Whether you’ve recently moved into a home with a water storage tank or you’ve used one for years, you know that it takes a lot of work to keep them clean and operational. Older water tanks require extra maintenance and care, and you should establish a relationship with a water tank expert to be sure that your water is safe to drink. Underground tanks should last several decades, but this can vary depending on the environment and the quality of the tank’s construction. Here are a few ways to keep your tank running, no matter how old it is.
Install a Water Treatment Tank Lining
All potable water tanks require a protective liner to keep you healthy. If you have an older water tank or you think you may have experienced a breach (see below), an industrial tank liner can help. You should always look for custom linings that fit the exact dimensions of your tank. While concrete water tank liners are among the most popular, chromium plating and electroless nickel tank liners are also available. Be sure to look for water treatment tank lining specifically for potable water as opposed to septic systems or gas tanks.
Watch out for Trees and Roots
Watch out for Trees and Roots
You may not think about it, but your home and water tank is a good source of water and nutrients for nearby tree roots. In older neighborhoods, root invasion is especially common. If you’re noticing low water pressure, unexpected clogs, strange sounds coming from your pipes, or other strange changes in your water, a tree or tree root could be the culprit. Be sure to remove any trees from the area around your water tank, and ask an expert about fixing the leak.
Have it Inspected Regularly
Experts recommend having your water tank inspected by an industry professional every few years. You should plan to have them wash out the tank every few years, but if you like in an area with lots of sediment, it may need to be cleaned annually, either by draining the tank completely or by using a remote operated vehicle.
When in doubt, always bring in an industry professional to give a second opinion. Never take a chance with your own drinking water: it’s the most important utility in your home.
