Well Water Storage Tank: Complete Buyer’s Guide

Your well produces water—just not enough when you need it most. Morning showers trigger alarms. Running the dishwasher and washing machine simultaneously empties your well. Or maybe you’re planning ahead, wanting backup water storage for emergencies.

A well water storage tank can solve these problems by storing water during low-demand periods and providing ample supply during peak usage. But with tanks ranging from 100 to 10,000+ gallons and prices from $300 to $5,000+, choosing the right system requires understanding your needs, budget, and installation options.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about well water storage tanks in 2,500 words or less—so you can make an informed decision quickly.

Quick Cost Overview

Storage Tank Only: $300-$2,500
Complete System (Tank + Pump + Install): $1,500-$5,000
DIY Installation: Saves $500-$2,000

Cost by Size:

• 100-300 gallons: $300-$800
• 300-500 gallons: $600-$1,200
• 500-1,000 gallons: $900-$1,800
• 1,000-2,500 gallons: $1,400-$3,000
• 2,500+ gallons: $2,500-$5,000+

Related: LINK: Best Pressure Tanks for Well Water – Different from storage tanks

When You Need a Storage Tank

Problem 1: Low-Yielding Well

Symptoms:

• Well pump can’t keep up with demand
• Pressure drops during peak usage
• Pump runs constantly
• Well recovery rate under 5 GPM

Solution: Storage tank collects water slowly over time, provides ample supply when needed.

Problem 2: Peak Demand Issues

Symptoms:

• Morning rush overwhelms system
• Can’t run multiple fixtures simultaneously
• Irrigation depletes well

Solution: Tank stores water overnight, ready for high-demand periods.

Problem 3: Emergency Backup

Reasons:

• Power outages (pump won’t run)
• Pump failure backup
• Drought conditions
• Peace of mind

Solution: Stored water provides days of supply without power.

Problem 4: Pressure Consistency

Symptoms:

• Fluctuating water pressure
• Pump short-cycling
• Inadequate flow to upper floors

Solution: Storage tank + booster pump provides consistent pressure.

Related: LINK: Low Water Pressure from Well – Troubleshooting guide

Storage Tank vs. Pressure Tank

Don’t confuse these—they serve different purposes:

FeaturePressure TankStorage TankPurposeMaintain system pressureStore large water volumeSize20-80 gallons typical100-10,000+ gallonsPressurePressurized (30-60 PSI)Atmospheric (no pressure)LocationAfter pumpBefore booster pumpCost$150-$600$300-$5,000+FunctionReduces pump cyclingProvides water reserve

You often need BOTH: Storage tank for volume, pressure tank for system pressure.

Types of Storage Tanks

1. Polyethylene (Plastic) Tanks

Cost: $300-$2,000

Pros: ✅ Affordable ✅ Lightweight ✅ Won’t corrode ✅ Easy DIY installation ✅ UV-resistant (outdoor use) ✅ FDA-approved for potable water

Cons: ❌ Not as durable as steel ❌ Limited to ~2,500 gallons ❌ Can become brittle over time

Best For: Most residential applications, budget-conscious buyers

Recommended Products:

• [AFFILIATE LINK] Norwesco 305-Gallon Tank ($400-$600)
• [AFFILIATE LINK] RomoTech 500-Gallon Tank ($700-$900)
• [AFFILIATE LINK] Plastic-Mart 1,000-Gallon Tank ($1,000-$1,400)

2. Galvanized Steel Tanks

Cost: $2,000-$10,000+ (installed)

Pros: ✅ Huge capacity (5,000-100,000+ gallons) ✅ Extremely durable (30+ years) ✅ Professional appearance ✅ Best for large properties

Cons: ❌ Expensive ❌ Requires professional installation ❌ Heavy (permanent placement) ❌ May need foundation

Best For: Farms, ranches, large estates, commercial use

Recommended: Aquamate, Pioneer Water Tanks

3. Stainless Steel Tanks

Cost: $1,500-$5,000

Pros: ✅ Will not corrode ✅ Longest lifespan ✅ Indoor-friendly ✅ Clean, sanitary

Cons: ❌ Expensive per gallon ❌ Limited sizes (<2,000 gallons) ❌ Heavy

Best For: Indoor installations, highest quality requirements

4. Fiberglass Tanks

Cost: $800-$3,000

Pros: ✅ Corrosion-resistant ✅ Lightweight yet durable ✅ Long lifespan ✅ Smooth interior (easy cleaning)

Cons: ❌ More expensive than plastic ❌ Can crack if mishandled ❌ Limited availability

Best For: Buried installations, corrosive environments

Sizing Your Storage Tank

Calculate Your Needs

Formula: (Daily Usage × Days of Storage) + Peak Demand Buffer

Average Household Water Use:

• 1-2 people: 100-150 gallons/day
• 3-4 people: 200-300 gallons/day
• 5-6 people: 300-400 gallons/day

Example Calculation:

• Family of 4: 250 gallons/day
• 2 days backup: 500 gallons
• Peak demand buffer: 200 gallons
• Recommended tank: 500-750 gallons

Sizing by Well Recovery Rate

If your well recovers at:

• 1-2 GPM: Need 500-1,000 gallon tank
• 2-3 GPM: Need 300-500 gallon tank
• 3-5 GPM: Need 200-300 gallon tank
• 5+ GPM: Pressure tank may suffice

Related: LINK: Best Well Pumps – Pump capacity considerations

Complete Storage System Components

What You Need Beyond the Tank

1. Transfer Pump ($150-$800)

• Moves water from storage to house
• Booster pump maintains pressure
• [AFFILIATE LINK] Goulds Booster Pump ($400-$700)

2. Float Switches ($30-$100)

• Control water levels
• Prevent overflow
• Auto-fill when low

3. Pressure Tank ($150-$600)

• After storage tank
• Maintains system pressure
• [AFFILIATE LINK] See Best Pressure Tanks

4. Piping & Valves ($100-$400)

• Connect well to storage
• Storage to house
• Bypass valves

5. Control System ($200-$600)

• Automated operation
• Level monitoring
• Alarm for low water

Total System Cost: $1,500-$5,000 depending on complexity

Installation Options

DIY Installation

Skill Level: Moderate
Time: 1-2 days
Savings: $500-$2,000

Steps:

1. Choose tank location (level, accessible)
2. Prepare foundation (gravel pad or concrete)
3. Set tank and level
4. Run inlet pipe from well pump
5. Install outlet to booster pump/house
6. Add overflow drain
7. Install float controls
8. Test system

Tools Needed:

• Level
• Pipe wrenches
• Pipe cutter
• Drill
• Basic plumbing supplies

When DIY Makes Sense: ✅ Above-ground installation ✅ Accessible location ✅ Basic plumbing skills ✅ Smaller tanks (<1,000 gallons)

Professional Installation

Cost: $500-$3,000 depending on complexity

Includes:

• Site preparation
• Tank placement
• Complete plumbing
• Electrical (if needed)
• Testing and startup

When to Hire Pro: ❌ Buried tank ❌ Complex system ❌ Large tank (1,000+ gallons) ❌ Difficult access ❌ Want warranty protection

Storage Tank Placement

Location Considerations

Indoor (Basement/Utility Room):

• Pros: Protected from freezing, accessible
• Cons: Limited space, leak concerns, size restrictions
• Best for: 100-500 gallon tanks

Outdoor (Above Ground):

• Pros: No space constraints, easy access for large tanks
• Cons: Freezing risk (needs insulation), sunlight degrades plastic
• Best for: Most installations with proper protection

Underground (Buried):

• Pros: Protected from elements, out of sight
• Cons: Installation cost, access for maintenance, excavation
• Best for: Aesthetic concerns, freezing climates

Tank Location Tips: ✅ Close to well pump (shorter pipe runs) ✅ Lower than house (if using existing well pump) ✅ Or elevated (for gravity-fed systems) ✅ Level foundation ✅ Accessible for cleaning/maintenance ✅ Overflow drainage available

Maintenance Requirements

Monthly:

☐ Check water level ☐ Inspect for leaks ☐ Test float switches

Annually:

☐ Drain and clean tank interior ☐ Inspect all connections ☐ Check pump operation ☐ Clean filters/screens

Every 3-5 Years:

☐ Deep cleaning (scrub walls) ☐ Replace worn components ☐ Inspect tank integrity

Maintenance Costs: $50-$200/year (mostly DIY)

Common Problems & Solutions

Problem: Algae Growth

Cause: Sunlight entering tank, warm water

Solutions:

• Use opaque tank
• Keep tank covered/sealed
• Add chlorine (if potable)
• Clean regularly

Problem: Sediment Accumulation

Cause: Minerals settling from well water

Solutions:

• Install sediment filter [AFFILIATE LINK]
• Drain tank annually
• Use tank bottom drain
• Related: LINK: Best Sediment Filters for Well Water

Problem: Freezing (Winter)

Cause: Outdoor tank in cold climate

Solutions:

• Insulate tank
• Heat tape on pipes [AFFILIATE LINK]
• Bury tank below frost line
• Tank heater (if needed)

Problem: Foul Odor/Taste

Cause: Bacteria growth, stagnant water

Solutions:

• Chlorinate tank
• Increase water circulation
• Clean tank thoroughly
• Related: LINK: Well Water Odor Problems

Top Storage Tank Recommendations

Best Overall: Norwesco 305-Gallon Vertical Tank

Price: $400-$600
[AFFILIATE LINK]

Why: Perfect size for most homes, quality construction, proven reliability, widely available, good value.

---

Best Budget: RomoTech 165-Gallon Tank

Price: $250-$400
[AFFILIATE LINK]

Why: Affordable entry point, adequate for couples or backup storage, easy to install.

---

Best Large Capacity: Plastic-Mart 1,550-Gallon Tank

Price: $1,600-$2,200
[AFFILIATE LINK]

Why: Major storage for large families or low-yield wells, polyethylene durability, reasonable cost per gallon.

---

Best Premium: Aquamate Galvanized Steel Tank

Price: $3,000-$8,000 (5,000+ gallons)
[AFFILIATE LINK]

Why: Maximum capacity, 30+ year lifespan, professional quality, best for farms/estates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does water stay fresh in a storage tank?

A: With proper tank sealing and minimal light exposure, water stays fresh 6-12 months. However, plan for regular use and circulation. Chlorinated water lasts longer than untreated. Clean tanks annually.

Q: Do I need to treat stored well water?

A: If your well water is already safe to drink, stored water should remain safe in a sealed, clean tank. However, adding a small chlorine residual (0.5-1.0 PPM) provides extra protection for long-term storage. Related: LINK: Best Well Water Test Kits

Q: Can I use a storage tank with a septic system?

A: Yes, but be mindful of peak discharge. Septic systems need time to process wastewater. Spread water usage throughout the day even with storage capacity. Related: LINK: Septic System Maintenance

Q: What size tank do I need for emergency backup?

A: Calculate 3-7 days of conservative use. Average: 50 gallons/person/day for minimal use. Family of 4 × 50 gallons × 5 days = 1,000-gallon tank for reasonable emergency backup.

Q: Will a storage tank solve my low water pressure?

A: Not by itself. Storage provides volume, not pressure. You need a booster pump after the storage tank to create pressure. Storage tank + booster pump = solution to both volume and pressure issues.

Related Articles

• LINK: Best Pressure Tanks for Well Water – System pressure solutions
• LINK: Best Well Pumps – Pump selection guide
• LINK: Submersible Well Pump Troubleshooting – Pump diagnostics
• LINK: Low Water Pressure from Well – Pressure solutions
• LINK: Best Sediment Filters for Well Water – Protect your storage
• LINK: Annual Well Maintenance Checklist – Complete care guide

Take Action

Next Steps:

1. Calculate your storage needs using formulas above
2. Choose tank type and size based on budget
3. Plan installation (DIY or professional)
4. Order tank and components
5. Install and test system

Recommended Products:

Storage Tanks:

• [AFFILIATE LINK] Norwesco 305-Gallon ($400-$600)
• [AFFILIATE LINK] RomoTech 500-Gallon ($700-$900)
• [AFFILIATE LINK] Plastic-Mart 1,000-Gallon ($1,000-$1,400)

Booster Pumps:

• [AFFILIATE LINK] Goulds Booster Pump ($400-$700)
• [AFFILIATE LINK] Grundfos Pressure Booster ($500-$900)

Accessories:

• [AFFILIATE LINK] Float switches and controls
• [AFFILIATE LINK] Tank insulation kits
• [AFFILIATE LINK] Water level indicators

Solve your low-yield well problems or create emergency backup today!