Why is regular water tank cleaning necessary?

Is water tank cleaning really necessary?

Cleaning is an important part of general water tank maintenance. Regular water tank cleaning provides an opportunity to inspect the overall condition of the tank, the inlet and overflow strainers, and the catchment area.

Regular cleaning is also necessary to remove accumulated sludge and sediment from the bottom of the tank, consisting of windborne dust, animal and bird faeces, rotting leaves and blossoms, decaying animal material, and other dirt that settles on the tank floor.

Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining water quality and protecting the health of you and your family. So, let’s learn more about water tanks, why they need to be cleaned regularly, and the methods used by professionals.

Common construction materials

Water tanks are made using a variety of materials, all of which have their advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a look at the most common construction materials for water tanks.

1. Plastic tanks are made from food-grade polyethylene that is certified safe for drinking water according to strict Australian Standards and they are the most common. They are relatively inexpensive, lightweight, easy to clean, and unlikely to corrode.
2. Concrete is a heavy-duty building material, not subject to rust, unlikely to corrode, easy to maintain, ridiculously strong, and fire resistant. Concrete tanks can be constructed on-site, making larger volume tanks possible as well as installation below ground. New concrete tanks generally raise the PH levels of water, which is not really an issue but worth noting.
3. Fibreglass water tanks are super lightweight and generally easier to install than heavier tanks. They are manufactured with a food-grade coating on the inside to comply with strict Australian Standards. Fibreglass is also easy to repair and maintain.
4. Stainless Steel is a fantastic material for water tank construction. It is easy to clean and maintain and is resistant to corrosion and rust. The downside of Stainless-Steel tanks (for most people) is the price. They are one of the most expensive options.
5. Steel is strong and hard-wearing. It is a heavy-duty construction material perfect for harsh conditions, especially in areas where the possibility of fires exists. Steel water tanks are given a rust-resistant coating, such as Zincalume or Aquaplate.

Although there are many different styles and construction materials, all water tanks are subject to contamination. Regular cleaning is essential for the health of your family and you. So why do water tanks need to be cleaned?

A lot can go wrong

Water is our most precious natural resource and something we can easily take for granted. It is important to understand that your water tank basically collects and stores everything that has come off your roof. There lies the potential for chemical, physical, and microbiological contamination.

Your water tank is a cool, dark, damp environment, a perfect breeding ground for microorganisms to grow. To add to this, all of that silt and dirt buildup can prevent your filtration system from working properly. Do you know what you are drinking?

Your water tank is also subject to a long list of other contaminants. Dirt and silt accumulate in your tank over time. Not only does this make your water unfit for consumption, but it also becomes unsuitable for everyday uses including food preparation and even bathing.

You can’t afford to be complacent

Consuming contaminated water can cause very real and serious diseases, ranging from diarrhea to lead poisoning. Anyone who has had Giardia or Cryptosporidium can attest to the unpleasant effects of drinking contaminated water. It is also worth noting that your water filtration system may be ineffective against water that is highly contaminated with dirt, silt, tannins, mould, and pathogens.

It is crucial to ensure that professional water tank cleaning is carried out regularly. It needs to be a routine part of the general maintenance of your tank. Australian Standards recommend removing the accumulated sludge buildup every two to three years. You can find out more about this on the NSW Health website.

Why professional services are required

Of course, there is a lot you can do to maintain your tank. NSW Health and your local council provide guidance on the use and maintenance of water tanks. It is inevitable, however, that your tank will at some point need a professional clean. Ideally, that will be carried out by an experienced, professional water tank cleaning company.

What to expect during a service

Every service is a little bit unique based on the type and size of the tank and the level of contamination present in the water. There is a standard process though, and professional water tank cleaners are careful to follow it.

The process for safely and effectively cleaning a water tank

1. Before any cleaning takes place, the technician will assess the catchment through to storage, conducting a risk assessment before disconnecting the tank from any pumps. If the tank should be emptied, he may photograph the tank to document its condition.
2. Many tanks can be cleaned when full. This results in minimal water loss. In some instances, however, a complete emptying of the tank is required. This involves scrubbing down and washing the interior, before vacuuming the tank completely empty. An optional antibacterial treatment can be applied at this point.
3. Once the tank is clean it can be refilled. We have a working arrangement with several water carriers across the Northern Rivers, who will deliver straight after cleaning so as to minimise the time you are without water.

Water Sorter can help

If you live in the Northern Rivers District you can Contact Water Sorter for a quote or for more information. We would be happy to help.

Our service area often extends outside the district, so if you are not sure about our availability in your area, please call us. We are all about going the extra mile for our customers… literally.