Choosing the right water tank size is one of the most important decisions when building or upgrading a water storage system in your home. In Kenya, where water supply can be unpredictable, having the correct tank size ensures efficiency, reliability, and peace of mind.
Why Tank Size Matters
A water storage tank that’s too small won’t last you through supply shortages. One that’s too big might waste space and money. To strike the right balance, you need to assess your daily water usage and anticipate future needs.
Estimating Your Household Water Consumption
Here’s a quick reference for common daily water needs in a Kenyan household:
| Activity | Litres per use/person |
|---|---|
| Drinking and cooking | 5–10 L |
| Bathing/shower | 20–40 L |
| Toilet flushing | 5–15 L per flush |
| Laundry | 40–80 L per load |
| Dishwashing | 10–20 L |
Using these estimates, a family of four may use 300–600 litres per day.
Recommended Tank Sizes by Household
| Household Size | Daily Use Estimate | Suggested Tank Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 1–2 people | 150–300 L | 500 – 1,000 L |
| 3–4 people | 400–700 L | 1,500 – 2,000 L |
| 5–6 people | 700–1,000 L | 2,000 – 3,000 L |
| 7–10+ people | 1,000–2,000 L | 5,000 – 10,000 L |
If you live in an area with unreliable supply, consider a water tank that can store 3–7 days’ worth of water.
Comparing Tank Sizes and Their Use Cases
- 500-litre tank: Suitable for single users or small backup
- 1,000-litre tank: Great for couples or low-use households
- 2,000-litre tank: Common in average households
- 3,000-litre tank: Good for families and laundry-heavy homes
- 5,000-litre tank: Large households or areas with irregular supply
- 10,000-litre tank: Farms, institutions, or water-scarce locations
Accessories That Improve Water Usage
To make the most of your tank, consider installing:
- Water pressure tank: Ensures stable water flow for showers and faucets
- Well tank: Ideal for borehole-fed systems
- Water tank with pump: Boosts pressure from ground-level tanks
- Expansion tank: Prevents overflow in solar or pumped systems
These components help reduce water wastage and increase system efficiency.
Tank Placement Considerations
- Ground Level: Simple to install, but may need a pump
- Elevated Platforms: Gravity-fed systems save on pump costs
- Underground Tanks: Ideal for space-saving and UV protection
Tip: Ensure easy access for cleaning and refilling regardless of placement.
Choosing for the Future
Your water needs may increase as your family grows or your usage habits change. Always buy a tank that’s slightly larger than your current needs to prepare for:
- New family members
- Added bathrooms or sinks
- New irrigation or laundry equipment
Final Advice: Size Matters
The right water tank size depends on your daily usage, water source reliability, and future plans. Don’t guess—calculate. With options ranging from 500 litres to 10,000 litres and beyond, Kenyan homeowners have plenty of choices.
