Choosing a Water Tank Material: Plastic, Stainless Steel or Concrete
Quick answer: Plastic tanks are the cheapest and most common for homes and farms. Stainless steel tanks cost more but are the hygienic choice for treated drinking water, refill shops, food and dairy. Concrete tanks suit very large, permanent storage built on site. Choose by what the water is for, the volume and the budget.
Key facts
- Plastic: cheapest, homes and farms
- Stainless: treated water, food and dairy
- Concrete: large permanent storage
- Shade and clean all tanks regularly
On this page
Comparison
| Plastic | Stainless steel | Concrete | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lowest | Highest | Varies; built on site |
| Hygiene | Good when kept shaded and clean | Best: smooth, easy to clean | Needs proper lining and cleaning |
| Best for | Homes, farms, rainwater | Treated drinking water, refill shops, dairies | Large institutional or farm storage |
| Moving it | Easy | Possible | Permanent |
Plastic Tanks
| Product | Price |
|---|---|
| 500l Reliance water storage tank | KSh 5,500 |
| 1000L Reliance Loft Tank – No More Water Shortages! | KSh 12,500 |
| 1500L Water storage tank | KSh 11,500 |
| 2000L Water storage tank | KSh 16,500 |
| 3000L Water storage tank | KSh 24,000 |
| 4000L Water storage tank | KSh 27,500 |
| 5000L Reliance Water storage tank | KSh 36,500 |
| 10,000Ltrs Water Storage Tank | KSh 68,000 |
Current listed prices incl. VAT (updated 5 October 2026).
Stainless Steel Tanks
| Product | Price |
|---|---|
| 50 liters stainless tank | KSh 7,000 |
| H-TECH Stainless Treatment Tank Range | KSh 23,200 |
Current listed prices incl. VAT (updated 5 October 2026).
Grade matters for food contact: 201 vs 304 vs 316.
Whichever You Choose
- Keep tanks covered and out of direct sun where possible.
- Clean and disinfect them regularly: tank cleaning.
- Size them for your needs: tank size calculator.
Watch: Fabrication and components
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, a plastic or stainless steel water tank?
Plastic is cheaper for general storage; stainless is better for treated drinking water, food and dairy.
Are plastic water tanks safe for drinking water?
Yes when they are food-grade, covered, shaded and cleaned regularly.
When should I build a concrete tank?
For very large, permanent storage on a site that suits construction.