As part of the irrigation system we are developing in Permaculture Aralar we have installed two water tanks of 1000 liters each, we got them free through a friend. They were empty, in the past have contained motor oil. In addition to empty the bottom and handed over to recycling points have washed the inside and then we circulated water for more than 24 hours in each tank, we did it in winter when more water we have in place, you can see here. From a drum filled with spring water moves water through a hose by the principle of communicating vessels.

Cleaning tanks with pure water

In addition it was necessary to prepare the site where tanks are installed, having steep first of all had to clear the bush and then move lands with a good hoe, of course …

Prepairing tank's site

After that we prepare a very firm surface to hold the tanks, we use acacia stakes, in the back row was so difficult the job (the soil was very rocky) that finally we use galvanized steel pegs.

Basement with acacia' stakes

Over the stakes we  installed several strips of sufficient thickness, well secured to the stakes. A wooden hand guard and finally placed the tanks on top , here we are:

Tanks in their site

Now by connecting the tanks, this requires Polyethylene irrigation pipe and valves, T's, etcetera. We can see in the picture below. Polyethylene is the material used for this mission,  is the most “clean” plastic for that issue. We use food grade PE and 6 atmospheres of pressure, not more robust, we need irrigate by gravity and pressure will be low. The tube diameter is 25 and 20 mm.

Tools and pieces for the tanks

Here we see how it connects to the top, where the water enters the tank at the point of connection use an elbow brass (is more durable), we also see a T which will serve as an overflow tube. At the bottom of the picture we see a car, there is the future earth dam from which to pump the water, there is a difference of 10 meters high.

Connecting water intake

Here we see the installation almost complete, the deposit remains tightly closed to prevent entry of animals, to let out air while filling we have the tube that sticks, we have done so because it fills the tank excess water will go out there and movement of the pipe will be easily visible from below, thus we know that tank is full without climb up.

Water intake finished

Here is how connected the two tanks below, being notified just a single point of entry of water into the tank on the right, between a tube with 4 Ts letting you place 4 ball valves, one is for irrigation kiwis drip (with battery’s programmer), another for making manual watering with a hose for fruit trees that need less irrigation, others are for irrigation in another nearby area that we have not yet prepared:

Tank connection, valves, etc

Remain several outstanding issues which we’ll discuss in another entry: fasten tanks with wire and tensor to the structure, placing a mesh at the exit of water to keep insects out there. Cover the tanks to keep them from direct sun, not only to avoid hot water, also to avoid the appearance of algae by light. And of course the connection to the dam and pumping system.