Water Storage Solutions for Irish Farms: Boosting Efficiency and Yield

Home » Water Storage Solutions for Irish Farms: Boosting Efficiency and Yield

June 25, 2025

In Ireland’s ever-evolving agricultural landscape, water management is more critical than ever. With unpredictable weather patterns, increasing demand for sustainable practices, and the need for consistent crop and livestock care, efficient water storage for farms are no longer optional—they’re essential.

Tricel Water Storage, a leader in GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) tank manufacturing, offers tailored solutions that help Irish farmers secure their water supply, reduce waste, and improve productivity.

Why Water Storage for Farms Matters

Ireland’s climate, while generally wet, is increasingly marked by seasonal droughts and water restrictions, especially during summer months. This makes on-site water storage a strategic asset for:

Irrigation during dry spells
Livestock hydration
Cleaning and sanitation
Emergency reserves

Without reliable storage, farms risk yield loss, animal stress, and operational delays.

Benefits of Tricel’s Water Storage Solutions

Tricel’s water storage tanks are engineered to meet the unique demands of Irish agriculture. Whether you’re managing a dairy herd, growing crops, or operating a mixed-use farm, Tricel delivers reliable, efficient, and future-proof solutions. Here’s a closer look at the key benefits:

Durability: Built to Last in Irish Conditions

GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) construction ensures exceptional strength and longevity.
Resistant to corrosion, rust, and UV degradation, even in coastal or high-rainfall areas.
Insulated tanks withstands ever-changing temperatures, frost, and wind exposure, making it ideal for Ireland’s variable climate.
Minimal maintenance required—no need for internal coatings or frequent replacements.

Our tanks are designed to perform for decades, even in the toughest rural environments.

Custom Capacity: Tailored to Every Farm

Available in sizes from 45 litres to over 4.6 million litres, accommodating everything from smallholdings to large-scale operations.
Modular sectional tanks allow for future expansion as your farm grows.
Choose from a variety of options to suit your space and usage needs.

Whether you need a compact tank for a polytunnel or a high-capacity system for livestock, Tricel has a solution.

Hygienic & Safe: Protecting Your Water Supply

Manufactured using WRAS-approved materials, ensuring compliance with drinking water standards.
Smooth internal surfaces prevent bacterial buildup and algae growth.
Optional insulated and enclosed designs protect water from contamination, light exposure, and temperature fluctuations.
Ideal for storing potable water, rainwater, or greywater safely and securely.

Clean water means healthier livestock, better crop yields, and peace of mind.

Easy Installation: Hassle-Free Setup

Choose between one-piece tanks for quick delivery and use, or sectional tanks for large or hard-to-access sites.
Delivered directly to your farm and assembled on-site by trained professionals.
Lightweight GRP material makes handling and positioning easier than traditional concrete or steel tanks.
Compatible with existing plumbing, pumps, and filtration systems.

Tricel’s installation team ensures your tank is up and running with minimal disruption to your operations.

Sustainable: Supporting Eco-Friendly Farming

Reduce your reliance on mains water and lower your utility bills.
Integrate with rainwater harvesting systems to capture and reuse natural rainfall.
Helps meet environmental compliance and sustainability goals for modern Irish agriculture.
Contributes to climate resilience by ensuring water availability during droughts or restrictions.

Investing in water storage is a step toward a greener, more self-sufficient farm.

Types of Water Storage for Farms

TANK TYPE	BEST FOR	CAPACITY RANGE
One-Piece GRP Tanks	Small to medium farms	45L – 6,000L
Sectional Modular Tanks	Large farms or shared systems	1,000L – 4.6M+ L
Insulated Tanks	Frost protection	Custom
Rainwater Harvesting Tanks	Sustainable irrigation	Custom

How to Choose the Right Tank

Selecting the right water storage tank is a crucial decision that impacts your farm’s efficiency, sustainability, and long-term costs. Tricel offers a wide range of tank types and sizes, but choosing the best fit depends on several key factors:

1. Farm Size and Water Demand

Start by calculating your daily and seasonal water usage. Consider:

Livestock needs (e.g., dairy cows require 100+ litres/day each)
Irrigation schedules for crops or polytunnels
Cleaning and machinery washdown
Rainwater harvesting potential

Larger farms or those with high water turnover may benefit from modular sectional tanks that can be expanded over time.

2. Available Space

Evaluate where the tank will be installed:

Is the area level and accessible for delivery?
Will the tank be exposed to sunlight or frost?

Tricel’s tanks come in various footprints and heights, making them adaptable to tight or irregular spaces. For limited space, vertical tanks may be ideal, while horizontal tanks suit low-clearance areas.

3. Installation Access

Consider the logistics of getting the tank to your site:

Can a delivery truck or crane access the location?
Is there room for on-site assembly if using sectional tanks?
Will the tank need to be moved in the future?

Tricel offers pre-assembled one-piece tanks for quick installation.

4. Budget and Long-Term ROI

While upfront cost is important, think long-term:

Reduced reliance on mains water = lower utility bills
Rainwater harvesting systems can pay for themselves in a few years

Investing in a high-quality tank now can prevent costly repairs, water loss, or contamination down the line.

5. Use Tricel’s Free Consultation & Tank Calculator

Not sure where to start? Tricel provides:

Free expert consultations to assess your needs
A Tank Sizing Calculator Tools to estimate the ideal capacity
Custom quotes and site-specific recommendations

FAQs

Can I use rainwater for livestock?

Yes, with proper filtration and storage, rainwater water storage for farms is safe for livestock.

Are tanks suitable for frost-prone areas?

Yes, insulated tanks are available to prevent freezing.

Do I need planning permission?

In most cases, no—but check with your local authority for large installations.

Maintenance Tips for Longevity

Proper maintenance of your water storage tank ensures optimal performance, hygiene, and a lifespan that can exceed 30 years. Here’s a more detailed guide to keeping your Tricel tank in top condition:

1. Inspect Tanks Bi-Annually

Schedule a thorough inspection at least twice a year, ideally in spring and autumn. Look for:

Signs of wear or weather damage
Discoloration or unusual smells in the water
Insect or rodent activity around the tank base
Structural integrity of the tank supports and fittings

Tip: Keep a maintenance log to track inspections and any repairs.

2. Clean Out Sediment and Algae

Over time, sediment, organic matter, and algae can accumulate inside the tank, especially if using rainwater. This can affect water quality and clog irrigation systems.

Drain the tank completely
Use a soft brush and mild disinfectant (WRAS-approved) to scrub the interior
Rinse thoroughly before refilling

For large tanks, consider hiring a professional tank cleaning service annually.

3. Check for Cracks or Leaks

Even durable GRP tanks can develop micro-cracks or sealant failures due to ground movement or frost.

Inspect seams, joints, and base for any signs of leakage
Look for damp patches around the tank’s foundation
Use a torch to check for internal cracks in low-light conditions

Early detection prevents water loss and structural damage.

4. Ensure Lids Are Sealed to Prevent Contamination

A secure, well-fitted lid is your first line of defense against:

Algae growth from sunlight exposure
Animal droppings, insects, or debris entering the tank
Evaporation during warm months

Make sure the lid is UV-resistant, lockable, and ventilated to allow airflow without letting contaminants in.

Why Choose Tricel?

Over 50 years of experience
Irish-made, supporting local jobs
Certified to ISO 9001 and WRAS standards
Custom-engineered for your farm’s needs

Water is the lifeblood of any farm. With Tricel’s robust and efficient water storage solutions, Irish farmers can future-proof their operations, boost productivity, and embrace sustainability.

Whether you’re a smallholder or managing a large-scale dairy operation, Tricel has a solution tailored to your needs.