Re: Converting a swimming pool into a cistern

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We did it two years ago. A standard in-ground concrete pool was converted to a cistern of sorts – the affordable sort. We fitted a wooden deck over the top with gaps between the slats so rain can get in; a trapdoor for inspections, access to submersible pump and access to sweep out dirt and leaves etc during late summer when it has run dry. The supporting structure is a framework of water-proof timber. Cost me around $6000 Australian and could be done by any competent wood-structures builder with a helper or two. We use the water ONLY for our garden. To comply with building regulations/ health regs etc to save drinking water we would have to have a sealed pool with guttering from an adjacent garage, it would have to be mosquito proof – absolutely, and the internal support structures would have to be of non-rusting steel fabricated to fit + pump and access point. Our quote from the same builder we used was around $20,000 – hardly economic for us.

As it is the pool/ tank/ cistern doesn’t quite fill over a regular winter – last yr very below average, this yr going above but it is a very handy contributor to keeping established trees and veg garden going through our usual 5 month hot and utterly rainless summer. And we can still add 3 more narrow profile tanks to collect 15,000 litres from our garage. This is my next project – maybe 2011 if I can get my books re-published. It is hard work when you are on a super-pension so DO IT WHILE YOU ARE STILL IN WORK if you can.

Regards

Trevor N.