Compared
Ground vs. elevated storage tank
Ground and elevated storage tanks both hold treated water but do different jobs. A ground storage tank sits at grade and mainly holds volume, usually paired with pumps to feed the system. An elevated tank sits up high, so its water column adds pressure to the distribution system without a pump running.
Last reviewed 2026-08-04
| Ground storage | Elevated storage | |
|---|---|---|
| Height | At ground level | Raised on a tower or hill |
| Main job | Store volume | Add pressure and store |
| Pressure | Little on its own | Its height pressurizes the system |
| Needs pumps? | Usually, to feed the system | Not just to hold pressure |
The bottom line
Ground tanks store volume and lean on pumps for pressure; elevated tanks use their height to pressurize the system.
Common questions
- How does an elevated tank make pressure?
- Its raised water column pushes pressure into the mains without a pump running.
- What is a ground storage tank for?
- Mainly holding volume, usually paired with pumps to move water into the system.
- What controls the tank level?
- Level controls, often an altitude valve, stop the inflow before the tank overflows.