Why are there water towers on buildings in New York?
As New Yorkers reached for the skies in the 1800’s, water towers became an intricate part of the buildings’ framework. As buildings grew taller than 6 stories, the main water infrastructure couldn’t handle the water pressure. Water towers were needed to move water safely to the 7th floor and above.
Does NYC have water towers?
New York City’s skyline is dotted with wooden water towers that are easy to mistake for vanishing relics of the bygone eras of seltzer bottles and street gas lamps. But what many New Yorkers don’t realize is the towers are hardly antiques — in fact, most drink and bathe from the water stored in them every day.
What does a water tower actually do?
The primary function of water towers is to pressurize water for distribution. Elevating the water high above the pipes that distribute it throughout the surrounding building or community ensures that hydrostatic pressure, driven by gravity, forces the water down and through the system.
Why are there water tanks on top of buildings in NYC?
Tanks were placed on rooftops because the local water pressure was too weak to raise water to upper levels. When construction started to grow taller, the city required that buildings with six or more stories be equipped with a rooftop tank with a pump. About 5,000 to 10,000 gallons of water can be stored in the tanks.
Does water in water towers freeze?
It’s rare for a water tower to freeze over, even during the coldest winter months. There are methods to prevent such a hardship, as well as other ways to guard against any hazardous winter weather.
Does the Empire State Building have a water tower?
Unlike most tall New York City buildings, the Empire State Building’s water tanks are inside the building rather than on the roof.
Why does having a water tower near your home affect your insurance rate?
Another interesting fact about water towers – they can affect your insurance rates. During a fire, the water demand increases significantly and may greatly exceed the capacity of the pumps at the water plant. A water tower guarantees that there will be enough pressure to keep water flowing through the fire hydrants.