A water tower is an elevated structure supporting a water tank constructed at a height sufficient to pressurize a distribution system for potable water, and to provide emergency storage for fire protection. Water towers often operate in conjunction with underground or surface service reservoirs, which store treated water close to where it will be used. Other types of water towers may only store raw (non-potable) water for fire protection or industrial purposes, and may not necessarily be connected to a public water supply.
Water tower with cellular tower on top in Mauston, Wisconsin
Beaumont St. Louis and San Francisco Railroad Water Tank (1875, restored 2012), Beaumont, Kansas, US
Shooter's Hill water tower is a local landmark in London, United Kingdom. Water towers are common around London suburbs.
Ross Barnett Reservoir water tower in Mississippi, an example of an older design of water tower
A water tank is a container for storing water, for many applications, drinking water, irrigation, fire suppression, farming, both for plants and livestock, chemical manufacturing, food preparation as well as many other uses. Water tank parameters include the general design of the tank, and choice of construction materials, linings. Various materials are used for making a water tank: plastics, fiberglass, concrete, stone, steel. Earthen pots, such as matki used in South Asia, can also be used for water storage. Water tanks are an efficient way to help developing countries to store clean water.
Water tank used in municipal water treatment plant in Houston, Texas
Water tank from 1876 in Hanover, Germany
Derelict water tank near the Boorowa railway line, Galong,Australia
Stone water tank in a castle courtyard, Saxony, Germany