Water backup solutions

[Nihonto]

Hi all,
Finally decided that water backup isn't a matter of IF, but WHEN this is going to be vital. Have read through the other water backup threads, but they get confusing without firm answers on a lot of stuff.
Running a decent solar system, large house but only 2 people, so water consumption isn't crazy. I need to put the tank in an alleyway that is only about 1m wide, so I am looking for a slimline solution. I'm hoping some of the more experienced guys can comment and advise. I don't need a week backup, was thinking 3-4 days, and so I was thinking around 1000l would be ok. Most of the Jojo etc solutions will just fit, but getting past the tank to the geyser the other side of the blind alley would be a problem. I found that Africa Tanks does a 1450l slimline that is 700mm diameter, can't see a downside to this. Well priced, and I assume their quality is ok. Comments?
Then the pump. I am not looking to spend a fortune, but also not looking for the cheapest option. I figured that I may as well go for a VSD pump for convenience. With the solar, and the proximity to a bedroom, I want reliable auto system with minimal manual switching and noise.
The 2 obvious choices are the Jojo 0.75kw VSD or the DAB EsyBox Mini. (Not cheap, I know...but is it worth it?)
Both makes get good reviews, but I've seen the comments about the issues if you need backup and service. Is it that bad, and is it a deal breaker? If not one of those 2...what other choices are there in 0,75kx VSD pumps that are reliable and good quality? I don't see a lot of others mentioned too often. Want something decent, with the DAB being about max I can spend, but prefer less if possible.

I'm getting quotes of R30K-R39K fully installed, with a slab thrown. That seems a bit much to me, I was thinking under R30K. I don't want to do it myself.
There are a ton of companies out there doing installations in Jhb, but you never know who is reviewing themselves and who is really reliable. With solar, I was able to find 2 or 3 companies that were highly regarded by most.
With water backup, that doesn't seem to be as easy. Any reputable companies that don't charge a fortune.
I know I can buy the tank and pump myself, and get a slab thrown, but many companies seem not interested if you take away some of that profit from them.

Really need some advice here, as I am feeling overwhelmed with the decisions and contrary advice everywhere. Recommendations on my tank choice, pump suggestions and installers would be greatly appreciated.
Also, any other tips and tricks to look out for and what to add or what to avoid? Want something that doesn't need constant supervision or maintenance aside from the basics. Was thinking of inline filter too, while I am doing it.

Thanks in advance, appreciate it.

 

[Mannydefreitas]

Hi all,
Finally decided that water backup isn't a matter of IF, but WHEN this is going to be vital. Have read through the other water backup threads, but they get confusing without firm answers on a lot of stuff.
Running a decent solar system, large house but only 2 people, so water consumption isn't crazy. I need to put the tank in an alleyway that is only about 1m wide, so I am looking for a slimline solution. I'm hoping some of the more experienced guys can comment and advise. I don't need a week backup, was thinking 3-4 days, and so I was thinking around 1000l would be ok. Most of the Jojo etc solutions will just fit, but getting past the tank to the geyser the other side of the blind alley would be a problem. I found that Africa Tanks does a 1450l slimline that is 700mm diameter, can't see a downside to this. Well priced, and I assume their quality is ok. Comments?
Then the pump. I am not looking to spend a fortune, but also not looking for the cheapest option. I figured that I may as well go for a VSD pump for convenience. With the solar, and the proximity to a bedroom, I want reliable auto system with minimal manual switching and noise.
The 2 obvious choices are the Jojo 0.75kw VSD or the DAB EsyBox Mini. (Not cheap, I know...but is it worth it?)
Both makes get good reviews, but I've seen the comments about the issues if you need backup and service. Is it that bad, and is it a deal breaker? If not one of those 2...what other choices are there in 0,75kx VSD pumps that are reliable and good quality? I don't see a lot of others mentioned too often. Want something decent, with the DAB being about max I can spend, but prefer less if possible.

I'm getting quotes of R30K-R39K fully installed, with a slab thrown. That seems a bit much to me, I was thinking under R30K. I don't want to do it myself.
There are a ton of companies out there doing installations in Jhb, but you never know who is reviewing themselves and who is really reliable. With solar, I was able to find 2 or 3 companies that were highly regarded by most.
With water backup, that doesn't seem to be as easy. Any reputable companies that don't charge a fortune.
I know I can buy the tank and pump myself, and get a slab thrown, but many companies seem not interested if you take away some of that profit from them.

Really need some advice here, as I am feeling overwhelmed with the decisions and contrary advice everywhere. Recommendations on my tank choice, pump suggestions and installers would be greatly appreciated.
Also, any other tips and tricks to look out for and what to add or what to avoid? Want something that doesn't need constant supervision or maintenance aside from the basics. Was thinking of inline filter too, while I am doing it.

Thanks in advance, appreciate it.

I put in a water back up system many years ago.
Long before anyone thought it would be necessary.

It cost me R12k back then.

I too could only fit a 1000L tank due to space constraints.

Herewith my feedback on your post:

1. You ramble, rather ask questions in point form.

2. 1000L is far too little, I can only last 3 days if I economise.

3. You do not need a concrete slab for a tank, just a compacted level surface, ideally with some paving.

4. Do NOT plumb it in to run permanently, set it up that you must physically change over to the back up system.
People always argue this point with me. Because they don't know how it works.

5. If I don't use the water I then make a mental note to rotate the water every month or so. I usually just top the pool up. It takes less than an hour, the pool rises an inch and the tank is empty. I then refill.

6. I don't have Solar, so if there is a water outage I'd need to start the Gennie to run the Pump.

7. I have the DAB.

 

[Carl_Johnson]

I put in a water back up many years ago.
Long before anyone thought it would be necessary.

It cost me R12k back then.

I too could only fit a 1000L tank due to space constraints.

Herewith my feedback on your post:

1. You ramble, rather ask questions in point form.

2. 1000L is far too little, I can only last 3 days if I economise.

3. You do not nerd a slab for a tank, just a compacted level surface, ideally with some paving.

4. Do NOT plumb it in to run permanently, set it up that you must physically change over to the back up system.
People always argue this point with me. Because they don't know how it works.

5. If I don't use the water I then make a mental note to rotate the water every month or so. I usually just top the pool up. It takes less than an hour, the pool rises an inch and the tank is empty. I then refill.

6. I don't have Solar, so if there us a water outage I'd need to start the Gennie to run the Pump.

7. I have the DAB.

I like this, to the point.

 

[Carl_Johnson]

I also recently put in a wellpoint and got a 2500L tank. Actually bought it off FB Marketplace, I think I paid soemthing stupid like R2000 if I recall correctly, and the guy put in a third hole for me to run a tap fitting. This alone has saved me about R400pm on the water bill because I can use that water for the pool. Your quote of R30 - 39K seems very excessive! Rather give me that money and I sort out a lekker system for you.

 

[Priapus]

I put in a water back up many years ago.
Long before anyone thought it would be necessary.

Cool story bro. Want a cookie?

 

[DapperDanMan]

Recommendations on my tank choice

Get more than one.

Alternatively, get one with two outlets.





But seriously, here is a discussion on all 3 of the brands mentioned in your original post:

Jojo vs Eco vs Africa Tanks

Good people...I've been shopping around for a water storage tank. I have always known about Jojo tanks and Eco tanks, but then came across Africa Tanks...and their pricing is quite 'aggressive' (i.e. favourable, given the current tough times). Question: Are they any good? Of the three options...

mybroadband.co.za

 

[Mannydefreitas]

Ok, since we like point by point

1. Noted
2. Can fit in the 1450. That is ok. Pool can be used for flushing in an emergency
3. Uneven, wet and rocky soil. Compacting and leveling, and adding paving...likely same as throwing a slab
4. Would go for a system that switches over when there is an outage. Don't want to run permanently
5. Good point. Need to cycle the water anyways
6. Decent solar, so no worries
7. Feedback on it, and which model? Any regrets?

Mine has worked flawlessly for 12 years.
My only gripe is the tank size, that 1000L tank gives you 840 usable litre.

Wish I could fit, at least, a 2500L tank.

 

[Supervan II]

Mine has worked flawlessly for 12 years.
My only gripe is the tank size, that 1000L tank gives you 840 usable litre.

Wish I could fit, at least, a 2500L tank.

Pffft, amateurs!

My system:
In 2008 I bought 3 tanks (Eco) 1 x 5KL @ ±R2500 + 2 x 2.5KL @ ±R1500 ea.
Add plumbing (pipes/valves/connectors/NRVs, etc) @ R1500
Add 0.75KW pump & controller @ ± R1750
Wiring @ ± R250
1 x Big Jim cut and fitted as pump cover (pool pump cover didn't fit my setup)
Add in-line filter @ R150
Add concrete pre-mix, rods/washers/nuts, etc @ R250
Came in at <R10K as I did a self install, no concrete/paving required for tanks, but a small slab cast just to mount pump (4 x 10mm threaded rods sunk into concrete)
(Replacement pump controller *)

1. Ensure that you have a NRV between municipal supply and your system!*
(To prevent that ever happening again: a) I fitted a NRV just after municipal water meter AND b) relocated the electricity socket from the outside wall of my bedroom to the inside (to switch pump off when not in use) - lesson learnt!
2. Ensure that every tank has it's own valve so that it can be isolated from the system when needed, eg: to be cleaned
3. Install an in-line filter BEFORE the pump to eliminate as much particles as possible entering the pump
4. Install NRV just before pipe enters house plumbing (to maintain pressure in household)
5. Become WATER-WISE, 'cause whatever capacity you have planned and installed YOU WILL RUN OUT!

Bar the one pump controller replacement issue this system had been performing flawlessly since then and carried my household through a prolonged (±10 years) drought where NO municipal water was used **.

* I found out the hard way when some idjit from the monkeypality found my meter "not registering" any water consumption and opened the supply valve - municipal pressure must have dipped to below my pump's rated pressure (8 bar) a few times and burnt out my pump controller.
** My household: Me, wife and a nephew that used to visit over during the whole festive season

 

[gotaway]

Pffft, amateurs!

My system:
In 2008 I bought 3 tanks (Eco) 1 x 5KL @ ±R2500 + 2 x 2.5KL @ ±R1500 ea.
Add plumbing (pipes/valves/connectors/NRVs, etc) @ R1500
Add 0.75KW pump & controller @ ± R1750
Wiring @ ± R250
1 x Big Jim cut and fitted as pump cover (pool pump cover didn't fit my setup)
Add in-line filter @ R150
Add concrete pre-mix, rods/washers/nuts, etc @ R250
Came in at paving required for tanks, but a small slab cast just to mount pump (4 x 10mm threaded rods sunk into concrete)
(Replacement pump controller *)

1. Ensure that you have a NRV between municipal supply and your system!*
(To prevent that ever happening again: a) I fitted a NRV just after municipal water meter AND b) relocated the electricity socket from the outside wall of my bedroom to the inside (to switch pump off when not in use) - lesson learnt!
2. Ensure that every tank has it's own valve so that it can be isolated from the system when needed, eg: to be cleaned
3. Install an in-line filter BEFORE the pump to eliminate as much particles as possible entering the pump
4. Install NRV just before pipe enters house plumbing (to maintain pressure in household)
5. Become WATER-WISE, 'cause whatever capacity you have planned and installed YOU WILL RUN OUT!

Bar the one pump controller replacement issue this system had been performing flawlessly since then and carried my household through a prolonged (±10 years) drought where NO municipal water was used **.

* I found out the hard way when some idjit from the monkeypality found my meter "not registering" any water consumption and opened the supply valve - municipal pressure must have dipped to below my pump's rated pressure (8 bar) a few times and burnt out my pump controller.
** My household: Me, wife and a nephew that used to visit over during the whole festive season

To your point of the monkeypality opening the stop valve; I’ve added an additional stop valve on the municipal line inside my property which is locked and always closed.

 

[Supervan II]

To your point of the monkeypality opening the stop valve; I’ve added an additional stop valve on the municipal line inside my property which is locked and always closed.

One thing I have forgotten to mention is that I also installed a tap between my tanks and pump. The tap is right next to my little veggie garden so now I can water the garden via gravity feed without the pump, saving electricity in the process.

 

[marhsava]

I am thinking about getting the Jojo 0.75kw VSD over the DAB EsyBox Mini pump.

Any concerns with the Jojo pump?

 

[marbro]

4. Do NOT plumb it in to run permanently, set it up that you must physically change over to the back up system.
People always argue this point with me. Because they don't know how it works.

Why not direct/permanently? Surely this just lets the water circulate?

 

[soulie]

I am thinking about getting the Jojo 0.75kw VSD over the DAB EsyBox Mini pump.

Any concerns with the Jojo pump?

keep it dry ,dont like moisture .

 

[Lupus]

This is definitely something for me to look at now, cause we're out of water as they fix a pipe and next week they doing maintenance for a month on the main pump station

 

[marhsava]

keep it dry ,dont like moisture .

Any performance issues? , I can't justify paying that much for the dab if the JoJo does a similar job

 

[rh1]

Pffft, amateurs!

My system:
In 2008 I bought 3 tanks (Eco) 1 x 5KL @ ±R2500 + 2 x 2.5KL @ ±R1500 ea.
Add plumbing (pipes/valves/connectors/NRVs, etc) @ R1500
Add 0.75KW pump & controller @ ± R1750
Wiring @ ± R250
1 x Big Jim cut and fitted as pump cover (pool pump cover didn't fit my setup)
Add in-line filter @ R150
Add concrete pre-mix, rods/washers/nuts, etc @ R250
Came in at <R10K as I did a self install, no concrete/paving required for tanks, but a small slab cast just to mount pump (4 x 10mm threaded rods sunk into concrete)
(Replacement pump controller *)

1. Ensure that you have a NRV between municipal supply and your system!*
(To prevent that ever happening again: a) I fitted a NRV just after municipal water meter AND b) relocated the electricity socket from the outside wall of my bedroom to the inside (to switch pump off when not in use) - lesson learnt!
2. Ensure that every tank has it's own valve so that it can be isolated from the system when needed, eg: to be cleaned
3. Install an in-line filter BEFORE the pump to eliminate as much particles as possible entering the pump
4. Install NRV just before pipe enters house plumbing (to maintain pressure in household)
5. Become WATER-WISE, 'cause whatever capacity you have planned and installed YOU WILL RUN OUT!

Bar the one pump controller replacement issue this system had been performing flawlessly since then and carried my household through a prolonged (±10 years) drought where NO municipal water was used **.

* I found out the hard way when some idjit from the monkeypality found my meter "not registering" any water consumption and opened the supply valve - municipal pressure must have dipped to below my pump's rated pressure (8 bar) a few times and burnt out my pump controller.
** My household: Me, wife and a nephew that used to visit over during the whole festive season

Thanks for the write up.

For my pump base, I bought a slab at the locals build it. No issues so far, about 6/7 years. Got pump plastic cover from Plastic for Africa.

My lessons learnt for others:
When I first started my process, the hardware guys told me to buy black irrigation pipe. Dont. It is prone to leaking, clamps rusting etc. Rather buy the blue pipes and pvc weld all pipes and fittings.

Pump: Get a pump controller: https://www.adendorff.co.za/vega-automatic-pump-pressure-switch-hpumpp006

Any pump bigger than 0.75kw should work:
I have a Metabo 900w and 2 Metabo 450w, they were cheaper than my previous DABs, and as lasted longer than all 3 my dabs pumps and still going strong. Same ground water.

By using the pump controller, if you open the tap, the pump switch on and with no leaks, your pumps dony cycle on and off.

900w pump, wellpoint, controlled by a float switch in my first 1890lt tank. All 4 tanks are on normal sand that I compacted by hand tools. No issues now about 6/7 years.

Tanks supply two 450w pumps.

Pump 1: controlled by orbit irrigation controller, via a relay. For watering my garden.

Pump 2: controlled by automatic pump pressure switch controller. Open a tap, it switches on the pump. Currently only used for laundry/washing machine and a hosepipe.

DAB, not sure what went wrong all 3 literally disintergrated. I had a 750w and 2 450w. Outside under the same plastic pump covers, connected in the same way.

Between 2-3 years of use, 1 pump after the other broke into pieces. Replace with metabos, which I have now owned longer than I owned the DABs, no issues so far.

 

[soulie]

Any performance issues? , I can't justify paying that much for the dab if the JoJo does a similar job

look at Metabo as well ,high flowrate .install a pressure tank ,bigger than 8 litres it saves on stop start ,both pumps you mentioned are good ,vsd is good from a performance aspect but electronics can be troublesome .cant really recommend any pump ,mine is 5 years old permanently connected ,was the cheapest 0,37 kw unit i could find ,has never skipped a beat,edit my neighbour,also permanently on water tank has an Adendorf unit ,2 years now ,no issues either ,other neighbour has one from Mica also no issues ,his one isnt even enclosed .