Rainwater Tank Plumbing: What You Need to Know Before You Install

Thinking about installing a rainwater tank at your place?

Good call! Especially if you're in the Hawkesbury, Penrith or Western Sydney region, where saving water makes both environmental and financial sense.

But before you start stacking bricks or ordering tanks online, there’s a fair bit more to consider than just where it’ll fit in the backyard.

As locals who’ve helped dozens of families install and connect rainwater tanks over the years, we’ve pulled together everything you need to know so your new system works perfectly, complies with local regs, and saves you money long-term.

Why Install a Rainwater Tank in Western Sydney?

Let’s start with the why.

The Western Sydney region experiences some extreme weather - heavy rains followed by long dry spells. By collecting rainwater when it’s bucketing down, you’re setting your home up for better water independence during the dry.

If you’re in Hawkesbury or Penrith, using tank water for gardens, toilets, or even laundry can seriously cut your water bills. Some homeowners are even eligible for rebates or council incentives, depending on where you live.

What’s Involved in Rainwater Tank Plumbing?

Here’s the part that often gets overlooked. Installing the tank is only step one. The real value comes from professional plumbing that connects it to your home and uses the water properly.

Here's what a proper setup usually includes:

✔️ Guttering & Downpipes

Your tank needs to be connected to clean, functioning gutters and downpipes that feed it efficiently during rainfall.

✔️ First Flush Diverter

This is a device that sends the first lot of dirty rainwater (think leaves, bird droppings, dust) away from your tank so only clean water is stored.

✔️ Pump System

Want to use tank water inside your house? You’ll need a pump that can push the water through to your laundry, toilet or irrigation system.

✔️ Backflow Prevention

To protect your drinking water supply, backflow prevention is essential and in many cases, legally required. It stops any tank water from flowing back into the mains.

✔️ Overflow Outlet

When the tank fills up, the extra water needs to be safely diverted, usually to stormwater drains or a safe drainage point in your yard.

Council Requirements and Approvals

In places like Penrith or the Hawkesbury LGA, local councils may have specific rules around rainwater systems. Some require approvals for tanks over a certain size, especially if they’re being plumbed into your house.

We recommend checking with your council or leaving it to us. At Kennedy’s, we’re across all the local rules and will make sure your system is 100 percent compliant.

Common Rainwater Tank Installation Mistakes

We’ve seen a few DIY or poorly-installed systems over the years. Here are the common issues to avoid:

• Improper tank base: Tanks must sit on a solid, level foundation (usually a concrete slab or compacted crusher dust).

• Wrong pump size: Too small and the pressure won’t cut it. Too big and you're wasting energy.

• No backflow prevention: This can put your whole household water supply at risk.

• Bad overflow design: Poor drainage can flood your yard or damage your foundations.

  
  

Why Choose Kennedy’s for Your Rainwater Tank Plumbing?

We’re a local family-run business that genuinely cares about getting the job done right the first time. Our fully licensed plumbers know the ins and outs of Western Sydney properties, weather, soil and council rules.

Here’s what we offer:

• Expert advice on tank sizing and placement

• Full plumbing connections and compliance checks

• Quality pumps and accessories from trusted suppliers

• Clean, efficient and respectful installation service

  
  

Servicing Hawkesbury, Penrith & Western Sydney

Wherever you are in Western Sydney from Bligh Park to South Penrith, Richmond to Glenmore Park, we’re your local experts for rainwater tank plumbing.

Need help planning your install or upgrading an old tank system? Give Kennedy’s Plumbing & Electrical a call todayor request a quote online. We’ll make sure your rainwater setup works brilliantly for years to come.

Final Tip:

Don’t wait for the next big downpour to realise your tank’s not plumbed properly. Get it sorted now and make every drop count.