Water tanks are a key component of any drinking water supply system and it is important to ensure that they are kept clean and disinfected. As with most equipment and working systems, tank cleaning is generally recommended on a regular basis to reduce risk of bacterial contamination and damage to infrastructure.
When water tanks are cleaned, they are scrubbed and disinfected to remove harmful bacteria and other impurities that can compromise the quality of the water. The frequency of cleaning a water tank can depend on its location, usage and environmental conditions. Certain signs indicate that it is time for a tank to be cleaned, including foul odors or tastes, sediment or silt in the water and discoloration.
First, the water tank must be drained completely. This is done by opening the outlet valve or tap at the base of the tank and connecting a hose to allow the water to flow out freely. Permanent water tanks often have a washout valve that can be used to drain the tank without opening the outlet valve or tap. This is a much safer and quicker way to drain the tank.
Once the tank is empty, it should be scrubbed with soapy water and a non-metallic brush. Power washers are often utilised for this step as they are highly effective at reaching into the nooks and crannies of large volume tanks.
Scrubbing can also include the use of a hard-bristled brush or mop with an adjustable handle that is attached to a hose pipe. For larger volumes, a specialised tool such as high pressure jetting may be needed to break up and remove rust and scale. water tank cleaners