If you live in a rural area without a reticulated water supply, you may need to have water delivered to your property by truck. This is called carted water, and it can be an expensive way to get water, especially if you need a large volume regularly.
This guide explains what carted water costs, how the cost is calculated, and why understanding the cost can help you size your rainwater tank appropriately.
What carted water is
Carted water is water that is delivered to your property by a water carrier in a truck or tanker. The water is typically sourced from a bore, a dam, or a municipal supply, and is delivered to a tank or container on your property.
Carted water is commonly used in rural areas where there is no reticulated water supply, or where the reticulated supply is unreliable or insufficient. It can be used for a variety of purposes, including:
- Drinking and cooking — if the water is of suitable quality.
- Washing and cleaning — for household use.
- Garden irrigation — for watering plants and lawns.
- Livestock — for watering animals.
The quality of carted water varies depending on the source. Some carriers provide water that is suitable for drinking, while others provide water that is only suitable for non-potable uses. If you are using carted water for drinking, you should have it tested to make sure it is safe.
How the cost is calculated
The cost of carted water depends on several factors:
- The volume of water delivered — the more water you need, the more it costs.
- The distance the water is transported — the farther the water has to travel, the more it costs.
- The frequency of delivery — if you need water delivered regularly, the cost will be higher than if you only need it occasionally.
- The type of water — water that is suitable for drinking may cost more than water that is only suitable for non-potable uses.
- The supplier — different carriers charge different rates, so it is worth getting quotes from several suppliers.
The cost is typically quoted as a price per kilolitre (kL) or per thousand litres. The price can vary significantly depending on the factors above, so it is worth getting quotes from several suppliers to compare.
VERIFY: the typical cost per kilolitre of carted water in New Zealand, and whether the price varies significantly by region or distance — check two or three water carriers in your area for current pricing before stating a specific figure.
As a general rule, carted water is more expensive than reticulated water or rainwater, especially if you need a large volume regularly. The cost can add up quickly, which is why many rural households invest in a rainwater tank to reduce their reliance on carted water.
Why carted water costs make tank sizing concrete
If you are considering installing a rainwater tank, one of the most compelling reasons is the cost of carted water. By understanding how much it costs to have water delivered, you can work out how much you could save by collecting your own rainwater.
Here is a simple way to think about it:
- Work out how much water you use — estimate your household water usage in kilolitres per month. This includes water for drinking, cooking, washing, and any other uses.
- Work out the cost of carted water — get a quote from a water carrier for the volume of water you use per month. This will give you a monthly cost.
- Work out the cost of a rainwater tank — get quotes for a rainwater tank that is large enough to meet your water needs. This will give you a one-off installation cost.
- Compare the costs — work out how long it would take for the savings from rainwater to offset the cost of the tank. This is the payback period.
If the payback period is reasonable, a rainwater tank may be a good investment. If the payback period is long, you may want to consider a smaller tank or a different approach.
Factors that affect the cost of carted water
Several factors can affect the cost of carted water, and it is worth considering them when you are getting quotes:
- Distance — the farther the water has to travel, the more it costs. If you live in a remote area, the cost of carted water will be higher than if you live closer to a water source.
- Volume — the more water you need, the more it costs. If you have a large household or use a lot of water for irrigation, the cost will be higher.
- Frequency — if you need water delivered regularly, the cost will be higher than if you only need it occasionally. Some carriers offer discounts for regular deliveries, so it is worth asking.
- Season — in dry seasons, demand for carted water may be higher, which can drive up the price. In wet seasons, the price may be lower.
- Access — if your property is difficult to access, the cost of delivering water may be higher. Some carriers charge extra for difficult access.
When you are getting quotes, make sure you ask about all of these factors and how they affect the price. This will help you get an accurate estimate of the cost of carted water for your property.
Alternatives to carted water
If the cost of carted water is too high, there are several alternatives you can consider:
- Rainwater harvesting — collect rainwater from your roof and store it in a tank. This can be a cost-effective way to reduce your reliance on carted water, especially if you live in an area with reasonable rainfall.
- Bore water — if you have access to a bore, you may be able to use bore water for some of your needs. Bore water can be cheaper than carted water, but it may need treatment before it is safe to drink.
- Greywater recycling — reuse water from your washing machine, shower, or sink for garden irrigation or toilet flushing. This can reduce your overall water usage and your reliance on carted water.
- Water conservation — reduce your water usage by fixing leaks, installing water-efficient fixtures, and changing your habits. This can reduce the volume of water you need and lower your costs.
Each of these alternatives has its own costs and benefits, and the right choice depends on your specific situation. If you are unsure, ask a plumber or a water specialist for advice.
Summary
- Carted water is water that is delivered to your property by truck.
- The cost of carted water depends on the volume, distance, frequency, type of water, and supplier.
- Carted water is typically more expensive than reticulated water or rainwater, especially if you need a large volume regularly.
- Understanding the cost of carted water can help you size your rainwater tank appropriately and work out the payback period.
- There are several alternatives to carted water, including rainwater harvesting, bore water, greywater recycling, and water conservation.