Simple Drinker and Storage Tank Setup
To create a wildlife watering system in a remote location, simply connect the drinker to any size water storage tank or IBC Tote.
Rainmaker drinkers have a float valve designed to operate with either a pressure water line or a gravity feed line. The water pressure needs to be between 2 and 70 psi.
If you are setting up a gravity feed system, you will want to have the storage tank a few feet higher than the drinker. Note, you create approximately 1 psi for every 2.2 feet of elevation. So, you will want to have the storage tank about 5 feet or higher than the drinker to create sufficient water pressure. (5/2.2=2.27 psi)
Storage Tanks Options and Considerations
You can hand-fill your storage tank or build a rain collection roof system over the tank to gather rain when available. (see image)
Storage capacity is scaleable. If you decide you want more storage capacity, simply add a second tank in “series” to expand the total capacity. You can also add a second drinker to the system if you want to fence out pigs or spread out the animals.
When choosing a tank, opt for a dark color. This will help block out UV and reduce algae growth.
Traditional Polyethylene Storage Tank
These are durable, long-lasting options. They are commonly available online and from local sources such as “Tractor Supply”. They generally tend to be the most expensive option. Google “Plastic Water Tanks”
Water Barrels
Water barrels should be easy to find locally. They are usually about 55 gallons. Make sure they already have a spigot installed at the bottom of the barrel. Common price is about $100. Google “Plastic Rain Barrels”
IBC Totes
These totes are a great option and available new and used. If you buy a used one, make sure it has been previously used for food and not toxic chemicals. Also, because bladder is an opaque color, you will want to block it from UV to inhibit algae growth. You can spray paint the bladder a dark color, frame it with plywood, or cover it with a tarp. Common sizes are 275-330 gallons. Used Price $50-$125. Google “Used IBC Totes”