If you’ve installed a rainwater tank, a good pump is often the key to making that water useful. Whether you want to flush toilets, run your washing machine, or water the garden, a pump provides the pressure needed to move water where it’s required.
This guide explains the main types of rainwater tank pumps, what to consider when choosing one, and which models we recommend.
Why You Need a Pump
Rainwater tanks store water at ground level, so gravity alone is not enough to deliver the pressure needed for household or garden use. A pump ensures:
- Consistent pressure for taps, appliances, and irrigation
- Reliable flow across single or multiple outlets
- Convenience so using tank water feels no different to mains water
Main Types of Rainwater Tank Pumps
External Jet Pumps
Jet pumps are mounted beside the tank. They are reliable, easy to access, and well suited to single-storey homes and garden watering.
- Recommended model: REEFE PRJ Series — robust jet pumps designed for everyday domestic use.
External Multistage Pumps
Multistage pumps use several impellers to generate higher pressure, making them ideal for larger homes, multi-storey properties, or long pipe runs.
- Recommended model: REEFE PRM Series — efficient multistage pumps delivering strong, steady pressure for demanding households.
Submersible Pumps
Submersible pumps sit inside the tank itself, keeping them quiet and out of sight. They are popular where space is limited or where reduced pump noise is preferred.
- Recommended models:
- REEFE RPS Series — reliable submersible pumps for domestic tank supply.
- ClayTech submersible range — quality pumps designed for durability in submerged operation.
Rain-to-Mains Systems
A Rain-to-Mains system automatically switches between tank water and mains water when the tank runs dry, ensuring your home never runs out of supply.
Mechanical Rain-to-Mains Devices
REEFE RainPro® Device
REEFE supply their own RainPro® valve with some RM systems, such as the RM6000-3. These units are:
- Simple and cable-free — no float, no solenoid, no electronics
- Easy to install — often supplied with flexible hoses and pump cover
- Application-specific — best suited to flooded suction setups supplying laundry and toilets only
The RainPro® device is a practical choice for limited applications, but not intended for whole-house supply.
The Aquasaver Advantage
The Aquasaver device is widely regarded as the leading Rain-to-Mains valve in Australia. Unlike electronic controllers, it is a purely mechanical system, offering:
- Automatic, reliable switching between rainwater and mains
- No electronics to fail — simple design that lasts
- Versatility — suitable for most pressure pump systems, from small domestic setups to whole-house supply
- Industry standard — trusted by plumbers for long-term reliability
Because of its broader suitability, we recommend installing an Aquasaver device wherever Rain-to-Mains function is required, unless your application is specifically suited to a RainPro® system.
Recommended Options
- REEFE RM Systems — available with either RainPro® or Aquasaver devices. Always check the product details, as not all include Aquasaver.
- Custom Setup — pair a REEFE or ClayTech pump with an Aquasaver device for dependable whole-house supply.
Other Brands to Consider
Alongside REEFE, ClayTech Inox series pumps are a strong option. These stainless steel external pumps are corrosion resistant, energy efficient, and designed for long life.
ClayTech also offers submersible models that are a dependable alternative where a tank-internal pump is preferred.
How to Choose the Right Pump
When selecting a rainwater tank pump, consider:
- Application: Will it be for garden use only, or whole-house supply?
- Water demand: How many outlets or appliances may run at the same time?
- Noise: Do you prefer an external pump or a quieter submersible?
- Space: Do you have room beside the tank, or is an internal pump more practical?
- Backup: Do you require a Rain-to-Mains system for uninterrupted supply?
Final Thoughts
The right pump ensures your rainwater tank is not just a storage vessel but a reliable water source for your home and garden.
- For straightforward garden and domestic use, choose a REEFE PRJ jet pump.
- For higher pressure or larger homes, step up to a REEFE PRM multistage pump.
- For quiet operation inside the tank, go with a REEFE RPS or ClayTech submersible pump.
- For automatic mains backup, select a mechanical Rain-to-Mains device, with the Aquasaver being the most versatile choice.
At Water Pumps Direct, we stock all of these options and more, backed by expert advice and manufacturer support.