Overhead tanks are very significant in modern buildings as these have the storage of water. Another important thing about these overhead tanks is the indication system which tells us how much water is inside. This blog explores overhead tank indication, importance, different methods of indication, and how it is helpful in efficient water management.
What is Overhead Tank Indication?
Overhead tank indication is the techniques and technologies used to show the level of water in an overhead tank. It is essential to know the level for several reasons, like ensuring there is adequate supply of water for the needs of the day and that it does not overflow causing damages to property. Precise indication helps in proper management of water resources, especially where supply is a problem.
Why is Overhead Tank Indication Important?
This means the overhead indication of an overhead tank really cannot be underrated. Here is why it’s very important:Â
Water Management: They can now easily plan in advance water usage due to very clear indication on water level. In most cases, this would mean not running dry unexpectedly.
Prevent overflows: A good indication system can prevent overflowing, which does not only waste water but could also damage the building and other surrounding areas due to the overflow.
Maintenance alerts: With a good indication system, the user would be alerted on the need for maintenance so that the tank would be well-serviced all the time.
Cost Efficiency: Deciding the right time to top up a tank can have them go long in saving through the eradication of unnecessary consumptions and leakages that will result when the tanks start overflowing.
Methods of Overhead Tank Indication
There are so many different methods of how water level in overhead tanks should be indicated. Each will have different advantages and be suited for one application. Here are common methods for overhead tank indications:
Float Switches
Float switches are one of the oldest and most widely used devices for overhead tank indication. They are usually fitted with a float that rises and falls in tandem with the water level. Electrical contacts open or close to indicate when the tank is full or empty or some intermediate level. Float switches are very reliable and simple, making them the popular choice for most installations.
- Ultrasonic Sensors
Ultrasonic sensors work on sound waves to measure the distance from the sensor to the surface of the water. This is then interpreted into a water level reading. These are contactless instruments that don’t disturb the water. They are very versatile devices and will accurately in continuous measurements.
- Pressure Transducers
The pressure transducers measure the pressure at the bottom of the water column in the tank. As the pressure is proportional to the height of the water column above, these devices can give good indications of the water level. Pressure transducers are rugged and capable of working under most environmental conditions, thus suitable for the indication of overhead tanks.
- Capacitance Level Sensors
Level sensors measure the capacitance level by sensing the change in capacitance when water presents itself. Therefore, the sensors can read level levels of water accurately without necessarily contacting the water. Capacitance sensors are suitable for a variety of sizes in tanks and kinds of applications so can be placed in many applications.
- Visual Indicators
The simplest of these will be the visual indication which provides an instantaneous, direct visible indication of the water level. Such as marked gauges on the side of the tank, or in more advanced designs, the mechanical indications. These may be less complicated than electronic systems but are quite efficient for specific purposes.
Selecting the Correct Overhead Tank Indication System
In choosing overhead tank indication systems, you must consider several factors:
Tank Size and Type: For any specific size of a tank, complex systems are needed to read the tank properly, or small tanks may be enough with basic float switches.
Environmental Conditions: Choose the conditions by which your system will work. For instance, if it is exposed to extreme weather, a robust example such as a pressure transducer is in order.
Budget: How much one can afford to spend for the indication system. Some will have more expensive purchasing cost while at the same time saving costs since it saves water.
Maintenance needs: The amount of effort some systems require than the other. One would therefore determine the amount of efforts that one can allow one self to spend.
Pros in Installing Overhead Tank Indication Systems
There are several advantages in installing a reliable overhead tank indication system:
You can conserve water effectively because you know when to fill the tank and when to stop.
Users can plan their water usage according to the levels indicated, hence using more efficient amounts of water resources.
Preventing overflow reduces the possibility of water damage, which can be expensive to repair.
Peace of Mind: You can focus on other things about your life or business without a feeling that issues may emerge to hit your water supply.
Conclusion
Overhead tank indication is one of the most important features of contemporary water management. Knowing the importance and way of water level indication will be able to help you make proper decisions regarding your water supply needs. With the right system, it is possible to have efficient management of water, avoid overflow, and effectively manage your overhead tank. Whether you prefer traditional float switches or advanced ultrasonic sensors, having a reliable indication system in place is something that should not be avoided for any property with an overhead tank. Take time to compare and invest in an indication system that satisfies you, and you’ll have peace of mind for years.
