In an increasingly uncertain world, having a reliable and uninterrupted water supply is crucial for every household. Municipal water backup and filtration systems provide a cost-effective solution to address water cuts, low pressure, and concerns about water quality. In this article, we will explore the benefits, components, installation, maintenance, and filtration options of municipal backup systems. Discover how you can secure your water source and ensure healthy, great-tasting water for your household.
Benefits of Municipal Backup Systems
Uninterrupted water supply is one of the key benefits of a municipal backup system. With this system, a tank is tied to the main water supply line and automatically fills when municipal water is available. In the event of a water cut, the stored water can be used, providing you with a continuous water feed that is clean and safe for household use and consumption.
Apart from ensuring a consistent water supply, municipal backup systems offer the following advantages:
- Pressure: The system provides a pressured water feed, which is essential for various household tasks such as showering, washing dishes, and doing laundry.
- Ease of Use: Once installed, the system operates automatically, requiring minimal effort from the homeowner.
- Cost-effective: Municipal backup systems eliminate the need for expensive alternatives like boreholes or water delivery services.
Components of a Municipal Backup System
To understand how a municipal backup system works, let's examine its key components:
- Water Tank: The tank, available in different sizes, stores the municipal water supplied through the main water line.
- Base/Foundation: A solid and level foundation is essential to support the weight of the tank and ensure its stability.
- Pump and Pump Cover: A water pump is necessary to extract water from the tank and deliver it to the house. It's recommended to use a pump cover to protect the pump from the elements.
When selecting a suitable water pump, consider factors such as the water source, required pressure, and application to ensure it meets your specific requirements.
To connect the tank to the pump, a pump-to-tank connector kit is used. This all-inclusive kit provides seamless connection and is compatible with various booster pumps. Additionally, pipes, elbows, float valve kits, ball valves, and non-return valves are employed to ensure proper water flow, isolation of components, and prevention of back pressure to the main supply.
Green Overall Midrand is an accomplished installer and recognized by JoJo as an accredited installer.
Installation Guide for a Municipal Backup System
Before installing a municipal backup system, consider the following pre-installation steps:
- Choose a Tank: Estimate the required tank size based on the number of people in your household and their daily water consumption. It's recommended to calculate the size of the tank using the formula: Size of tank = litres per day × total days of backup required.
- Tank Placement: Position the tank where it can intercept the municipal water supply before it enters the house.
- Base/Foundation Options: Ensure the tank is installed on a sound, level, and smooth surface. Paying attention to the required minimum thickness for the concrete slam that will support the weight of a full tank.
Once the pre-installation steps are complete, follow these installation steps to set up your municipal backup system:
- Base: Install the tank on the chosen foundation, ensuring it is secure and level.
- Plumbing - Tank to Pump: Use the pump-to-tank connector kit to connect the tank and the pump. Consider the appropriate pipe size for optimal water flow.
- Plumbing - Pump to House: Connect the pump to your house's plumbing system, ensuring proper water distribution throughout the household.
- Plumbing - Municipal Feed to Tank: Supply the tank with municipal water using the float valve kit. Install a ball valve to control and shut off the water supply when necessary.
- Fill the Tank: Open the ball valve to allow municipal water to fill the tank. The float valve will automatically close the water supply when the tank is full and open it again when the water level drops.
- Recommendation: Regularly circulate and rotate the stored water to keep it fresh. Use the water for various purposes such as washing your car, filling up the pool, or watering the garden. This rotation helps maintain the quality of the water inside the tank.
It's important to note that each installation may vary based on specific setups and preferences. For optimal results, contact Green Overall Midrand an Accredited JoJo installer so we can tailor the system to your unique requirements.
Maintenance of a Municipal Backup System
To ensure the longevity and efficiency of your municipal backup system, regular maintenance is essential. Follow these tips to prolong the system's life and reduce the potential for damages:
- Keep Your Tank Clean: Inspect the inside of the tank every three months to ensure cleanliness and proper functioning. Check for loose lids or uncovered overflow pipes that may contribute to contamination.
- Rotate the Water: While municipal water is generally treated and safe for consumption, it's recommended to rotate the stored water every two weeks. This practice helps maintain freshness and ensures the system functions properly. Create a schedule to use the stored water for various purposes, such as washing, gardening, or filling other containers.
By adhering to these maintenance practices, you can enjoy the full benefits of your municipal backup system for an extended period.
Filtration Options for Municipal Backup Systems
While treated municipal water is generally suitable for household use, additional filtration may be necessary depending on the water quality. To ensure healthy and great-tasting water, consider these filtration options:
- Undersink or Countertop Filter: These filters are installed at a single tap inside your home and are designed for drinking purposes. They effectively remove potentially harmful contaminants, providing clean and safe water for consumption.
- Whole-House Filter: Placed outside, this filter ensures that all the water used in your house is filtered. It offers comprehensive protection by removing impurities from the entire water supply.
Before selecting a filtration option, assess the quality of your municipal water and consult with Green Overall Midrand to determine the most suitable solution for your household's needs.
Municipal backup systems offer a reliable and cost-effective solution to address water cuts, low pressure, and concerns about water quality. By installing a backup system, you can ensure an uninterrupted water supply for your household. Remember to choose the appropriate tank size, establish a solid foundation, and connect the system properly using the recommended components. Regular maintenance and filtration are crucial to maintaining the system's efficiency and ensuring the delivery of healthy, great-tasting water. Explore the range of water storage solutions and filtration options available to secure your water source and enjoy peace of mind in any situation.
With a municipal backup system, you can face water challenges head-on and ensure your household always has access to a reliable water supply. Contact Green Overall Midrand to discover more about our water storage solutions, and filtration options.
Additional Information:
- It is recommended to consult an accredited JoJo installer to ensure the proper installation and functioning of your municipal backup system.
- Regularly test the quality of your municipal water to determine if additional filtration is necessary.
- Municipal backup systems can be portable and suitable for both permanent and temporary installations.
