water demands of the household, which is influenced by the number, behaviour, and demographics of the residents, as well as by the characteristics of the installed plumbing fixtures. Another important sizing factor is the hauling capacity and pricing patterns of commercial water haulers serving the area. Many districts in Alberta are served by water haulers with 2,000 to 3,000 gallons of capacity. More than a 1-month supply in the tank is not desirable; less than a 1-week supply is inconvenient.

How often should a cistern be cleaned?

How often you clean your cistern depends on your specific situation. Alberta Health Services recommends cleaning and chlorinating your water cistern at least once a year. Click here for more information from Alberta Health Services on cistern cleaning.

How deep are cisterns buried?

Cisterns are typically buried with approximately 5’ of earth cover in order to keep the water cool and clear while protecting the tank and contents from freezing in winter. It’s also recommended to have the manway access point about a foot above the ground in order to slope the area away from the tank.

Click on the models below for technical information about popular water cisterns from Tanks-A-Lot Ltd. Contact us for additional information on other tank models and applications.