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The storage facilities (ground level tanks and elevated tanks) in a water distribution system serve three main functions:

i) To balance peaks in the water demand.

ii) To provide emergency storage in case of pipe breakage or fire.

iii) To ensure specified residual pressures throughout the network at all times.

The placement and sizing of tanks in the network have to be done such that all three functions are fulfilled.

Characteristics of the water demand, sizes of pipes and pumps, as well as the level of reliability provided dictate the required capacities of storage facilities in the system. The balancing and emergency volumes of a tank are contained in the same structure. Emergency requirements are normally prescribed by water supply authorities and/or fire authorities. Balancing storage is dictated by the component sizes in the network, and the intensity and duration of peaks in the water demand.